"Victory goes to the player who makes the next-to-last mistake." -Chessmaster Savielly Tartakower
WHY WONT YOU JUST GO AWAY! Thats the question you have got to be asking yourself Wildfire. Seeing my name on the card against you probally brought a smile to your face. You probally creamed your jeans knowing that you had a chance to get another win. Lets see Wildfire versus everyone in this match = Wildfire loses. Yeah right. I am telling you and everyone elsein this fed that I was not going to stand by and let you all run rough shod over this place. I am telling you I will defend the ER even if no one else sees fit. Do you really think I am going to let you all cake walk your ways to the top. Let me give you a little history lesson. About me and this great company.
I started in the fed a no body. I worked and worked hard to be where I am. Nothing you say about me can change the fact that I am still here. I may be a lacky compared to the talents of a Mr PPV,Big Ging,Mad Dog etc. But you know anyone of those people I mention will tell you that I can bring it with the best when I need to. I took Mad Dog to the edge three times, even though he came out on top.. I have had my ass kicked by people several times and have faced just about everyone that has ever claimed to be a Gladiator. See Wildfire I didn't just fall off the truck. I know how to do my job and do it well.
Some of us have been here through the best times and the worse times. You like to rag on guys who dont keep their contracts and slack when it comes to the air time. Lets see the great Wildfire would never miss a match would he. No of course not because then people wouldn't get to see him for him. They wouldn't get to see his star shine bright. Maybe guys seen you booked in this match and they said well we loose and decided that will just show up sunday and take the loss. Not me of course. Maybe Im just to crazy to see the writing on the wall. I may need someone to slap some sense into me and bring me down to reality. Maybe I need to be told that Im not good enough to hang with the likes of Wildfire or Big Ging. Wait no thats not right, because that all you do. You run that mouth of your about how good you are and about how much I suck. Maybe I do and maybe you are the best thing going into this match. But rest assured when the match is over and all you have left is your buddy's shoulder to cry on. Know you were beaten not by a superstar. You were beaten by a man who just does his job.
Wildfire has given his life to this business. Thats very profound. Do you think your the only one who has had to suffer to get somewhere.I suffered alot of hardships in the GWA before I came here... I dont hold any disrespect for those guys that I fought over there. But Im not there anymore am I. Now you are here in my world giving me a hard way to go. You know I may not be good enough to be in the ring with you. But how good do I have to be. That right there makes me think anyone could have gotten into this company. For someone with as much talent that you claim to have you sure do spend alot of time telling people how good you are. You know a physcologist might say your trying to compensate for something. You talk tough and like to boost your image because you lack in a certain area. Lets see using the knowledge a physcologist would use on those two things I would say you lack self image becuase of your penis size and you are really a queer and thats why you have infatuation with guys..like Big Ging he has that problem too.. And the fact that your best friend and partner is gay. Did I hit a nerve there Wildfire. Or are you just shocked that someone you just met has already figured out the only reason you started in the business was to roll around with sweaty men. I dont know. I may have to think twice about getting into the ring with you.
ONCE......TWICE......Aw screw it. Im going to just go ahead and kick your teeth down your throat. You don't uderstand nothing do you. You are faceing me not because the ERis holding you back. Your faceing me because if you can't beat me..Face the reality Wildfire in the ER your just a common thug. No more of a superstar than I am. I know that hurts. And someday when you come down off the crack high you are on, you will understand what I saying is true.
Now if you dont mind I was telling a story. Some people may be enjoying it and some like you may not. I don't really care.
"South America"
Pam: What is wrong Hayle, you look upset?
Jackie: yeah Hayle what is bugging you man, I thought you were down for this whole trip, I mean you even got Pam and me to go with you.
Hayle: I just sit here and think, I brought you guys into this, we are risking our lives, and for what, because I need to do everything in power to help my dad. Maybe Im just being selfish. But whats really eatting at me. Is that somewhere Wildfire is sitting back getting ready for me. He is watching tape and trying to pick me apart. I can take a chair shot big deal theres a hundered other guys in this business that can do that. I know that he thinks he is one up on me. When in realty he's not. And now he is somewhere preparing to take me out for good. And what am I doing Im going to South America with a couple friends in search of a root that may or may not exsist. I just.....Im sorry.
