Widderkin Interlude - 1. Chapter 1

 

Chapter 1.

"Uncle will go out of his brain when he sees all our new gemstones. We’d better not tell him we've been carting them round in our packs for nearly a month."

"Does he know we can only stop for half an hour?"

"He does, but when he sees the giant rubies Lady Narello gave me, he’ll blow a fuse if he can't have a big discussion."

"Hmm! Half an hour’s all the time we can spare so what if I give him an acceptance boost? He worked with us for ages the other time and those gemstones were peanuts compared to our new gifts."

Tan nodded.

"You might have to anyway because I’m giving him the best ruby and he’ll carry on about it being too much."

"Hey! Neat idea, Tan. Let's all do that."

Tan shook his head.

"He wouldn't cope, Rhys. He already thinks we’re far too generous."

"Yeah, I suppose ... Will half an hour be enough time to work on his computers, Corey?"

"Fifteen minutes, Rhys. It's not a big deal like our computers and phones, and the protections are all in the background so there won't be anything he needs to learn."

Mr B arrived with the hire van he’d organised and a few minutes later the airport was behind them.

"Will your mum relax as soon as you get home, Michael?"

***

"This is unreal, Michael. Is the other house as good as this one?"

"It hasn't got bungalows but the house is the same style, except it's got three bedrooms instead of four."

"Why did they call them hobby farms? This is really posh."

"That’s what was on the ‘For Sale’ signs, Rhys, and after four or five years everyone got used to it."

Michael, clearly enjoying the positive reactions, was showing everyone the first of the two hobby farms they'd purchased. When the inspection was finished there’d be one of Mr B's full on decision-making sessions, but as far as Kieran was concerned this house with the long drive and established trees would be hard to beat as a main centre.

"How far’s the beach?"

"Just over a kilometre, but it might be tricky getting there because there’s no track, and when you do get there I don't think there’s a way down. It’s steep cliffs all along this part of the coast and from the ocean it’s pretty spectacular."

"We can easily make a track."

"I suppose. The last few hundred metres is the national park buffer that goes along most of the coastline, and it’s mainly thick tea tree and coastal scrub."

"Is there much water?"

Rhys looked puzzled.

"What do you mean, Kieran."

"I know it rains a lot more than Mparntwe, but it is important for Realm Trees."

Michael nodded vigorously.

"Corey made me check that carefully, Kieran. Do you remember that hump in the track just before the house gate? It’s built up for the two big pipes that let water through when it flows."

"We crossed a creek and I didn't even notice?"

"It’s more like a watercourse than a creek, Rhys, and there’s no water at the moment. There are five dams to show you though, and the one for this house is big."

"Five? Why so many?"

"There’s no town supply so they made the place independent. You’ll see the water tanks when we check the bungalows and the farm shed."

"A shed? Let's go! We need to check all the outside stuff first."

"We do?"

"Of course, Mr B, to see how it will work for the Realm Tree."

Mr B laughed and shook his head.

"All right. Let's go, but I’m pretty sure we won't be putting the Realm Tree in the shed."

The outside investigation ended up taking most of the afternoon, with Kieran and Mr B discussing options and revisiting locations to see how they’d fit with each new idea. Kieran took particular care to lock everything he saw into his mind for Ranevargar’s benefit.

The lure of the cliffs and wild coastline was too strong to resist and Woorawa and Rhys went for an explore for a bit over an hour, and when Tan decided he wanted to christen the kitchen facilities, he and Michael went off in the hire van to get food supplies.

Mr B was kind of thoughtful and instead of a mind check, Kieran questioned him directly.

"Have you got reservations about this project, Mr B?"

"Not really ... Well, in a way yes. I’m as excited as everyone else, but we’ve got so much going on I don't know how we’ll find the time to manage it properly, especially when college starts."

"We won't have the time, Mr B, but I’ve got some ideas to help make it work. I was going to talk about it at our planning session tonight. One good option is to have someone living here and I'm thinking of Corey and Michael."

"What? They get on really well, but what about Michael's mum? She mightn't cope if Michael moves out."

"I've got that covered. We make the big house Corey's base and put Michael and his mum in the three-bedroom house. If they like it it’ll be a big help because they won't have to pay all that rent."

"That's brilliant, Kieran. Except she uses public transport and there’s nothing out here."

"Yes there is. By the time they move in there’ll be a couple of farm vehicles."

Mr B's face lit up.

"Michael’s going to freak. I can't wait to see this, but what about Corey? His skills are clearly cerebral. Do you think he’d take to practical things?"

Kieran had a think before answering.

"I suspect he could do just about anything to perfection if he put his mind to it, but he’s been so focused with his computer mastery, I’m not sure how much priority he’d give to anything else.

He did guide Michael through the whole purchasing process."

"Been? That's a curious to thing to say. Has something changed?"

"Yes. It’s not obvious but the sessions with Ban are strengthening the way Corey's mind functions.

Remember how I went into overdrive when you coached me for the scholarship?"

"How could I forget?"

"Well, Ban says Corey’s learning how to use that for different kinds of learning."

"I’m not sure I understand."

"Me either, till Ban explained. Corey's biggest ability seems to be with logic and solving problems."

"Like you with the maths."

"Nearly. Ranevargar says recognising patterns is my best thing, but Corey can kind of switch abilities according to what he’s doing."

"You're losing me again."

"For one of their sessions Ban challenged Corey to learn a new language and Ban was way ahead but then Corey's overdrive thing kicked in for memory and he learnt the 500 most commonly used words for French. Ban couldn't keep up."

"They’ve learnt to speak French?"

"Just a basic version. Ban has to stretch Corey's capabilities as widely as possible. You should have a maths session and see how it goes with that."

"I’m sure he knows a lot of maths through his computer work. I heard him telling Woorawa that binary and hex were easy. "

"Yeah, you’d have to make it a worthwhile challenge, like seeing how far he could go with differential calculus or advanced trig."

"I know what will happen. I’ll be like Ban and get left behind."

"That’s when you change the topic and pressure him all over again."

Mr B nodded.

"We haven't seen much of Ban. He’s always with Corey and Corey’s been taking special care to stay in the background. Do you have any idea how much longer he’ll be with us?"

"Ages. Ranevargar expected Corey would be recovering in the Realms for a couple of months, so it’ll be way more than that, with all the other things he’s doing here. Ban’s in no rush to get back either. He says that all the things he’s learning are too exciting."

Mr B laughed.

"What? All the drama with the government and the mining company?"

"That too, but more because Burrimul’s been telling him stories and teaching him chants and culture."

"He could stay here for ever learning that."

"One quarter of forever, Mr B, so far as the Realms are concerned."

***

Tan gave a yell from the turret balcony.

"They’re here. Nathan’s opening the road gate. He’s pointing at the bottlebrush plants for some reason."

