The Ruins

"Wake up Jack!" Talia yelled. She gripped Jack's shoulders and shook him with all her might. Despite the relentless shaking, Jack was unresponsive and lost in the depth of slumber. The struggle to awaken him seemed to stretch on for an eternity, like a relentless tug-of-war between consciousness and the dream world, but Talia won't let go. Finally, Jack's consciousness came to him. His gazed blurring and his breath heavy. He tried to lift himself but his body was too weak. The magic had drained him, and although he couldn't remember what had happened vividly he felt like he had been dreaming.

"How long have I been sleeping?" he uttered. His words emerged hesitantly, as if each syllable was searching for a foothold. By this time, he was encompassed by Talia and her friends.

"Thank goodness you're awake". She responded nervously. Talia's eyelashes fluttered and her voice glitch with a confused look on her face as she stared at him. Talia was hesitant and she didn't have the courage to tell him the bad news.

"The enchantment must have been too powerful for your body, draining its magic and keeping you asleep for far too long." The god fairies offered to help at her silence.

"There's a great storm coming and your island is in danger." Talia said.

"What's going on…? Why are you all acting weird? Jack questioned as he slowly pulled himself up to sit straight on the rock. Everyone parted from his view and he lifted his eyes to notice that the crystal pearl that encased the dark energy was broken terribly. It had lost its energy and hot tar-like liquid dropped violently around it.

"Oh my gosh!" he exclaimed.

"This day was prophesied to come true. The dark Phoenix must be reborn while zapping a lot of energy to regenerate. If you have the strength, you must go now to save your village. The Crystal gives its energy to the pearls which saves your island. It's only a matter of time to spread, by then all pearls might lose their magic". Talia looked over at the crystal uncertainty then back at Jack who was regaining his strength.

The fairies conjured a magical meal for strength and gave Jack to eat. He just sat there, his gaze turning this way and that, with a bewildered look on his face. He had not expected such fate. He ate as much and as fast as he could with his mouth full at each bite.

"You must hurry before it's too late." Talia encouraged.

"But how can I get to my island on time?" he thought out loud. His strength came back to him as his stomach was getting fuller.

"I can open a portal to the shore. That way you can leave our island in a short time." Papi suggested. "But, I must tell you that's how far my magic can ever go."

The fairies began to tinkle, conveying their message to Talia. . "O, thank you tinkers." She responded warmly to the fairies' whispered guidance. "The fairies will command the four winds to sail you swiftly. Everyone is helping, Jack." She assured him, emphasizing the collective assistance they were receiving.

After Jack was done with his meal, he stood up with courage. He was going to miss everyone and this grieved him but he knew it was worth the experience.

Papi commenced the opening of a portal leading to the shores, utilizing his magic. Meanwhile, the fairies took to the air, swirling and weaving together in a magnificent display, conjuring a magical whirl of dust akin to a tornado. Drawing gusts of wind from all directions towards itself, the swirling vortex gained momentum until it subsided, leaving behind an animated breeze. This lively wind coursed swiftly through the rustling leaves, then gently embraced Jack, allowing him to perceive its presence. He floated for a brief moment in its embrace.

"It's tickling". He chuckled uncontrollably.

"Are you ready now?" Talia asked him, her gazes seemed to penetrate into his soul. A tear dropped as she reached out to hug Jack deeply. "I'm so sorry, you have to go. I wish there was a way you could stay longer."

"Don't you worry, we'll see again. It's our fate." Jack responded, letting go of Talia. His countenance was saddened as he walked through the portal to the shore. If it were a dream he wouldn't wish it to end but he had a responsibility to his island and must return home. Jack waved his goodbye and rushed to set sail to Valga. The wind glided his boat in speed. He looked behind him as the portal closed and Talia stuck her face in every possible way to see him for the last time. Jack gave a satisfying smile as he beheld her last moment.

After much thought, he soon felt a responsibility to his dying island. Jack had been away from home for too long. His father Waldorf was worried and restless. He had lost his wife in child bearing after a prolonged barrenness. His love for her made him give Jack special affection.

News of Jack's return spread rapidly throughout the entire village like a wildfire. As the cool evening settled in, a group of fishermen, preparing for the night by the river shore, caught sight of Jack's boat in the distance. Word spread swiftly, drawing the entire village to the shores in eager anticipation of his arrival.