Jackie: Sorry for what Hayle, you didn't do anything. We decided on our own that we were going to come with you on this journey, didn't we Hayle?
Pam: Yes, Jackie is right for once Hayle. Don't put all the blame on yourself when there wasn't even anything you did to be blameful of. Besides we know what you are going through. we know how bad you want you dad back. And we know that you hate to think that you may loose to Wildfire. Its in your nature to want to be the best.
Hayle: Just think though, if Jae deer wouldn't have whacked me we wouldn't even be in this bind. I let my gaurd down. I shouldn't have down that. I made a mistake and took him lightly. And for it I have a bad arm and am going into a match with it. I maybe in for more of a fight then I thought.
Jackie: Hayle, don't blame yourself for what that ass Jae Deer did to you. Come Sunday you are going to be full strength against Wildfire and you are going to show him why you are a legend.
Pam: Hayle you can't expect a little thing like a loss in a match every once in a while...but you will destroy this chump come Sunday.. You have to get to South America and get that root to help your father.
Hayle: You guys are great you know that, I don't know what I would do without you guys.
Pam: Oh Hayle you are such a sweetheart. (kisses Hayle)
Jackie: I like ya two man but I am not going to kiss you.
Hayle gets up, what looks like a tear is shown in the corner of his eye. It cannot be confirmed as a tear but it might be just that, the unemotional Hayle with a tear of joy. They all leave the room and head for the door. Hayle looks back at his house as they leave. Memories, and the nice house he once lived in with his parents. Hayle thinks of what he has, and what he doesn't have. He thinks to himself, he would trade it all to get his dad healed, he really would. Hayle thinks of what he has that really won't mean anything to him once he is gone from life, once the only thing that matters is what type of person he is. The car ride is short, a short conversation ensues on the way there.
Hayle: South America huh guys? This is pretty far away from St. Louis. Here I am used to cement sidewalks and large towering buildings and skyscrapers, and now we are going to a village that is probably made of mud and clay, and has no heat and little food. Kind of makes you wonder doesn't it guys?
Jackie: Yes, it does make me wonder. You think you have it all and then when you have everything you want, you want more. The greed in this country is horendous. Some people out there have nothing, while others have the world in their hands.
Pam: How very insightful Jackie. I never thought I would hear such thoughtful words coming out of your mouth, you know you really can suprise me sometimes. I too agree with you both, we are being taken from the technological age back to the early American civiliazation age in American times. I wonder what interesting people we will meet there. I wonder who this Dugluss person is that we are meeting is?
Hayle: Hopefully everything down here works out. I just want to get there, go get the root, and get out. That is it. How bout' you guys?
Pam: Yeah I really don't want to stay out of country any longer than we have to. Kind of an in and out job I would like.
Jackie: I agree with you guys also. Although it would be nice to make friends with people of other religious and ethnic background, I feel this is a job, and we have to do it. Anything we can avoid is what will make this thing go quicker. Oh, it looks like we are here.
Hayle pulls over and begins to gather the luggage as he gets out. He takes it and loads it into the plane, which is rather small for the hefty price he paid. The others get out and begin to grab items. A man with a grey beard and a patch over his left eye walks up. He has a leather bomber jacket on, light brown in color, with stripes that have been sewn on. He smiles as he sees the three unloading gear. He grabs a bag, one of the lighter ones because of his older age, and walks it to the plane. He then turns and introduces himself.
Gadget: Good day there everyone. I am your flight attendant Mr. Rutherford Harris OShultzesee, but everyone calls me Gadget. So you doing some sight seeing down there in South America? Oh I have been down there hundreds of times, did I ever tell you about the time I fought off the whole South American air force see, yeah they had one plane, and I only could throw rocks at them, and I was going....
As the man tells the story Hayle turns and finishes unloading all the luggage.
Gadget:......And here I am today. Would you believe it, after all that?
Hayle: Simply incredible. You know, they should write a book about you sometime, all those adventures, all that excitement.
Gadget:A book eh', excitement eh', well I have excitement. Did I ever tell you about the time when I shot down a German plane with my eyes closed, or about the time when....
Hayle: Gadge, the only excitement I want right now is for you to get on that plane and fly up to our destination. When we are in the air you can tell all the stories you want, so long as we get there and we get there fast.
