Chapter 35

Meaningful Messages

All night my dreams replayed that mesmerizing journey and our meeting with the divine creatures. I woke refreshed and rested; glad I’d been with Yarrl as he learned of the momentous changes coming to his life. I hoped I’d be able to help him in some way; even if we had to go back to the Library to rescue scrolls. Surely he would never forget our visit with the Guardians as he made new life choices and completed the tasks ahead.

Yarrl got up with renewed energy. He also had dreamed of our encounter, and announced he understood everything and wanted to get to work.

When Arsenius appeared with breakfast, handfuls of berries and seeds, Yarrl told him about our journey into the void and what we’d learned from the transcendent beings.

“That was your vision, Yarrl, it will guide your work and your life from this day.” Arsenius was quiet and supportive. “These particular creatures are Guardians of Knowledge and Wisdom. Their visit validates the importance of your future work.

“Vulture, who represents both life and death, helped you realize that your old life is no more and it’s time to accept the life you have come into here. Your destiny is to work in the desert, a safer place than Alexandria. It will not be easy, there will be many challenges and always more to be learned. Your skills for selection and preservation will save recorded wisdom to benefit mankind far in the future.

“Crocodile confirmed your understanding of the importance of your work; he will always support and guide you. That transformational vision of your future work reminded you of the fulfillment to be found in helping others, whether today or in the future. And because all reptiles are sensitive to their environment, he has already helped you sense what is happening in Alexandria and understand that forces of change are beyond your influence or understanding. He will also help you adjust to desert life.

“Cat will help you become more independent as you open to this new life. You will gain confidence as you find the best ways to use your knowledge and skills. You must remain strong and steady as the processes of preparation and preservation are repeated over and over.

“These creatures are your personal guides. They will be with you until your final days. They exist in a realm beyond this physical world; a permanent, unchanging reality that is more vast and wonderful than humans can imagine. Right now, everyday reality seems to be all there is. But the challenges you face and problems you solve will also help you learn about and prepare for the next world. Remember, we are each one a spirit being who lives a dream in this world.”

A bit of Gnostic philosophy in that statement, I thought, as I folded my blanket.

“Yes,” Arsenius said, as he gave me a knowing glance. “And you, Artemus, also received direction from the animal spirits. Think about this whole experience when you return to your place of origin. You must heed Crocodile’s instruction and allow another desert to be your home for a while. That will be important for your own life journey.”

Arsenius had brought the twentieth century into my head. I wondered if a similar catastrophe for knowledge could happen then. I thought it likely Arsenius knew why I was here with Yarrl and all about me; maybe more than I could imagine. Yarrl was too busy working out his own future to notice what Arsenius had said to me; but maybe someday he’ll remember last night and wonder about me.

Those few words from Arsenius had given me a lot to think about, too. I wondered what I’d do when I returned. Would I seriously consider going to a desert? I’d never thought of such a thing before; but this desert experience had broadened my perspective. I liked very much the meditation and meeting up with animal beings. But first I’d like to stay here for a while; I was pretty sure there was more to learn. I wondered if Arsenius meant I’d return soon to my own time and place. Today I didn’t want to think about that or Digital World or anything else back home.

Later, I saw Yarrl frown and wondered if he was having second thoughts; so I reminded him of the support he would now have from Arsenius and the animal beings. And I told him how glad I was to be on this journey with him as I also had learned much. He lightened up, but I knew it would take time for him to fully understand and be comfortable with his new mission. I also knew he would be able to do it all and be glad.

“First we’ll return to Baramus, and then move on to the Valley of the Caves!” Arsenius smiled at us both. I was glad we’d find the caves soon. That had been Yarrl’s only goal when we left Alexandria so many days ago. Now he had that and so much more on his mind.

I noticed Yarrl beginning to feel anxious again and had a feeling his mind was in a jumble thinking about the many tasks ahead. Working in the Library, he never had to deal with something like removal of texts from a monastery. That could be tricky if the monks didn’t like the idea. He’d also have to find large clay jars for storing the documents.

“Don’t worry Yarrl, the work won’t be too difficult, there will be many willing assistants; and I know of a source for the clay jars.” Arsenius grinned.

“You needn’t fear the demons any longer because you are protected by three animal spirits; nothing can harm you.”

 NEXT.....Chapter 36
News from Alexandria