Rhys raced up the spiral staircase to see for himself. He grabbed Mr B's binoculars and laughed.

"Rom’s doing his business. He’s probably been cooped up all the way from the airport. Hey! There’s only one vehicle?"

The big four-wheel-drive made its way to the house gate with Rom racing beside it.

Kieran, moving with everyone else to the main garage, mind reached to check the vehicle.

Nathan and only one other. Where were his mum and dad?

"Tan! I thought we’d never get here. It’s just me and Rom and Samuel, because mum and dad got bushwhacked at the airport. Can we take Rom to Rhys's cliffs?"

"Nathan, what happened? Are they all right?"

"What? Not bushwhacked bushwhacked. Work bushwhacked, and they can't get out of it. I think dad was swearing under his breath.

Hey, Rom. Here’s the boss. Shake his hand."

Rom turned and lifted his paw for Kieran.

"Wow, he remembers you, Kieran."

"Not really. Nathan cued him by looking at me."

"You’ve been giving Rom a lot of time?"

"Mum says it’s important. We’ll show you if you like."

"For sure, but we’ll get you settled first.

Nathan, we’ve got three choices for you, a bed in the rumpus room, a bunk-bed in Tan and Woorawa's room, or an air-bed in the turret."

"The bunk-bed please. What’s the turret?"

"Is like an upstairs den. Tan calls it his lookout.

Get your gear and Michael will show you round while we have a talk with Samuel.

You’ll get to know Corey and Ban on the way to the cliffs."

Nathan ran to the four-wheel-drive, shouldered a rucksack, and then struggled slightly with a carry-bag till Michael took it from him.

"Have you been anywhere else with Nathan, Samuel? He’s very excited."

"This is my first solo venture, sir. I’m usually with the Prime Minister, but the sudden change at the airport caught us short and I’m it. Yes, Nathan’s a great kid. He’s usually very quiet but he sat in the front and talked the whole way. If he doesn't get to see these penguins he’ll be very disappointed."

"Please, call me Kieran. Rhys will be calling me lord and master or Sir Poppycock, or something like that if he hears it again."

"Will not. Sir Bossyboots sounds better."

Samuel turned.

"That doesn't sound very respectful, sir."

"Is he kidding? He sounds like he means it."

"He’s half kidding, Rhys. He’s reserving his judgement till he knows us better."

"He’s sneaking looks at Corey and Ban?"

"He’s uneasy because they weren't part of his brief."

"Come with us on the cliff walk, Samuel, and you’ll get to know Corey and Ban. Nathan's father had a private talk with them at Mparntwe but now he’s not here to vouch for them."

"Yes. I would like that."

"Now he’s giving you a funny look."

"No, he's not. He’s surprised that I mentioned the topic he’s thinking about, and you’re sensing his surface thoughts."

"Mr B, would you be Samuel’s guide for a while?"

***

Woorawa and Rhys led the way, except when Rom raced ahead to sniff at something.

"Do you like exploring, Nathan? Rom sure does."

"I think so, Michael. In my mind I do but this holiday will be my first time for real. Tan said you might take us on your boat?"

"I hope so. It depends if the right weather matches up with my rostered days off. I’m at the National Park for the next two days and you’ll be helping with the working bee to take down the middle fences."

"I hope it doesn't make me too tired for the penguin walks. I’ve been thinking about them ever since Tan and Woorawa told me how good they are."

"Tired? You won't ... Tell him he’s a goose."

"What?"

"Did Rhys tell you a sob story about working for hours and hours till your muscles are too exhausted to do anything else?"

"Sort of. He’s very strong and fit isn't he?"

"He’s an idiot, well, he pretends to be to make people react. When he says it again tell him you’ll wake him up at five o'clock for an early start."

"Five o'clock?"

"That’s a stir because he loves sleeping in."

"I know he’s stirring, but he’ right in a way. I spend more time on reading than active things."

"Tan told me you love swimming. That’s pretty active."

"Not really. I spend more time being lazy then doing anything."

"Don't even worry, Nathan. Everyone will make sure that you’re happy and fitting in. If you do get tired Kieran knows how to help you rest."

"You mean like the recovery sleep he gave Rom?"

"I came home when they went to Canberra so I haven't caught up with everything yet."

"You know about my Power Eyes don't you?"

"I know you’re special and that you helped Woorawa win the battle against the mining company. What exactly are Power Eyes?"

"I can see the power in Kieran's Opal and I'm starting to see it in the Rubies. Tan says he wants me to do more experiments while I have the chance."

"You can see power? Wow! I don't know what to say."

The conversation stopped because Kieran was approaching.

"How’s it going, Nathan?

Has Michael told you we’re starting early tomorrow morning so we can fit in six hours of farm work and a five km beach run before we meet him at the Penguin Parade?"

Nathan's eyes popped till he saw Michael shake his head with a big no.

"That’s not funny, Kieran. Nathan’s worried because everyone else is older and fitter."

"He’s not worried at all, Michael. You talked him out of that. He’s amazed because I knew your early morning stir and Rhys's hard work stir.

Nathan, you already know some of our secrets but Tan’s decided you need to know everything."

"Everything? Is there much more?"

"Stacks, Nathan! You only know the tip of the iceberg.

Michael, we don't want Samuel to feel like a stranger so we’re inviting him to share meals with us, especially tonight with Tan's welcome to the farm cooking. When he leaves we’ll be doing all the things we usually do, so the more you explain to Nathan the better."

"I’m still working it out myself, Kieran."

"Yep! That’s why you get first go.

When Tan finishes talking with Corey and Ban he’ll be with you for most of the trip, Nathan.

I’m heading off to monitor how Samuel copes with Corey and Ban now, but check out the raven's eyes when they arrive. They’re not as special as Rom’s, but they’re still unreal."

Kieran ruffled the back of Rom’s head and moved away.

Nathan and Michael looked at each other, then to the few black shapes flying in the distance ahead or investigating whatever they were investigating on the ground.

"Those are ravens aren't they, Michael? Do you know what Kieran means?"

"Not exactly. They might come to talk to him."

***

"Your arrival call in was assuring, Samuel. Any changes?"

"Only for the better. The site is quite isolated and Nathan is the happiest I’ve ever seen him.

There are two lads who weren't on my personnel list, but Nathan and Woorawa insist they met with the Prime Minister in Mparntwe."

"Corey and Bantellar?"

"You know them? Good. They appear to be very dependable."

"Are your digs up to scratch?"

"They could hardly be better."

"Excellent. Is there any sign of resentment at your presence?"

"Not at all. In fact they’re so accommodating I’m not sure I’ll be able to maintain proper neutrality of judgement."

"I doubt that. Explain please."

"This afternoon we had an expedition to the clifftops and, instead of feeling like the security tag along with a bunch of wild kids, I enjoyed everything. Rhys is crazy."