Gadget: Will do there sir eh', I mean Mr. Adams sir. Everyone all aboard. There is alot of plane flying to be done so let's get this show on the road.
Jackie: Hey, guy kind of sounds like me. I wonder if he ever was someone's agent. Hmmm...
Pam: Jackie, get in the plane. We got a root to grab.
The party gets in the plane. The plane is very small, and can just barely fit our three heros and there luggage. The tiny cockpit is where Gadget sits, and the rest of the group crowds into a small area in the back. Gadget starts screaming to them, cause of the engine noise, and the party is soon sleeping.
An estimated 9 hours later, Pam wakes up. It is dark outside of the plane. She looks around, Jackie is sleeping soundly with his head rested on a backpack and towel. Even Gadget is not making a sound, who has run out of stories to tell and has stuck to flying the plane. She turns to Hayle, who is sitting there, staring out the window of the small plane. The setting is peaceful, there is nothing but the engine noise, which is actually soothing, to listen to. Pam looks at Hayle.
Pam: Whatcha thinkin about Hayle?
Hayle: Can't sleep, there is no hope in sleeping. If I sleep, I can't be there to see it when we arrive. Right now I can't afford to miss anything.
Pam: You'll need your strength you know, we'll need it. You only have one good arm Hayle, you should rest up because it is going to be used tomorrow for sure.
Hayle: Yes, I know this. I just can't help but question what this jungle is going to be like? I mean is it explored jungle, new territory.
Pam: I am sure we will be fine Hayle, we have already escaped death once, closed corridors, now we just might have to do a little running, you know?
Hayle: Yeah, I wonder what is out there. Lions, tigers, bears, man eating plants, who knows? I worry about you guys.
Pam: Don't worry Hayley. Worrying has gotten us nowhere, maybe even said, worrying has lost us time. We just have to push on, ya know. That is always what you tell us. Push on, you say Hayle. You tell us alot of stuff, and Jackie and I, we listen. You might not know it, but we do.
Hayle: Thank you Hayle. You really mean alot to me. I like you alot. Hayle?
Pam: Well thank you Hayle. What is it Hayle?
Hayle: Since we might never see each other again, you know, if something goes wrong, would you, ya know, me and you?
Pam: You want me to have sex with you right here Hayle!!!? Jackie is here and everything.
Hayle: No no, not that. I am saying, if we make it back to civilization. Would you consider going out as more then buddies.
Pam: Oh Hayle that is sooo sweet, of course I will go out with you.
Hayle: Good, I was hoping you would say that. I have wanted to ask you before, I mean you are the perfect girl, but I figure no time is better than now.
Pam: Well I like you alot too Hayle, and I think we share a deep bond with each other. Now Hayle, get some sleep, we should be there soon.
Pam moves over towards Hayle, and lays with him. They both fall asleep and there is a silence. Edwards gets up and gazes at the stars in the sky. He thinks about all he has come from, and where he is now. He has a new lease on life so to say, and he plans to take advantage of it. Jackie soon falls back to sleep. Gadget looks at the tired crew. He thinks of when he was younger, all of the fabulous adventures he went on, all the places he has been. A tear trickles down his cheek. He wipes it away and flies. Peace.
Gadget: Rise and shine there young air mates, we have landed on the objective and are on scheduled time. It rained late last night, but it was only some light showers. We are now just outside of the city of Varoko, your destination. Planes are not permitted to fly around Varoko or they are extinguished.
Jackie: Extinguished, how so? What, do they throw rocks at this hunk of junk or something? (laughs)
Gadget: Well how else do they blow the planes out of the sky these days, homing missiles of course. Now we are going to have to sneak into Varoko, and try to mingle in. Sources say there is a large group of thieves hiding out here, and they are carrying weapons I have heard.
Pam: Wow, sounds worse than downtown St. Louis, don't it Hayle? At least in St. Louis there were some police of some sort.
Jackie: Thieves or no thieves, we are getting in. We have come all this way and we are not turning back now.
Pam: Yeah, Sharp is right, we have to press forward, even if we have to sneak in.
