Islamondo: The Island World. A Free Story.

 

 

(This story was written primarily as a world building exercise. Islamondo, A Poetic Fantasy, was created using this story as a basis.) Read it here:

Islamondo: The Island World.

A Short Story In Seven Parts

By Alison Lawrence

Part One:

Unos.

It was a hard climb to the top of Mount Una, but the two strong, young men barely broke a sweat on their upward journey. Once at the top, Venturer put down his pack and just stared. His grin was as wide as the valley below and he could not contain his joy as he let out a whoop.

His friend, Emir clapped him on the back and laughed. "This view has stolen your tongue hasn't it? All you can do is holler. It's a wondrous creation, isn't it?"

"Words truly fail." Venturer agreed.

***

The people of Unos were called Adventurers. They were strong and fit with brown complexions, suited to their adventurous life. When an Adventurer became twenty, he or she would embark on a sea-faring adventure, either alone or in pairs.

Venturer and Emir were only days away from starting out on theirs.

"I can't wait to see the rest of Islamondo." Venturer added another log to the campfire, then gazed upwards at the heavenly light show. "Surely the other islands must be just as amazing as Unos."

"Perhaps, perhaps not. All we know about them comes from the stories we have heard. Deuze is larger than Unos."

"And Sixa is the largest."

"And then there's Quinzo, the southernmost island." Venturer poked at the fire with a stick, causing sparks to fly. "Some of the stories are quite strange. I have heard that on most of the islands, the people do not believe in a Creator."

Emir nodded. "I know. How weird is that? I've even heard that some of them believe they just appeared from nothing." He snorted in disgust. "I'm not sure I want to meet them."

"How sad that they do not believe in the Creator." Venturer's usually bright eyes became somber. "Would you believe me Emir if I told you that I must go tell them? This mission of ours is to be more than an adventure. We must help these poor creatures to see."

***

The following days were full of high-spirited anticipation as Venturer, Emir and their families prepared for the big send off. Venturer's mother Heledd sat outside her house calmly mending sails as she directed all the goings-on. It made her heart glad to think that her eldest son would soon become a true Adventurer. "Beca, Alys," she called to her daughters, "go down to the harbour and see what you can do to help. One day you will be going on your own voyages. Learn all you can from Venturer's preparations."

"We will go right away, Mama," Beca danced by carrying a basket on her arm, Alys at her side. Heledd waved them off with a smile. They were like two young olive trees, full of promise, beauty and strength. Her needle paused and closing her eyes, she thanked her Creator for the blessing of family.

***

Emir popped his head out of the hatch just as the girls climbed on deck. "I hope that's lunch you're carrying. We're starved." He grinned. 

"It is," Beca smiled, "and we've come to help." Emir smiled back, and his eyes sent a secret message her way. 

"Love is in the air," teased Venturer. He knew that Emir had his heart set on marrying nineteen year old Beca once he'd returned from his journey. In turn, Beca dreamed that her own journey would be an adventurous honeymoon.

"So, what can we do to help?" Alys placed her hands on her hips and surveyed the deck. The capable sixteen year old was ready to tackle any task.

"You can check the stores, and let us know what's missing." Offered Venturer. He went with her to the hold, leaving Emir and Beca on the deck.

"How I wish I was twenty," she sighed, as she shoved a long black curl behind her ear, "You and Venturer would have a passenger."

Emir chuckled softly and drew her into an embrace. "Oh, Beca, how I wish it were so. Can you wait a little, my love? First, we must marry, and then we will sail together, as husband and wife."

Beca laughed happily. "And may I choose our destination?"

"Of course. It will be your proving voyage after all. But now," he said in mock seriousness, "it is time to practice scrubbing decks."

***

Adventurers from all over the island came down to the harbour to give Venturer and Emir a big send-off two days later. Cheering and shouts of encouragement erupted as the sea breezes filled the boat's sails. Emir blew a last kiss Beca's way. She wore a long purple dress, and her dark curls blew around her face. Venturer waved one last time to his family, and to the crowd, then set his face towards the east.