"That’s for sure. The PM and Nathan referred to him as the goose when were were in Mparntwe, but tread carefully, the Prime Minister holds him in the highest regard. Anything else?"

"Well, I didn't expect to share meals and social times but Tan and Woorawa both insist I join in."

"That's for you to decide."

"My point is that I’m looking forward to it. At the clifftops I did have to intervene when Rhys and Woorawa wanted to find a way down and Kieran and Bantellar started exploring a very dubious ledge."

"I hope Nathan wasn't going to be involved."

"No way. He thought they were crazy and I could see him looking at me to call a stop."

"And they did?"

"Yes, but Kieran must have thought rock-climbing was part of our training because he challenged me to describe the safest way down. I ended up discussing where to put anchor points, proper ropes to use, and how abseiling was the only way down two vertical drops."

"Good tactic. Throw up enough hurdles to dissuade them."

"I'm afraid not. Rhys and Woorawa looked at each other then turned to Corey and asked him for the best way to make it happen. My head’s still reeling. In fifteen minutes they had a plan I couldn't fault."

"Did this plan include Nathan?"

"No, but when he saw all the safety backups he changed from disbelief to anticipation and he agreed to the group stipulation that he needed his parents’ permission before joining in. He’ll ring his father this evening."

"We’re arriving tomorrow so they’ll be able to discuss it in person. The PM made a snap decision for a brief visit and we’re arriving mid-afternoon tomorrow."

"That’s great news. Nathan will be delighted. I’m due at the house in fifteen minutes, so do you want me to let them know straight away? They’ll insist on the original plan with Gwen and the PM set up in the master bedroom and that will mean some rearrangements."

"Gwen can't make it. The interruption yesterday has escalated and they’re heading overseas for high level security talks. The PM doesn't really have the time either but he refuses to miss sharing Nathan's visit to the penguin walk."

"That’s quite a change of plans. Tell me what you want me to do."

"Arrange a discrete meeting with the park management. The PM wants this kept as low key as possible."

"The young Ranger who’ll be the guide is here tonight, so I’ll work something out with him."

"That’s Michael, isn't it? What’s he like?"

"Gentle, kind, and thoughtful. Nathan took to him instantly and they were talking most of the way to the clifftops."

"Our quiet, reserved, Nathan?"

"Arthur, I don't know what it is with this group but they’re good for him."

"Yes, I saw that while we were in Mparntwe. Would it be appropriate to ask if the helicopter crew can stay the night in one of the bungalows?"

"Of course. Though I don't know why they call them bungalows. They’re set up so well."

"What’s the status for tomorrow morning? Light or heavy?"

"Both. Security will be light but I’m working with Rhys and Mr B to remove one of the fence-lines."

"You’re what?"

"I know. Rhys says I am his apprentice jackaroo. Nathan’s the spider monkey helping Tan clear all the spouting, and Mr B and Bantellar are the skydivers cleaning all the solar panels."

"Skydivers?"

"Rhys reckons they’re so clumsy they’ll definitely take a tumble."

"This is a group of kids having a holiday? We’ll compare notes tomorrow."

***

The big helicopter settled, the blades froze, and after a moment the doorway opened and the Prime Minister appeared.

"He looks tired, Kieran. Nathan's hike to the clifftops might be a bit much."

"Yes, we’ll be sneaky and use the four-wheel-drive to take us to the back fence."

"That’s not sneaky."

"It is if Samuel gives Nathan a half hour driving lesson."

"Aren't you using it to take Arthur to meet Mandy?"

"That won't take long if we leave straight away. We’ll be back by the time Nathan shows his dad the house set up and some of Rom’s new tricks."

***

"Michael, aren't you? – Kieran, I didn't expect to see you till this evening. Is this your guest for the tour?"

Kieran took over.

"Hi, Mandy. An extra guest has turned up and we’ll need your help to keep his visit private."

Mandy gave a sharp look at the smartly dressed gentleman behind Michael.

"Private? ... Some sort of VIP?"

"Arthur looks after the Prime Minister’s security and he’s here to liaise with you."

"Liaise? – Is Rhys out there?"

Kieran gave Arthur the, ‘you take over’, look,.

"Ma’am, I know Rhys enjoys a prank but I can assure you that this isn't one of them.

The Prime Minister wants to share the tour your young Ranger arranged for this evening. His son Nathan has been talking about it ever since these young people befriended him."

"The Prime Minister? The real Prime Minister? Tonight? ... What do I need to do?"

"Hardly anything. Family time is precious and that’s why he’s keen to keep it private. Kieran tells me Michael has a secluded little nook where Nathan can have a close encounter. It sounds ideal and I’m hoping you’d be happy for his father to join them."

"Nook?"

"The camera hide, Mandy. As long as we’re sitting down no one will see us. Nathan arrived yesterday and he’ll be a class A visitor."

"Yes, of course, but there’s not much room. Have you considered that?"

Michael looked to Kieran.

"Mandy’s right, Kieran. There were six of us last time and that was pushing it. What do you want to do?"

"Nathan and his dad, plus Rhys, Tan and me. With you as the guide, that will be six. Corey and Ban can come any time."

"Aren't you forgetting Arthur?"

"It’s a low risk situation, Ma’am. Providing we have line of sight, keeping in the back ground draws less attention. Is there somewhere discrete with a reasonable overview?"

Mandy smiled.

"I expect you already know there is, and you’re welcome to use our observation room as you see fit. There’s a whole range of telephoto and night vision equipment, along with the control centre for our spotlights. I hope you’re happy to share with myself and one other staff member."

"Wonderful! I know the Prime Minister will want to express his gratitude, so is this office suitable?"

"Of course."

"Mandy, when it was just Nathan, we were going to show him the care centre and let you know who he was then. Samuel, he’s the other security man, wasn't keen but Nathan and the rest of us persuaded him that it would be okay. It’s away from the public and you could meet Nathan and his father and show them Gulpy and the orphan chicks."

Arthur was nodding approval when his phone chimed.

"Excuse me a moment. This thing is my lord and master."

He turned away and the soft murmur of his voice rose with an expressive ‘what?’.

After more phone murmur Arthur said, "I’ll ask".

He looked at Mandy.

"I have a request from young Rhys. It appears that the Prime Minister has been challenged to demonstrate his yabby catching skills, and they’re wondering if you have any spare chicken wire or fishing line."

"Run out to the utility shed, Michael. I remember seeing some wire remnants from the temporary enclosure there. I don't know about actual fishing line, but any cord or string would do."

Michael disappeared.

"I have got a few spare coathangers in my locker that could be used as makeshift frames for the netting. The Prime Minister has yabby catching skills?"

"I have no idea."

"I do, Arthur. It’s a family story he tells about yabby races when he was Nathan's age.