Hayle: Alright guys, let's get out of here, we have to hit this place early. They still probably have hangovers from the night before if we hit them early. Gadget, thank you for your services, although expensive, you held your part of the bargain. Just don't forget to pick us up at this same spot tomorrow morning at the latest.
Gadget: Oh you don't have to worry about my punctuality Hayle, cause I am going with you.
Hayle: Your going with us, what do you mean there Gadget, on the whole journey and everything?
Gadget: Oh boys, I miss the adventure so much, I just have to go. Let me just cover the plane with some rather larger branches and it will be hidden away. No one comes over here anyway.
Hayle: Hey Gadget, if you want to come with us, you are welcomed to do so, but just to warn you, it is going to get a little bit heated out there if you know what I mean.
Gadget: I hear ya loud and clear with a big ten four and I am up for anything that happens to go on during your adventures.
Hayle: Okay, well then, pleasure to have you aboard with us Gadget. Everyone, Gadget has decided to come along with us. Let's all grab some leafy sticks and cover this plane.
Jackie: Alright Gadget, pleasure to have you aboard with us man. I am sure you have alot of useful information that you would like to indulge us with.
Pam: Yeah Gadget, I am sure you will be a great asset to our party. Welcome aboard.
Gadget: Thanks guys, I feel like one of the team again. It is a pleasure to go with you into the jungle and into Varoko. So Jakk, where do we go from here?
Hayle: Well, from what Zmerelda told us, long story short Gadget, she was a shaman who told me how to find this root we are here for, we have to enter this town and find a man named Dugluss.
Jackie: So what are we waiting for, let's get to this town before we die of old age out here.
The party gathers the neccessary gear to be walking through the jungle, and then leave for the town of Varoko. The area is a torrid jungle, the only clearing seems to be made slightly be the plane and by luck of an open clearing. All jungle. Jakk carries his machete in one hand, and a back pack with the essentials, water, food, etc. It is the only pack being carried, although Edwards carries along a small satchel. Pam carries a sidepack with water, as does Gadget. Gadget and Edwards also carry machetes, to cut through the thick jungle. Many wild animals can be seen, snakes, birds, smaller insects, all in their natural habitat. A roar can be heard throughout the jungle, afterwards, a flocking of birds moving away. A water fall can be heard making waves, and it is a very peaceful and serene sound. Light shines in through the high tree tops. Each tree is more than 400 feet tall, and very, very wide. The party looks at them, astonished. A large tarantula walks up the tree, as Pam moves closer to Hayle. Pam also carries a special tape that Hayle had ordered a while back. It is glow in the dark tape. Every 200 feet or so Pam Jackies a tree with a plus sign of tape, thus Jackieing their trail. After a few hours of walking, many bugs and snakes, the party views a large, wooden looking village, enclosed with a large, wooden gate and a closed entrance. The party walks up to the gate, as they know not what to do, and knock on the wooden gate. A slot open in the door, and the person's eyes, red, look at the party. Pam jumps back as she sees the person's eyes. The slot then closes, and a big gate opens up. Edwards begins to take a step forward but Hayle holds him back with his casted arm. He points to a leave covered trench on the ground with his machete. Jackie looks at Hayle, and neither say a word. They stand still. Finally, five minutes later, a man who looks much more noble than the person standing beside him, walks up to them. The door guard goes back to his post and watches the gate.
Lyon: Have you business here weary wanderers? Perhaps quarters for the long walk. Where have you come from?
Hayle is about to speak before Gadget cuts in and answers.
Gadget: We are from North America. We have come in search of a root, used for healing. We have told no one about this location, and we wish it to stay that way. We are merely here at your village looking for a person by the name of Dugluss. Would you know such a man?
Lyon: Perhaps, but your story seems faint. Why would you come all the way down here to look for a root?
Gadget: Sir, if you will give your attention to the young lad, he comes in serch of the healing power of the Baoko root. We talked with a girl named Zmerelda, and she told us to come here and find a root.
Lyon: Liar!! No one has talked to Zmerelda in years.
Gadget: Sir no word I have spoken is false. These three have visited her, and she has sent them here.
Lyon: So how did you get here then young lass, if I may ask.
Gadget: We walked...er, I mean, we parachuted out over a few fifty miles away from your boundries that we are fully aware of.