As Jack disembarked from his boat, his eyes scanned the gathering crowd, brimming with excitement. Spotting his father among them, he dashed forward, his heart racing with joy. Without hesitation, he embraced his father tightly, the warmth of their reunion evident in their heartfelt hug.

Waldorf was an imposing figure, boasting a large and muscular physique that stretched the limits of his fleece attire, especially evident in his powerful forearms, biceps, and chest. His imposing stature was complemented by a thick, full beard that cascaded down his face, accentuating his brown-black eyes and tanned complexion. His deep, commanding voice instilled both respect and a hint of fear among the villagers.

Despite his intimidating appearance, Waldorf was a man of multifaceted character. He displayed courage, love, and genuine care for his people, with a special affection reserved for his only son, Jack. His understanding and love for Jack ran deep, ingrained in their shared bond. While he enjoyed indulging in wine and revelry, Waldorf never overlooked the importance of paying attention to crucial matters within the village.

"I thought I had lost you too," Waldorf's voice quivered, a tear tracing its path down his weathered cheeks.

"I'm here now, Papa," Jack reassured him, offering comfort in their emotional reunion.

Waldorf faced the assembled crowd, addressing them with a solemn tone. "A few days ago, my son embarked on the path of our ancestors—a journey many of us have undertaken. Each of us carries our own tale," he spoke with reverence.

A voice from the crowd erupted joyfully, exclaiming, "Hell yeah!" The sentiment echoed among the gathered villagers, resonating with nods and affirmations from the crowd.

"Our land is in need of healing, and today, my son has shown great bravery," Waldorf announced proudly, lifting a bag of pearls for all to see. "He has made us proud by returning successfully with the Doom's Pearls," he proclaimed to the gathered villagers.

"To his return, let us drink and revel!" Waldorf proclaimed, signaling the start of the celebratory moment among the villagers. Cheers erupted joyfully among the villagers at Jack's return and Waldorf's announcement. The villagers hailed with jubilation, acknowledging Jack's achievement. Jack was met with numerous greetings and congratulations from those eager to celebrate his triumphant return.

Later the Valga people gathered to initiate Jack into adulthood, a time-honored tradition. The ritual included the elderly priestess, leaning on her walking stick, offering blessings to Jack. Surrounding him by the campfire, a group of young men chanted sacred words, while villagers observed. The priestess marked his cheeks with charcoal paste, and afterwards, Jack ascended the gentle hill to place the pearls into the spring at its summit.

As the night descended, the town hall glowed with warmth, ready to host the evening's feast. The townspeople had taken their seats, surrounded by finely arranged tables adorned with an array of food and a variety of wines.

Jack occupied a seat beside his father at the round table dinner. Amidst the lively chatter and laughter that filled the air, Jack appeared disinterested, a demeanor that didn't escape his father's notice.

Waldorf rose from his seat, eliciting praise and applause from the gathered crowd. "Thank you, everyone," he acknowledged graciously. "There was a time when fear gripped my heart during this journey. I prayed to the gods, and they safely returned my son to me," he confessed, gratitude evident in his words. "Today, he has proven himself a man among us all. Like many before him, he will now share his tale with us," Waldorf announced, ushering in a moment for Jack to recount his journey to the attentive audience.

Waldorf turned towards his son, offering words of encouragement in a reassuring whisper. "What is it, son? It's okay, even if it's frightening. You just have to share something. Trust me; we've all had our share of experiences. It's your turn now. It's our custom," Waldorf encouraged Jack, trying to uplift his spirits.

Jack, overwhelmed by the weight of what he knew, felt compelled to reveal what lay ahead. The burden was too great to bear in silence, and he realized he had to disclose what was to come to the assembled villagers.

Jack cast his gaze upward, avoiding direct eye contact, his mind filled with turmoil and haunted by a looming nightmare. Jack proceeded to recount his harrowing experience to the gathered group, sharing his story with them. His tale started with a wonderful adventure but when he told them what Talia had said and the danger coming, the people became frightened and murmured in disbelief. "There's something else on that island, a dark force that's sapping the magic from the pearls. Our island is slowly losing its magic, and it's fading away," he muttered, his voice filled with trepidation.

"Impossible… The pearls have never failed us." Someone retorted. The people concurred amongst themselves.

Jack's tale provoked uproar from the people. Waldorf saw that fear, uncertainty and panic arose among the people. He stood up to clear the air and the people quieted. "We all know our island is dying and how we've sustained it from the darkness all these years, without the pearl's magic our island will crumble. What if his tale is true? We must seek a solution as we always have. Let's hear him out". He becked Jack to continue.