There are five dams at the Grove and they’re probably going to try the big one."

Mandy was curious.

"The Grove? Is that your name for the hobby farms, Kieran?"

"Yes, except for a strip near the road, we’re turning the whole place into a private reserve for vegetation and wildlife."

"Really? Michael didn't tell me that but it sounds wonderful. I’ll get the coathangers so you’re not held up."

Mandy went off and Kieran turned to Arthur.

"She’s very cooperative."

"Most people are when they realise who they’re dealing with. I do like her manner though, and I know the PM will look for a moment to thank her personally."

"Samuel’s very competent. Has he been working with you for long?"

"Years, about eight, as my memory serves ... Kieran, who do we look to for final decisions? The PM can't figure whether it’s you or Woorawa."

"It depends on what’s happening. Mostly me, I suppose, but depending on the situation it can be any of us. Woorawa had special authority from his people, as well as our support, when we were in Canberra, but he won't use it here unless he thinks it’s important to help Michael."

"Michael needs help?"

"His culture is important to him and a lot of the local stories and ways are being lost."

"And what about Corey? Samuel can't figure him."

"Join the club. Whenever he makes an announcement we absolutely take notice."

Arthur clearly wanted to make the most of Kieran's frank speaking but Michael returned with a small roll of fine mesh wire netting and some nylon fishing line wound around a piece of wood.

***

"It sure looks scary but it’s safe as long as you do it right. I’ll watch how you do it, Nathan, and if you make any mistakes I won't copy them."

Nathan shook his head and turned to Tan.

"That means I'm swapping turns so dad can learn from my mistakes.

Anyway, how do you know it’s safe, dad? I heard you tell Samuel you’ve never even tried rope climbing."

"I used to watch Gwen practising on one of those climbing walls, and she explained that proper climbing ropes are so strong they can hold a bus."

"Mum’s done climbing? I didn't know that."

"It was before she went to uni. She’s aggravated that she’s missing out.

How are you going to secure the rope, Arthur? It doesn't matter how strong it is if the branch or whatever it's tied to collapses."

"See that ledge to the left, sir. It’s a bit of a bush bash to get there but we found the perfect spot to hammer in a metal stake."

"Down there? That looks like an expedition in its own right."

"I thought so too, but Mr B found an easy way down."

Nathan laughed.

"They’re orangutans. They’ve got monkey brains for finding the best way."

"Nathan? That’s rude. I –"

The range of blossoming smiles clued the PM that he’d been caught again.

"That was me, Johnny! Nathan appreciates a bit of a joke."

The PM saw the shock at Rhys's familiarity register with Arthur and Samuel and he couldn't help laughing.

"I haven't been called Johnny since primary school, Rhys. From you, I like it.

Have Kieran and Mr B had experience with climbing?"

"We all have, but Kieran and Mr B have a special knack and can go in crazy places. We’ve never used a rope though, and Samuel’s making us practice from the roof of the barn before we do anything here."

"Hmm! I have to be on my way by three tomorrow afternoon. When does the gear get here?"

Corey took out his mobile phone.

"I’ll ring the supplier now and ask for an express delivery. The courier should easily manage ten AM, maybe even earlier."

"Wonderful, Corey. The earlier the better ... Look at that. Those two birds plunged into the water. They must be fishing."

"It’s a pity he’s not coming on the boat, Kieran."

"He’s enjoying everything, Rhys, but most of all he’s happy for Nathan. He’s too tired though, and I’m going to force a siesta on him before we leave to see the penguins."

"What about tomorrow? He says he’s helping Nathan pull down the next fence."

"No fences for anyone tomorrow, you’ll be happy to know we’re all staying in till about nine. He’ll have the deepest sleep ever."

"What about sneaking him an energy boost?"

"It’s proper rest he needs, Rhys. Maybe when we’re at the cliffs tomorrow."

"Those birds are a pair of Australian gannets, Prime Minister. They’re all along this coast, and that water dive can take them ten or twelve metres deep. I probably shouldn't tell you this in front of Rhys, but another name for them is booby."

The Prime Minister looked at Rhys and laughed.

"It’s certainly a tempting name to make jokes about. All this nature and wild life is a far cry from the pursuit of politics, Mr B."

"I can't imagine how you cope. It seems like a frantic one-dimensional way of life. My lecturing has a similar type of demanding personal interaction, but the semester breaks let me explore other opportunities."

"It’s not all sacrifice, Mr B. There are rewards as well."

"You work too hard, dad. Uncle Rory agrees with mum and me about that. You were meant to be here for a whole week and you’re only getting one day."

The PM gave Nathan a quick hug.

"So, let’s make the most of it. Those yabbies won't know what’s hit them."

***

"You’re cheating, Nathan. Tan gave you the tasty bits of meat and all I got for my line was gristle and old bone. Three yabbies at once! And look at that monster. It's not a yabby, it must be a freshwater crayfish."

Nathan was concentrating too much to answer. With a deft scoop his makeshift net flicked the catch ashore and, yelling with excitement, he pounced on the said monster.

Rom, loving this new game, pressed a paw to hold a smaller yabby in place, and the PM secured a third aggressive little creature.

With the happiest smile, Nathan displayed his catch for all to see.

"Look at his nippers, dad. He’s even bigger than Arthur's. He’s enormous."

***

The Prime Minister's feelings welled as Nathan’s grip on his arm tightened for a shared moment of astonishment.

Seven groups, Michael called them rafts, had waddled ever so purposefully past the secluded nook in the rocks, oblivious to the six silent observers.

This eighth group had paused for a moment, heads uniformly cocked as if listening then, almost eagerly, left the penguin highway and shuffled closer and closer till they were, as Rhys described it, only a few waddles away.

For a prolonged moment, little bird noises sounded a curiously happy chorus, then the contingent of visitors turned and resumed their highway trek.

"They knew we were here and they came to look at us. All the little faces looking gave me a shivery feeling.

Michael, do you bring guests here very often? I didn't think wild birds would do something like this."

"Hardly ever, PM, and behaviour like that is very unusual ... We should move so we don't disturb the next raft. Mandy will be waiting at the care centre by now."

***

"Would you like to feed him, Nathan? You’ll see why we call him Gulpy."

"Can I really? He doesn't know me, so will he take food from a stranger?"

Mandy and Michael shared a laugh.

"If it wasn't for his distinctive swallowing action we could have called him Greedy Gannet instead of Gulpy Gannet. He’ll take food from anyone."

"Does he peck? His bill looks stronger than the pictures Mr B showed us."

"You did some research? Good for you.

You’re his main feeder, Michael. Has he ever pecked anyone?"

"Only when we first rescued him ... Look at him. He’s seen the food."

The PM watched the interaction between Nathan and Gulpy and had to restrain his impulse to hug Tan. Gwen should be sharing this.