Lyon: Old man your tongue cannot hide your shame. If you wish to inquire about Dugluss, you must fight for it. Which one of you wishes to fight?
All four of the weary travelers looks at each other. Pam cannot fight by any means, and Gadget is too old and frale. Edward is fit but by no means able to fight, so once again, it is up to Hayle to save his party.
Hayle: I will fight you highness, it will be my honor.
Lyon: Ah, so the traveler with the cast who is searching for the root and man named Dugluss wishes to fight. Well I will go easy on you, you have to fight, oh say, Golem. The only man here who hasn't lost a fight. Good luck, you will be at the square in ten minutes.
The man, who is known as Lyon, walks away from the group. The party enters the town for the first time. It is quaint for a small town, very organized, very clean, looks like it has been run in good order. Hayle heads to the middle of the town, where he can see hundreds of people, must be everyone in town, there to watch the show. The man who is known as Golem stands at the center of the square. The upper class man sits on a type of throne higher up to catch the best seat. Hayle walks into the circle and the other three party members sit on a bench near their man. The man speaks.
Lyon: Ladies and gentleman, this man comes here seeking a root, and the whereabouts of a Dugluss character. If he shall step forward, these may be granted, but shall he step forward is when he acknowledges that he will fight to the death against the only man who has never been beaten, Golem! Choose your fate wisely young traveler.
Hayle looks behind him at his friends, and he sees the expectations in their eyes. Hayle needs the root, he needs to talk to Duglass, he needs to fight, he needs to win. Hayle cautiously takes a step forward, and the crowd cheers, for the fact that they will see a bloody mess.
Lyon: Your fate has been chosen, may you rest in peace my strange traveler.
The fact that this man doesn't know Hayle Adams makes him smirk. Rage clots his blood, he looks at the man named Golem. This man is gigantic, has to be a good 7 feet tall. He weighs in excess of 400 pounds. Hayle's feeling are that he is just a big waste of space. Golem laughs at Hayle, who still measures up at 7 feet tall, and around 325 pounds. Golem cracks his knuckles and moves towards Adams. Hayle has the quickness advantage, but the cast just kills him. Hayle moves as Golem follows. Golem grabs Hayle, and bear hugs him. Hayle is being squished to death. His friends pray and cheer for him, but he looks hopeless. Finally, Hayle head butts the man a few times, just enough to let Hayle go, and Hayle hits the ground dizzy. He gets back on his feet slowly and punches Golem a few times. Golem falls to the dirt. Hayle stands on him with one leg, cocky. Golem jumps up, and grabs Hayle's leg. He spins him around a few times and throws him through some barrels. Golem then moves towards the fallen Hayle and goes to pick him up, but he is not there. He looks up and sees Hayle on a metal bar. He swings to gain momentum and then dropkicks Golem right in the head. The crowd loves it. Golem slams the dirt and is out cold. Hayle waits, and waits, and waits, still on guard. Golem does not get up. He lays there, motionless. The cheering crowd has become silent. The king of the town looks puzzled also. Golem is not moving, he is not breathing. Golem, is dead. An aid to the king walks over and checks Golem, and then nods to the king. Golem is dead. Hayle has survived. Hayle has earned what he has earned.
Lyon: Young noble, you have proved yourself worthy of the information you request. You may report to my chambers at once. Everyone, this man has done the unthinkable, and you shall honor him as your holiness. That is all.
Everyone leaves as if nothing has happened. About 10 of the king's servants slide Golem off of the dirt, with no avail. The king also leaves. Hayle and the gang gather each up. Pam kisses Hayle's lips. He has some slim cuts on his face, but other than soreness that is it.
Pam: Hayle, oh Hayle you were amazing in there. I never thought yo would be able to defeat that man. He was like, bam, all over you, I was so afraid I would never be able to see you alive again.
Hayle Oh, well thanks, I am a little sore but I will be okay. Let's go and see the king, he said he had information.
Jackie: Alright Hayle, and man, you were an animal in there. I haven't seen you like that in awhile. You do know that you were just a real Gladiator Ring. Not some canvas with ropes thrown around it. You just stepped into the ring with a mad man who wanted to kill you. And you walked away. You do that Wednesday and Wildfire will be nothing but a memory
Gadget: Good job Hayle, you were one hell of a fighter in there. Kind of reminds me of my old days before...