"If we must survive, then we have to flee far away from this island. A storm is coming and will wash up every island in its path.

"Go where exactly?" the people murmured again. "You mean we leave our homes of many generations? Besides, how are we supposed to do that?" One of them asked.

"We can build new ships large enough to contain all of us and our goods." Jack suggested.

Waldorf had known better. He knew this day would come but little did you know it'll happen in his reign. He addressed the people in a low deep tone. "The island did not make us who we are, Valga is the people and our ways of life. We've managed to keep the island in one piece till this day. As long as we all survive, there's hope for Valga and whatever island we find out there we'll become our new home. So now, we'll start construction at once. Tonight, we'd disperse to rest and think about what we've heard today."

In the aftermath of Jack's unsettling tale, a heavy silence hung over the gathering of the Valga people. Doubt and fear had clouded their minds, and many regarded Jack's words with suspicion. They couldn't easily accept the notion of their idyllic island crumbling into oblivion.

As the gathering slowly dispersed, the people of Valga retreated to their homes, forming small groups along the way. Conversations were hushed, and there was an air of uncertainty among them, for Jack's story had cast a shadow of doubt over their peaceful island.

Amidst the departing crowd, Waldorf, the village chief, stayed behind to attend to some of the senior members. He listened to their concerns, his demeanor exuding a sense of wisdom and reassurance.

Jack, with a heavy heart, looked around for his friend, Arad, who had been his childhood companion. Arad appeared beside him, offering a reassuring presence. Together, they walked home.

Arad recognized the torment in Jack's eyes. Knowing his friend needed reassurance, he consoled him quietly.

"Jack," Arad said, placing a comforting hand on Jack's shoulder, "I can see it was hard for them to believe. What you said there was just strange unlike any tale ever told. But what you did was brave, my friend. Sharing your story was the first step. We'll find a way to face this challenge, together. Fear won't control us."

"I feel like I failed everyone, why in my time? Our island would be no more. Maybe I should never have gone there." Jacked sobbed.

"No, don't blame any of these on yourself." Arad comforted quickly. "It's not your fault or anyone else's. Our island was dying anyway. Once the ships are ready there'll be hope."

Jack nodded in gratitude for Arad's unwavering support. As they approached Jack's home, he turned to his friend and pulled him into a heartfelt embrace. "I'll see you tomorrow. Goodnight," Jack said, his voice filled with appreciation.

Their friendship had always been a source of strength and comfort, and now, as the island faced an uncertain future, their bond would be pivotal in confronting the challenges that lay ahead. With a final pat on the back, Arad bid his friend goodnight, and they both entered their respective homes, ready to face the unknown.

Jack's home was a modest, ancient house that had stood the test of time. The walls bore the scars of years gone by, their faded colors hinting at past memories. The thatched roof was adorned with vines, adding a touch of nature to the dwelling. Inside, the main room served as the heart of the house, with a simple wooden table and chairs, a hearth that had seen countless fires, and a small, tattered rug that had worn thin over the years.

Waldorf sat alone in the dimly lit chamber, his weathered hands resting on a heavy wooden table. Before him lay a meticulously detailed map, its parchment edges curled from years of use. His old eyes studied the lines and symbols that covered the map, tracing the paths of journeys past and potential paths that could save their island.

The flickering flames from the hearth danced across the map's surface, casting long shadows that played tricks with the cartographic landscape. Waldorf's gaze was steady and contemplative, deep in thought. The map held the knowledge of their ancestors, a testament to the traditions and wisdom of the Valga people.

As he traced his fingers along the map's contours, he muttered words to himself, a silent conversation with the past. He knew that time was running short, and the answers to their problems might be hidden within these intricate lines and symbols.

Jack lay on a creaky bed in one corner of the room. The morning sun peeked through a small window, casting warm, golden rays across the room, illuminating motes of dust that danced in the air. The worn wooden beams and aged furnishings gave the home a cozy and timeless feel.

As the sunlight gradually filled the room, Jack's father, a rugged and wise figure, entered. His footsteps echoed in the silence of the room. He approached his son, standing at the bedside. "Jack," he called gently, his voice carrying the weight of years and the wisdom of a village chief.