"This is wonderful, Mandy. Where ever do you learn the treatments? I can't imagine there’s a course anywhere in gannet health."

"Trial and error, mostly. We have an associate veterinarian with special knowledge of native and wild animals who comes in one day a week, or when something like Gulpy’s wing fracture is beyond us.

Michael has a calming way with animals so I give him more time in this centre than most rangers, even though he’s officially still a cadet."

"A cadet? That surprises me. He knows so much about the penguins and other birds."

"That's because he’s a bird brain. It takes one to know one."

"The PM looked at Mandy and shook his head.

"Rhys catches me every time."

Michael, understanding that Rhys was helping him through the awkward moment of being praised by the Prime Minister of Australia, recovered quickly.

"I’ve got tranquilliser darts ready to stick in his backside. That’s how I calm Rhys when he needs it."

The PM shook his head again and peeked to see if Nathan was enjoying this is much as he was. Yes.

"Would you like to inspect our artificial penguin burrows, Prime Minister? We’re experimenting with designs to make them as fox proof as possible."

"Yes, I would. I –"

The outer door opened and Arthur hurried through.

"I am sorry to interrupt, Prime Minister, but the Foreign Affairs minister wants you to make contact."

"Did she sound urgent?"

"Not exactly, but she is aware that you’re on family time, so it must be significant. I have a secure phone for you."

"Secure? I see. - Mandy, is there somewhere a helicopter can land? I expect something has escalated."

Arthur forestalled Mandy's reply.

"That’s all in hand, sir. The park has a designated helipad, and I’ll prep the pilots while you’re on the phone."

With a circumspect nod of apology the Prime Minister hurried from the room.

"Wow, Nathan! Sounds dramatic. I suppose you’re used to it?"

"It drives mum and me mad because it always seems to happen when we’re in the middle of something good. He’ll probably be gone for ages if things have escalated."

"Does he tell you what happens?"

"Depends. I’m mostly not interested, and sometimes it's secret. I think he tells mum everything ... I wish he didn't have to go."

In the silence that followed this forlorn remark Tan draped a comforting arm across Nathan shoulder.

"Sheba, Kieran! What a rat brain thing to happen."

"No it's not, Rhys."

"What you mean? Of course it is."

"Watch! The door’s about to open."

Everyone, startled by Rhys's rather dramatic 180° turn, followed suit.

For a few seconds nothing happened but then the said door burst open and the PM came through.

"The son of a bitch abdicated and the crisis is resolved ... Pardon my language everyone. Let's move and check out the penguin real estate."

He laughed at the range of expectant looks.

"I’ll ring Gwen after we’ve seen these birdie abodes, and she’ll be able to get here in the morning." He laughed again because this explanation was clearly lacking.

"The Prince Regal, except he wasn't really a prince, and he definitely wasn't regal, accepted a pardon and confiscation of 75% of his ill gotten assets rather than face the courts and massive civil unrest. Our Foreign Minister is taking a team of advisers to help the new government."

"Mum will be here tomorrow?"

"Yes, Nathan. We’re back on track."

***

The next day, Tuesday, was full on.

In the middle of rearranging the sleeping set up so Nathan's mum and dad would be based in the master bedroom, the courier with all the climbing equipment arrived, and Kieran and Rhys helped Samuel get the barn set up for the learning and practice session.

Just after ten o'clock Tan’s uncle delivered the new necklaces and took Tan and Kieran aside to inform them that four big jewellery houses were bidding crazy prices for exclusive rights to the new and extraordinary set of giant rubies that had come on offer.

Gwen arrived at about 10:15, earlier than expected, and after happy greetings, a freshen up and a change to suitable clothing, Nathan rushed her to join everyone else.

Samuel had everything set up with four abseiling ropes dangling from the barn entrance and, after a comprehensive and quite demanding session, he took everyone through their crucial first descent.

Gwen had first honours and with complete confidence and a big smile for Nathan, made the whole thing look easy.

"Wow, Kieran. She sure is adventurous. Samuel’s really impressed."

"Me too. I’m going to put into Samuel's mind to get her to help Tan. The first time over the edge will be really scary for him."

"You reckon? It’s not much of a drop."

"Get real, Rhys. It’s about five or six m. That’s enough to hurt anyone."

"I suppose, but it’s tiny compared to the cliffs."

Mr B went next. He also had previous experience, and he also made it look easy.

Rhys had to eat his words when, all clipped and secure, he looked down and experienced a mini adrenaline rush. After three more practices he realised he was ready for the real thing.

***

"I hope you’ll excuse us, Kieran. After I clear away a few official matters Gwen and I would like to take a stroll to the clifftops so we can contemplate the ocean view. I need a battery recharge and Gwen’s an ocean watcher. I hope Michael won't be upset if we don't see his boat till tomorrow"

"Will Nathan go with you for family time?"

"Now, that's a good idea. We’ll –"

"Dad!"

Gwen laughed and shook her head.

"He’s teasing, Nathan. Go with Tan and Rhys and do whatever they tell you."

"Mum! ... If I do what Rhys tells me Michael will throw me in his brig, if he’s got one."

Kieran gave Nathan a nod of approval.

"Michael was going to discuss the maps and we’re all keen to keep our options open to suit conditions or check any interesting happenings."

"Happenings? Like what?"

"Michael contacted me when he finished work, Nathan, to say that Mandy has okayed a close look at the seal colony, as long as we keep our distance from the commercial cruisers. Evidently there are five of them tomorrow and they get antsy about private boats intruding on their space. He’s more excited about reports of whales passing through, and if we play our cards right we might get to see them."

"Whales! Really?"

"They’re humpbacks, evidently, so we might end up anchoring near Wilsons Promontory tomorrow night."

"The Prom? As far as that?"

"The boat’s got powerful engines."

"Hmm! This adventure keeps getting more and more interesting. What time do we need to rendezvous for our evening meal?"

This was a question that affected everyone and all eyes turned to Tan.

"Make it 7:30 please. It’s a nice meal to celebrate everyone being here."

"Roast spuds?"

"Yes, Rhys, and scalloped spuds, and spuds baked in their jackets too, in case any spudnickers turn up."

"The evil chef has spoken. Don't be late, Gwen, or you’ll only get leftovers."

***

"Head for Michael's house, Corey. Everything’s already organised for tomorrow and we’re making this trip for another reason."

"Aren't we going to the boat?"

"You’ll see it tomorrow morning, Nathan. Tan's uncle made a special trip this morning to bring us new necklaces and we need some time to get them set up and working properly."

"Necklaces? Power ones like yours and the others?"

"Well, not like mine, but we hope they’re something like the others. That’s one of the things we’ll find out."

Nathan gave Kieran up puzzled look.

"Do you want me to see what their power looks like?"

"They haven't got any power yet, Nathan. That’s the first thing we’re going to do."