The party leaves and goes for the castle area, where the king had departed. Everything is wooden, and everything is clean and neat. They head towards a large gate, and the gaurds let them pass. They seem sort of afraid of the man, where has just nothing before. Hayle and company walk to a large hall, where the king sits on his throne and another young man stands beside him. Hayle walks up to them, and the other three sort of just hang around by the door.
Lyon: Dugluss, this is Hayle Adams, this is the man I was telling you about just now.
Dugluss: Hayle Adams huh, sounds kind of familiar. So you beat the Golem huh, he was one tough sob if you ask me, how did you ever do it.
Hayle: I made him fear me. I made him think he could lose, and the second that happened, I had him. ---Click--- ( Just like that Hayles mind cleared up and he knew that this Sunday was going to be his day. What he had just said was all that he had to say. He has put the fear of god in Wildfire and now he knows that Wildfire knows he can loose.)He was stupid anyways.
Dugluss: Ah, all psychological mumbo jumbo, very nice. Now I hear you talked to Zmerelda?
Hayle: That I did, I am in search of the root of Baoko, she told me to search for you? Can you help me Dugluss?
Dugluss: I know where the root of Baoko is, but you aren't going to find it around this village. Deep in the jungle, maybe 300 miles from here, there lay a tree. This isn't just any tree, but an everlasting one. This tree will never die. Some around here predict it to be 10,000 years old, others, more. This tree and this tree alone carry the Baoko root you inquire. Find that tree, and you find the root.
Hayle: 300 miles, that is alot of walking if you ask me. Any other transportation you have?
Dugluss: No, the only way to reach the Great Baoko tree is on foot, that is why it is never found. No one wants to find it. If you head out South out of this town, and continue to walk straight, it should be exactly 300 miles away. That is how Varoko was formed, by the distance of the Baoko tree and our fine city. If you would like my assistance, I will accompany you. It has been many a day since I last traveled to the Great Baoko tree. Would you like me to join you?
Hayle: Sure, you can join us if you would like that. You strength will be very vital as my arm is still weak. We just need to hurry so we can get back before tonight. I have to get back to the states. Are you ready to go Dugluss?
Dugluss: Yes, we will departure at once from this fine city and head South, for the Great Baoko tree. You highness, I shall return. Hayle I am going to get a few things. Be right back.
Dugluss leaves the room and the king and Jakk talk for a few.
Lyon: Jakk, in case you do not know, I am King Lyon of the Varoko village. I have served these people for quite some time now, and we are a very nice village.
Hayle: I can see that, everything is so clean here, and organized. You did a fine job.
Lyon: Thank you, so what do you really need the herb for.
Hayle: My profession is a professional wrestler. This Sunday I have a match. And I cant focuss on it because of my father. I need the to root to heal him.
Lyon: Ah I see, the root of Baoko. This root is a very powerful root, known for its healing power. Some have called it the true fountain of youth. She is a smart woman that Zmerelda. And she is very old. I would say around 125
Hayle: That she is, very knowledgable. Nice woman too, even though she almost killed us all.
Lyon: Well Jakk you know you are always welcome back here any time you please. Just please give me your word that you will not tell anyone about this place.
Hayle: I give you my word. I will definitely come back some time and visit you guys. Although I barely know you, I can say we will be great friends.
Lyon: And the same goes for myself Hayle.
Hayle smirks and The king smiles as Dugluss walks into the room carrying a satchel.
Dugluss: Guys, I am ready to leave. May we depart Hayle?
Hayle: Yes, let us not waste time. King, good day to you and may you live long and prosperous. Dugluss, let's go. Everyone, Dugluss will be coming with us to the Great Baoko Tree to get the root. If you don't know him this is Dugluss.
Jackie: Pleasure to have you with us there Dugluss, I am sure we will need you on this trip.
Pam: Yes, I am sure you know these woods better than any man out there, you can help navigate with me.
Gadget: I am Gadget sir Dugluss. It is a pleasure to meet you, I am rather new to this bunch myself.
Dugluss: Okay guys, let's get out of here. It is a long trek so make sure all your water bottles are filled up, and then meet at the gate for departure.