Jack meandered in the realms of slumber, not yet fully ready to face the day. His father leaned down closer, his shadow casting a protective veil over his son. "Jack, it's time to wake up," he whispered, his warm breath brushing against Jack's ear. "The island needs us today. We have work to do."

Jack stirred, feeling the presence of his father. He turned to face him, his sleep-laden eyes blinking into consciousness. "I'm awake, Father," he mumbled, his voice laden with sleepiness.

His father smiled, a mixture of love and responsibility in his eyes. "Good," he replied. "The island is counting on us, Jack. You need to come with me, I have something I want to show you."

As Jack and his father approached the rocky mountain, the weight of their ancestors' legacy bore down on them. The path was well-trodden, a trail they'd journeyed countless times, yet today felt different. Jack's curiosity mingled with fatigue, and he questioned their destination.

"Why are we going to the mountain?" Jack asked his father, his voice tinged with a hint of exhaustion.

Waldorf, his father, cast a knowing glance at his son, his eyes reflecting both determination and hope. "Our ancestors built a cave on this mountain. It has the answers we need."

Jack's skepticism was evident as he responded, "Really? I think we've been through this path countless times. I don't think it's still there. And I'm tired already."

Waldorf, however, remained unwavering. He encouraged Jack to continue with just a few more steps, promising they were almost there. They climbed a bit further, the rocky terrain underfoot, until they reached what appeared to be a massive wall of rocks arranged intricately.

Jack questioned his father, "Why are we stopping?"

Waldorf stood before the rocky formation, his expression serious. "We've reached it."

Perplexed, Jack observed the rocky formation, still uncertain. "This is not a cave."

Waldorf smiled and explained, "Patience, son. This is the doorway." He placed his hands on the rocky surface, his eyes darkening as he channeled his latent magic. With the power of their bloodline and the ancient knowledge he possessed, he triggered the magic within him. The rocks began to shift and rearrange themselves, and the door opened before them.

Jack was both surprised and amazed, and he asked, "You have magic? I figured out mine myself."

Waldorf responded with a hint of regret in his voice, "I'm sorry that I let you figure it out on your own. I did think to tell you sooner. We are more like vessels. The magic is dormant until it comes in contact with a force of magic. It's been passed on from our bloodline through many generations."

Understanding the profound connection between them, Jack replied, "It's okay, Dad. Since you say this cave has answers, we'd better hurry inside before the doors are shut."

Waldorf nodded, and together, they entered the mysterious cave, ready to seek the answers their ancestors had hidden within its depths.

The cave's interior was illuminated by sparkling emeralds and luminous crystals embedded in the walls. Yet, despite this ethereal glow, there was a faint but eerie luminescence originating from a damp, shadowy spot on the cave's wet floor.

"It's damp in here," Jack observed, his voice echoing softly within the cavern.

"Yeah, but look out for the stalactites," Waldorf warned, casting a watchful eye at the sharp, descending formations above.

As they ventured deeper into the cave, they encountered a breathtaking sight. Enormous stalactites hung from the cave's ceiling, and crystal-clear stalagmites rose from the ground. The cave's mysteries unfolded before Jack, and his thoughts drifted, filled with fragmented memories from the Island of Doom.

Waldorf led the way, guiding Jack into a narrow opening in the cave wall. It was a tight squeeze, especially for Waldorf, who had to force his massive frame through. On the other side, they were met with a brilliant light, filtering through large cracks in the cave walls.

Before them lay a small pool of water, and the central focus of the chamber was a colossal stalactite. Its needle-like tip connected to a corresponding stalagmite, and countless pearls adorned the length of their connection. Over time, the once crystal-clear formation had darkened, save for a faint icy green luminescence at its peak. This majestic sight hinted at the answers they sought, hidden within the depths of this ancient cave.

"Oh no... It's really happening," Waldorf exclaimed, his voice tinged with a mixture of anxiety and despair. Jack, too, stared in silence at the enigmatic object, attempting to process the gravity of their discovery.

"The island is truly going to crumble. We don't have much time left to save it," Waldorf continued, his tone laden with urgency.

"How much time do we have?" Jack asked, his concern growing.

"From the signs, I'd say less than a month," Waldorf replied, his eyes wide with the realization of the impending catastrophe, creases forming on his forehead.

"Then we must start construction of ships at once. We can rally our men and get it done in 15 to 17 days. We have the best shipbuilders in Valga," Jack suggested, already formulating a plan.

As Jack's gaze wandered through the cave, he stumbled upon an ancient shell. Its familiarity struck him as he picked it up and examined it more closely.