"Wow! Are you going to call your Blue Power like the other night? It looks more alive than Life Power and Affinity Power."

"I’m calling a power you haven't seen yet, Nathan, because using my Blue Power would take too long. Here, watch how the fastening works and see what it feels like."

Nathan didn't cotton on.

"What? You want me to model this one for Michael?"

"Nope, Michael’s necklace is in my pocket, and Corey and Ban are already wearing theirs.

They all come from Tan and he says you need one to go with your Power Eyes."

Nathan stared at the Ruby resting in the palm of his hand.

"Tan said that? What does he mean?"

"We don't exactly know, but when he gets strong about something we don’t argue."

"Woorawa said the same thing the other day. A Power Stone for Power Eyes. It sounds good doesn't it.

Kieran, what about mum and dad? When they see this monstrous Ruby they won't let me accept it. Rubies are worth a lot of money, aren't they?"

Corey made a funny noise then caught Nathan's eyes in the driving mirror.

"Millions of dollars, Nathan, but that's minor compared to their real value.

Kieran, Nathan’s completely correct and it’s quite a problem because I believe he should be in constant physical contact with his Power Stone."

"I haven't got an answer yet. Just keep it in your pocket or your carry-pack for the time being, Nathan, and we’ll work something out."

Corey slowed and pulled into the driveway where Michael was waiting.

"What’s with the mystery visit? I’m still organising myself for tomorrow."

"Tan's uncle turned up this morning with the new necklaces."

"Already? Okay, we can use the rumpus room but what if mum wanders in to say hello?"

"Turn the TV on and she’ll have a lovely refreshing sleep for a while."

A few minutes later Nathan's eyes were bugged at the four streams of power flowing from the shimmering white globe floating just above their heads.

"What are you seeing Nathan? You look a bit dazed."

"The bands going into the rubies look like Kieran's Blue Power and they’re okay, but that globe up there is so strong I had to adjust the way I look at it."

Corey's attention pounced.

"Can you explain what you mean by adjusting? Your eyes aren't screwed tight like a normal squint against strong light."

"No, the ordinary light that Kieran’s putting there is okay. The real power’s different and I think I'm doing something in my head so it doesn't dazzle me."

Corey's eyes lit up.

"Nathan, that means you’re taking control. Is it automatic or conscious?"

"I don't know what you mean."

"Can you relax whatever you are doing so the real power shows a bit more strongly?"

Nathan's face screwed a little, but it was a concentration squint, rather than a dazzle one.

"Hmm! I think so. Yes, but I’m changing back. It's uncomfortable."

"Excellent, change back and then to try to go even further."

"So it’s hard to see?"

"This is exciting. Have a try, Nathan."

The concentration this time was briefer and not as obvious.

"It works, Corey, but I don't like that either."

Corey put a hand out for a high five with Nathan, except it was a middle range five.

"Kieran, keep a small pool of White Power when you finish with our rubies so we can check a few things."

Kieran nodded, frowned, then laughed.

"More new stuff to think about, Nathan. The frown was because the Rubies aren't taking as much power as I expected and I’ve rushed things again."

Corey responded.

"What’s the problem, Kieran? The power’s flowing and everything looks good."

"These rubies haven’t been structured as well as the others and if I can't restructure them they’ll only store about half as much power."

"Does that matter?"

"Not really, but if Rhys was with us I’m fairly certain I could have copied the structure of his Ruby for these."

"You can do that any time, Kieran. Finish filling them, and then we’ll work with Nathan."

***

"Welcome aboard everyone. Bring your gear and I’ll show you where to put it."

The Prime Minister shared a disbelieving look with Gwen and Nathan.

"This is your boat?"

"It belongs to all of us, PM, but it’s in my name because I live here and I’ve got the papers to use it properly ... Down here.

The master cabin is for you and Gwen.

Arthur and Samuel have a bunk each.

That’s your bunk, Kieran and Rhys, and Tan and Woorawa are sharing the other one.

The rest of us will be on the floor with air mattresses and thermal pads.

Rom can curl up next to you, Nathan, but come with me while everyone stows their gear and we’ll show Rom his own space. It’s your job to keep it clean and train him to use it so we don't have pee or poo in places where it shouldn't be. - He looks happy. Has he been on a boat before?"

"He’s always happy and this is his first boat.

Will we get many chances for a swim?"

"That’s like a joke, Nathan. We’ve got Rhys with us."

"I suppose, but what if Rom jumps in. Will we be able to get him back on the boat?"

"It’s easy. There’s a pontoon with steps. He won't even need our help."

"Do you think there’ll be any big waves?"

"They’re called swells when we’re away from the shoreline, and the outlook says persistent mild conditions. And now I’ll show you how to start the engines."

***

Michael gave Nathan a nudge and pointed.

"What? Oh Boy! Dolphins."

"Yep! They’ll keep us company while we’re in the bay. Go and tell your mum and dad. They’re looking in the wrong direction."

And indeed, everyone was scanning ahead till Nathan’s yell started the scramble for a new viewpoint.

"How many, Kieran?"

"Thirteen altogether, Rhys."

"Are you telling them to leap out of the water?"

"No way. They’re so curious that even a hint of affinity would have them following us for ages."

"That lazy old stingray is on your mind."

"If we go anywhere near her I’ll ask Michael to stop so Nathan can see her up close. The seals are spectacular too, so we’ll do something with them as well."

"Do your welcome message. The colony all calling back was unreal last time."

"Good idea. As long as there aren't any commercial cruises there. Mandy told Michael to keep them at a distance."

"She’s got that wrong. The captains and crews all know Michael’s a local and ranger, and they all give him a friendly wave. It’s only strange boats they look on as intruders. Most of them have caught up with him at the marina and had a bit of a stickybeak. – Woorawa’s pointing at something."

***

"How far?"

"Michael thinks about half an hour as long as we don't have too many more stops."

Kieran and Rhys were collecting drinks for the keen eyed watchers eagerly checking for whatever might be ahead.

"How d’you think Arthur and Samuel will react?"

"They’ll be okay. Navigation skills are part of their training and Arthur in particular was impressed when he realised Michael was way ahead of him."

Kieran laughed.

"A close encounter with a pod of orcas would make anyone react – don't forget soda water for Gwen."

***

Nathan yelled.

"Get Michael! I think there’s a shark."

Heads snapped, then turned to where Nathan was pointing.

"I can't see it now, Tan, but there was a fin. I’m sure."

Gwen yelled now.

"Yes! Yes! A bit to the left of where you’re pointing. – It’s gone."

"Oh my God. Check with the binoculars, Samuel. There’s more than one."

Kieran waved to Michael and signalled for a change of direction. Michael knew the pod's location exactly, of course, but the plan had been for Nathan to make the discovery.