Everyone fills their water jugs as they prepare to leave the village. Pam stops in the shop and purchases a few small trinkets to put in her satchel. She pays with a few seashells she had brought with her prior. Everyone meets at the gate. The head count is Hayle, Jackie, Pam, Gadget, and Dugluss. Everyone is ready.
Dugluss: We are about to enter the jungles of Yeotaba, is everyone prepared?
Gadget: Ready for departure Sir Dugluss sir. Cadet Gadget reporting for duty.
Jackie: I am ready Dugluss, whatever is out there, I am ready for it. I think I can handle it given the circumstances.
Pam: Dugluss, I will follow along as far as we go on this journey. Hayle, you too.
Dugluss: Jakk, are you ready to go, you will lead with me?
Hayle: You will lead Dugluss, you are the better navigator, but I will follow closely behind. Let's move out.
The group sets off on their hike through the long, tough jungle ahead. The first 50 miles are easy, not much wildlife to bother, and not much branch to cut. They party makes it along fine. They continue, the next 100 miles is tough, Edwards, Jakk, and Dugluss cut away at bushes containing snakes and insects, and leaves obsquring the path. After the 150 mile Jackie, the group sits down to take a quick snack and replenish water before carrying on.
Pam: Wow, we have already walked half of the way, this doesn't seem like alot but it is very much just that.
Jackie: Are you kidding me, it feels like we have been walking for days on end here. When does it end?
Gadge: Oh, my old legs just can't take all this abuse. I must have stepped on a hundred snakes by now. I say we keep going
Hayle and Dugluss talk separately with each other at the break site.
Dugluss: We are actually making very good time to get there and back. We should just get out of the big brush before night fall but I have some flares and what not that we can use.
Hayle: Yes, as long as we keep the others moving along at a decent pace, we should be good. Let's go.
The group refuels and then heads back through the jungle. They get about 250 miles, and then suddenly there is a loud roar. The group can hear breathing from a large animal, but they stick to the side of the trees and sneak on. Hayle keeps his machete handy. They finally make it to a clearing, and there is a huge tree in the center of it. Hayle looks up at it in astonishment. The tree almost looks, unreal. He drops to his knees and grabs his face, they have made it, they are there. Pam kneels down and hugs Hayle, and kisses him on the cheek. Edwards and Gadget smile. Dugluss walks calmly up to the tree, which has a hole in the middle. Pixie dust seems to be falling from the tree top of the Baoko tree. Dugluss looks at Hayle. He waves him over.
Dugluss: Hayle, come over here. This is what you are looking for I believe.
Hayle hurridly scurries up to the base of the tree, and looks at what Dugluss is pointing too. It seems to be some sort of detached root, just laying there inside the hole in the tree like it was meant for someone else but the tree. Hayle takes the root from the tree. Sparkles shine from it. The root is not like a dull root, it looks just like a magical root. Hayle holds it in his hands.
Dugluss: As far as I know your father will have to eat it whole, just like it is, the whole thing. That is as far as I know Hayle.
Hayle: This will bring my father back to me. This is all I need to make him whole again. Dugluss I can't thank you enough. Gadget you got us here and for that I am for ever in your debt. Jackie and Hayle I dont think a person could ask fro a better friend then you two. With this root I have saved my father. And I owe it all you each of you.
A sense of happiness comes over the whole crowd. They all begin to dance and laugh. Then there is a big roar. A giant tiger stands at the base of the forest. He snarls as spit drools from the mouth. Hayle walks up to within feet of the tiger, then within inches. He snarls himself. They eye each other down, tiger and man. Then, almost in slow motion, the tiger snaps at Hayle, and with quick instinct, Hayle lunges his head back and cracks the tiger in the jaw with a hard fist. The tiger then scurries away as he yelps. The crew thanks Hayle for his courage, and he nods......
Pam: Hayle......Hayle......Hey wake up. You know where you are?
Hayle: Im in the jungle.
Pam: Your in the hospital. You suffered a severe concussion Sunday Night. Jae deer did a number on you. You have been fading in and out. We have all been worried.
Hayle: I just had a dream.....Hayle be honest with me....How is my dad?
Pam: He is fine. He went home from the hospital a couple days ago. Something came over him and he just started getting better.
Hayle: Thank you God!