"That's strange," he remarked, drawing his father's attention away from their grim findings. He handed the shell to Waldorf, who inspected it carefully.

"I might know of this sea shell," Waldorf began, his tone contemplative. "It's rare and was a gift to our first ancestor. Our ancestors believed that when blown, it granted whoever was worthy the ability to summon the sea goddess. Only the purest of heart were ever deemed worthy. I don't think any of us are worthy enough. Sometimes, I wonder if those tales were even true," he added with a hint of skepticism.

"Can I keep it, Dad?" Jack requested, his heart touched by the sentiment behind the artifact.

"Sure, you can have it, son. Always remember in your heart that a good chieftain must look out for his own people, or there'll be nothing left for him to be chief over," Waldorf advised, his eyes brimming with paternal pride. "And that's a true responsibility, of which I'm sure you'll prove worthy someday."

"Let's get out of here. I know of a shortcut. Follow me," Waldorf suggested, leading the way out of the ancient cave.

…

Shipbuilding was in full swing, with the resilient oak ships rapidly taking shape. The efforts were relentless, and within a few days, six large ships stood as beacons of hope. The people of Valga, united by a common purpose, diligently played their roles in constructing, loading goods, and preparing the vessels for departure.

Chief Waldorf had wisely ordered the ship construction at the hilly top, ensuring a safer distance from the unpredictable sea. As the 21st day dawned, and the loading of the final ship neared completion, an unexpected development sent shockwaves through the island. Two watchmen stationed at the shore to monitor the sea's changes came running towards Waldorf, their faces etched with anxiety.

"We've seen the sea ripple violently and swirl rapidly afar," one of them panted heavily as he relayed the alarming observations. "As we were still observing, it shot a massive mass of water into the sky. The sea remains unstable as I speak."

Chief Waldorf wasted no time. "It's started! Everyone, get to the ships at once! Board the ships now!" he bellowed, his voice resolute and firm. Just as the words left his lips, a brief tremor shook the island, intensifying the urgency of the evacuation.

The people of Valga hurried to the mountain's summit, regardless of age or station. Large ocean waves, with towering crests, rushed relentlessly toward the island from every direction. The land beneath them started to crumble and sink into the depths of the sea.

Amidst the frantic scramble to board the ships, Arad urged Jack, "Come on, let's go, Jack. There's nothing more we can do here." Jack hesitated but turned to see that time was running out for those struggling to reach the vessels.

Determined to make a difference, Jack leaped from the ship and ran a short distance away. With the ancient sea shell in hand, he blew into it with unwavering determination. At first, it was challenging, but he persevered, unleashing a loud, piercing sound that caught his father's attention.

Waldorf, preoccupied with the frantic boarding, had not realized his son was missing until he heard the sound of the shell. As he looked back, he saw Jack standing alone, facing the encroaching waves.

The people who hadn't managed to get on the ships wailed in despair, their homes washed away by the relentless waters. Jack, facing the overwhelming waves, stood there helpless. Just as the sea was about to engulf him, a breathtaking sight unfolded. Talia, with her ethereal presence, rose from the water and stood beside Jack. Her outstretched hands created a barrier, shielding them from the impending deluge.

"Go on, Jack. You must hurry. I can't hold for too long," Talia urged, her smile radiating hope and determination. Jack, inspired by her bravery, turned and sprinted towards his father to help everyone get onboard.

As the last of the people were safely aboard, Talia used her remarkable powers to calm the surging waves. Gradually, she allowed the water to recede, gently propelling the ships forward at a remarkable speed. She dissipated into the water, vanishing beneath the surface.

Relief and jubilation swept across the people on the ships. They embraced one another, their hearts filled with the hope of finding a new home. Chief Waldorf approached Jack and placed his hands on his shoulders, his eyes brimming with pride.

"You did well, son. Today, you saved us all," Waldorf said, pulling his son into a warm embrace. "I'm so proud of you. The tales were true after all."

Jack couldn't help but express his sorrow. "Our home is gone now, Valga is gone," he lamented.

Waldorf, always the wise leader, corrected him gently. "No! The island may be gone, but not Valga. Look around you; this is Valga. Wherever we go, we'll make a home." Exhausted and emotionally drained, he continued, "It's been a long day; we should rest."

Father and son sat side by side, gazing out over the vast, open sea, their people's future uncertain but their determination unwavering.