Samuel made a weird exclamation and hurriedly handed over the binoculars.

"They are almighty sized sharks then. Those fins are enormous and I saw five or six before they went under."

"I can't see anything ... Yes I can. They’re harder to see because they’re not side on anymore – I think they’re coming towards us. It must be a school – have a look, Gwen. You’ve got sharp eyes."

Gwen refused the binoculars.

"I can see them. I think they’re dolphins."

Two big engines throttled down and the boat coasted to a stop while Michael came to join everyone.

"Good spotting, Nathan, and your mum’s right. They are dolphins, special ones though, called orcas, and they’re coming to say hello."

Five sets of uncomprehending eyes stared before being drawn to the spectacle now only a hundred metres away. The PM found his voice.

"You mean they’re curious? Like the dolphins when we left the marina, Michael?"

"They are curious, John, extremely curious, but they’re much more than that. They’re my friends and they’ve come to meet you."

The PM and Gwen stared. Arthur and Samuel went still.

Nathan, totally excited, grabbed Tan's arm.

"Real orcas? And they’re friendly?"

Gwen looked to her husband, expecting him to make some sort of explanation, and couldn't figure his strange expression.

"Nathan, I think Michael is expressing his respect and love of animals in general. I –"

Her husband's arm pulling her close interrupted.

"Let’s watch, Gwen. We’ve had several unusual encounters with nature today and I think Michael is preparing us for another."

Rhys yelled.

"Yay! Look! Norkus is racing to get here first."

Conversation stopped as first one, then moments later, a whole series of powerful bodies leapt high then disappeared underwater not far from the boat.

"What a pack of show offs!"

Rhys's comment took the stunned newbies’ gaze from the suddenly mysterious ocean surface to the phalanx of jubilant smiles.

"They’re not showing off, Rhys. They’re always happy when we show up."

"Always?"

Arthur’s eternally roving eyes, well they hadn't been quite as vigilant since the boat left the harbour, focused and fixed on Michael.

"Michael, you make it sound like a common occurrence? They’re wild animals. Wild and dangerous. I saw a report where a great white shark was killed by orcas."

The surface roiled. A massive tail slapped and Michael yelled, ‘Norkus', and jumped overboard.

Five shocked observers watched Michael swim to the sleek body and grasp the dorsal fin.

The orca rose enough to hold his rider out of the water then turned towards the boat.

"Come on, Rhys. You’re a slow poke today. I – wait! Don't move. They want to give you an orca greeting."

The water surrounding the boat was almost instantly a mass of watching orcas. The Prime Minister, almost overwhelmed by the surge of powerful scrutiny, instinctively pulled Gwen and Nathan close.

Strange twitter, shriek, squeak trilled through the air, became a choral ululation then, way too soon, cut to silence.

"Bloody hell!"

Arthur, in complete agreement with Samuel's heartfelt exclamation, stared in wonder at the massive heads surrounding the boat. Watching.

"Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"

The companions followed Michael's example with their own calls and waves. And Nathan, succumbing to the mood of his new friends, broke the spell of astonishment and joined in.

Pod cohesion broke and the orcas became individuals.

When Rhys slipped his reef sandals off and dived in, the PM wrenched his attention from the orcas and turned to Kieran and Woorawa.

"How can this be happening? Michael said the orcas were his friends and now one of them’s giving him a ride. He said the orcas were going to greet us, and they sang.

Kieran, the penguins sang to us, and in a strange way so was all that seal roaring."

A yell and a great splash interrupted.

Kieran made the most of it.

"We’ll talk in a while. Norkus has started the tail game and it's too much fun to miss out on."

The exodus to the water left five dumbfounded watchers. Well, Nathan wasn't quite as surprised, and a few minutes of watching was enough for astonishment to change to a spark of excitement.

"Look at Tan, Mum. That big one’s as gentle as anything."

As if sensing he was being watched, Tan raised an arm, gave a nod, then made an easy beckoning motion.

The PM's hair stood on end.

"Nathan, don't you dare. That’s the king predator for the whole planet. They eat great white sharks for breakfast."

Nathan, with a lifetime of knowing which parental buttons to press, gave Gwen the full eager treatment.

"We trust Tan, Mum, and this would be the best adventure ever. Look how much fun they’re having. Mr B’s a maths lecturer so it can't be dangerous."

"Nathan, I –"

"Nathan has a point, John. Look how relaxed Tan is, and we wouldn't have to join Michael and Rhys for the roughhousing."

"We? Did you say we? - I distinctly heard the word, we, somewhere in there. I can see the headlines now. ‘First Prime Minister of Australia – eaten by fish.’

Arthur, you’re here to protect me. Do something."

Arthur, quick on the recovery from his own incredulity, took a look at the five happy lads, no make that seven, as Corey and Ban were moving to the pontoon, took a look at the triumph writ large on Nathan's face and Gwen's plainly expectant expression, and understood exactly where this was going.

"It’s not in the rulebook, PM. I could shoot them all, but I suspect they mightn't even notice. Samuel, is there a harpoon in your service pack? I forgot mine."

Samuel held his hands up with leave me out of this message, then catching on, scratched his head quizzically.

"My rulebook suggests a harpoon might aggravate them enough to eat the boat as well as the PM."

"Traitors!"

"Nathan’s smiling, Kieran. Did you have to do much?"

"Just a touch of assurance, Rhys. Nathan's trust has kind of caught with his mum and dad, and Arthur and Samuel took their cue from the PM. He we go. Nathan’s on his way to the pontoon."

"Send Tan to meet him."

"Yep! Michael’s already doing that."

Michael didn't send Tan. Instead, Tan stayed relaxed while the giant orca carried him so close that Nathan only had to swim a couple of metres. Tan pulled him out of the water and steadied him till he was settled and secure. Radiating wonder and excitement, he turned to his mum and dad.

"Come on! Come on! It’s unreal."

With a leap and a splash Rom answered his masters call.

"Sheba! Will he be all right?"

The answer was several seconds coming.

"Whoo! I wasn't ready for that, Rhys. Michael okayed it with the pod and Rom now understands they’re friends. I've got his claws retracted so he won't scratch when he reaches Tan and Nathan."

The drama ended when Rom did his body shake and Nathan gave him a firm sit command.

Rhys gave a mental giggle.

"Check the PM, Kieran. He looks like he thought Rom could have got eaten."

Ten minutes later Samuel succumbed to lure and laughter, and at Corey's invitation swam to join him for a mini orca tour round the now deserted boat.

At Michael's signal the close encounter finished and everyone left the water and gathered to see what he wanted.

"Decision time, everyone. Do we want to continue parallel to the coast? There’s the Prom with its ocean beaches and walking trails, and then Corner Inlet where we’d have protected anchorage for the night."

"Can we stay here for a while longer, Michael? I know the promontory is a wonderful place but it can't compare with these orcas."

"I agree with you completely, Gwen, but it's not an issue because they love our company and they’re coming with us."

The adults all shared a look, but strange news seemed to be becoming the norm and they made no comment.

"What's to decide, Michael? The Prom and Corner Inlet are practically the same thing."

"There’s another option. We could go that way."

Michael's arm pointed almost due south. Rhys broke the puzzled silence.

"Are you kidding? That’s the Bight. It’s wild. And there’s nothing till you get to Tasmania."

"I’ve researched the maps carefully, Rhys, and there are quite a few islands. Most of them are inaccessible, but there’s one with an inlet on the lee side where we could anchor."

Corey laughed.

"Like the proverbial desert island. Forget the Prom, everyone. Michael’s not even interested. Tell us what your research turned up."

"We’ll go to the Prom if that's what everyone decides, but listen to this. There are ruins of an old sealer’s camp, and a cave where a hermit is meant to have lived, and a hike to clifftops where albatrosses and other sea birds nest."

"What are albatrosses like? They’ve been mentioned a few times as if they’re special."

Michael looked to Mr B but he shook his head.

"This is your home ground, Michael. You know specifics."

"They’re special seabirds, Ban, that can fly for ages without having to land. There’s one type that spends months in the air and only really touches down when it’s nesting time."

"I’m intrigued. A visit to this rugged island would be a valuable learning experience. You have my vote, Michael."

"Way to go! I’m with Ban. Staying a night or two on an uninhabited island would be terrific.

The descendants from the Captain Cook mutiny might be hiding there, but don't worry, Nathan. I’ll make sure they don't make soup out of you."

"Soup? Make up your mind, Rhys. Are they pirates or cannibals?"

"Haven't you read your history books? They’re pirate-cannibals."

"Bite him, Rom. He’s crazy."

Rom cocked his head trying to figure why master was pointing, then went to Rhys and enjoyed a nice pat on the head.

Michael turned to Gwen and the PM.

"Any thoughts one way or the other?"

"John and I are voting with Nathan."

Nathan's decision was instant and he pointed where Michael had pointed.

Michael wanted to listen to everyone though.

"What do you think, Arthur?"

"I’m all for an island stopover, but what’s the situation for emergency access?"

"You mean for the big helicopter? The satellite images look okay to me and there’s the inlet too, for naval vessels or the Coast Guard."

"Good. It’s not privately owned is it?"

"It’s Crown Land and the rookery is National Park."

"Michael, you haven't said how far it is."

"About twenty km, and with these conditions we could be there in an hour."

"An hour? What about the orcas? You said they might come with us?"

"What do you mean?"

"Well, how will they keep up? Twenty km is a long way, especially at that rate."

"John, that’s a dawdle for them. This boat has powerful engines and it’s capable of 16 knots. They can reach 30."

"Knots? Say it in metrics, so we know what it means."

Corey had the answers instantly.

"Sixteen knots is just on 30 kph. Thirty knots is 56 kph."

The Prime Minister's head jerked to look at Corey.

"That was quick, or did you already know the answers?"

"I know the conversion rate and I’ve got a knack for numbers."

Rhys shook his head in mock disgust.

"We’re surrounded by number nerds, John. Kieran slaves me till my brain explodes. Tan’s nearly as bad, and Mr B teaches the stuff."

The PM wasn't listening. Instead he was looking at the movement in the water.

"That’s astonishing, Michael. Do you know their long-term cruising speed?"

"Depends on the make up of the pod. Norkus is the youngest and I’ve worked out that he’s happy with 17 or 18 kph. In another year that will be 20 or 22."

"Good grief! I see what you mean about a dawdle. Let the adventure begin."

"Well done, Michael. The PM and Gwen are relaxing more and more with every passing moment."

"I thought the island might give them more to think about than friendly orcas."

"I dampened their incredulity levels a few times and now they’re more accepting because they can't argue with the evidence of their own eyes. Did you ask the orcas to stay with us?"

"That’s a given, Kieran. They’ll stay with me until I tell them not to. You’re here too, so it’s a double whammy for them."

"Did you arrange that beautiful singing. It caught me by surprise."

"Me too. I’ve heard a few of their songs but that was extra special."

"Arthur’s wondering why we’re staring at the orcas. Get the boat moving, Michael."

***

The island hove into view with every pair of eyes scanning every feature as it became apparent.

"It’s quite big. I was picturing a few cliffs poking out of the ocean."

"The map shows nearly eight km at the longest and about five across."

The trip had been interrupted twice when the orcas located food, and it was late afternoon when the boat made its careful way through the entrance, veered eastward into the hook shaped inlet, then stopped some thirty m from a rocky beach. Rhys and Mr B hurried to get the little inflatable ready for its ferrying job.

***

"How much time should we allow?"

The planning discussion was pretty much ended. Tan was asking and Mr B glanced at Michael before answering.

"The whole day, Tan. There’s a lot to see and do, and there’s no point in feeling rushed. A serious observation at the rookeries will take time and if getting there’s tricky that will take time too. There’s also –"

Tan was waving a hand to stop him.

"I was thinking about food, Mr B. We’ll take enough for lunch and a few snacks. Rhys can help me pack enough for everybody."

"Me? You mean Nathan don't you? Youngest one is always the cabin boy."

"I’ll do that. I’m ready and waiting, and I might learn something from Tan."

Rhys laughed, shook his head at the PM, and went with Tan.

Everyone was ready really, dressed for the day's range of activities, daypacks ready to receive Tan's food parcels, and all looking eager.

Kieran smiled at the excitement bubbling from Nathan at the prospect of the coming adventure and Rom’s alert reaction.

Corey caught Kieran's smile.

"Are you smiling at Nathan, Kieran?"

"He can hardly believe what’s happening. Everything he expected for his holiday with Tan keeps getting amplified."

"I feel the same, actually. Before you took me to the Realms I’d always been an indoor person, and yesterday was the start of the first real holiday I can remember. I met friendly orcas.

At the mention of orcas Kieran automatically glanced to see what they were up to - and did a double take. Every dorsal fin he could see was heading directly toward the boat.

"Michael, what’s with the orcas?"

Michael was already watching the convergence and when he didn't answer Kieran started a surface skim of his thoughts.

Whoo! The curious fuzz that surrounded Michael's orca communication was almost too strong to penetrate and it was several seconds before it stopped.

"Something’s put them on alert and they think we need protecting."

"Did you notice anything unusual a few minutes ago?"

"Not really, well I did wonder what it would be like if the island got fogged in, but it was just a stray thought."

"I thought it would be a pity if mist blocked the rookery from sight."

A soft shrill of sound began and Kieran turned a full 360 to take in the sight of nineteen orcas completely surrounding the boat.

"Michael, that’s not a happy sound. It’s making me feel –"

 

***