***

The weather was all he'd hoped it would be, and the sky spoke promises of perfect sailing. Puffy white clouds breezed by above them, and the distant horizon was clear. Venturer knew however, that the weather could change in an instant, so he monitored the sky and the waves. Emir trimmed the sails and Venturer manned the tiller. With the wind behind them, they raced eastwards towards their first destination: the Island of Deuze. Unlike Emir, Venturer's heart was not trying to tug him back to Unos. There was no special young woman in his life yet, although he prayed daily that he would one day find her. His sea green eyes remained focused on the horizon, as he contemplated his mission. Since childhood, he had communed with his Creator amidst the wonders of creation. He knew without a doubt that the One who had made all things so well was as real as the boat he was sailing. Venturer had often heard the Creator's voice whispering in his ear: words of encouragement and hope. But the most pressing messages had come to him as the time drew near to set off on his journey: he was to tell the island peoples about the Great Creator. Venturer squinted as he watched the boat's sails balloon. He would need to stay in prayer. He had no idea how he would accomplish such a great task.

***

Part Two:

Deuze

The weather remained fair for the following two days, but turned on the third. The western shore of Deuze appeared through cloud and rain as Venturer and Emir struggled to keep their boat on course.

"Almost there," Yelled Venturer, " I see a cove below the cliffs."

"It will be good to feel the solid earth beneath my feet again." Emir shouted back.

Venturer dropped anchor in the calmer waters of the cove. "Let's stay on the boat 'til the storm passes over; then we'll row the tender to shore."

***

"These cliffs are immense." Venturer looked up in awe, the following morning, "it's much more rugged than Unos."

"They mine rubies here," said Emir, "but obviously, they fish too." An array of fishing boats rested along the beach. A few men looked up and watched the tender's approach. They were stocky, short men with pale skins and seemed to be getting ready to take their boat's out.

"Greetings," called Venturer as he and Emir disembarked. The men nodded and continued to load their nets. "We are from Unos. I am Venturer, and this is Emir."

One of the men, a tough looking character with a coarse black beard, grunted. "Unos, eh? The place where the people waste precious time adventuring around when they should be working? We've heard of you. And met your kind before."

"It sounds like you have only part of the story. We do enjoy adventure, it is true, but our people are very industrious. Our main industries are fishing and farming." Venturer said peaceably.

The man scoffed. "You will never get wealthy like that. We only fish because we want to. It's the mines that make us rich here."

"There is more to life than work and making money. On Unos, we commune with God in His creation."

At this the group of men laughed raucously. "You sound like a bunch of crazies," black beard scoffed, "everyone knows that there is no 'Creator,' as you put it. Look around, can you show him to us?"

Emir stepped forward. He was almost double the height of the islanders. His build and look was enough to quiet the men. Venturer's appearance was equally intimidating.

"We are not crazy. It seems to us that folk who don't believe in a Creator fit that word better."

Venturer held up a hand in a calming gesture. "We cannot show God to you. The Creator is Spirit. However, we can see Him with our spirit eyes. We see Him especially in the wonders of His world, for example, in these beautiful cliffs of yours."

Black Beard laughed again disparagingly. "Tell you what, seeing as I don't have to fish, I will take you to see something of true beauty."

***

Black beard, whose actual name turned out to be Donal, took them up in a cable car to the top of the cliffs. Once there, he spread his arms wide and smiled broadly. "That, young men, is the picture of beauty." An enormous mine lay before them. Digging machines growled and churned, and the small figures of men worked busily. Donal led them into the mine. Two men carrying explosives walked past and Donal began to chatter excitedly. "We use the most modern methods available to extract our rubies, but we will use even old-fashioned ones if it means getting more." He called a young man who was walking by with a pick over his shoulder. "Enver, I want you to show these two Adventurers around the mine and the island. Maybe it will help you to appreciate what you have."

Enver smiled despite his father's snide comment. "I'd be pleased to." His dark eyes were friendly, unlike Donal's. 

Donal nodded. "Good. I'll be off to do some panning. Can't think of a better way to spend my day off. Bring them up to watch, if you like." Donal hurried off, and Enver shook his head. "I apologize for my father. His whole life revolves around the extraction of rubies, but that is so for most of us, I'm afraid."

"But not for you, I'm guessing," Venturer walked at Enver's side as he went to put his pick away. 

"No. And I hope it never will be."

The three young men retreated to the edge of the mine and Enver gestured to its expanse. "To my father, and to many others, what you see before you is a picture of beauty, of success, and wealth. I, on the other hand, see greed and avarice. And I see the destruction of the Creator's magnificent world."

"Ah, I see," said Emir, "you are a kindred spirit."

Enver grinned, as he looked up at Emir and Venturer. "And your arrival has made my day. Come, let us go to my home. I will ask my mother for a picnic before we set out on our tour. There are still some unspoiled areas on Deuze."

***

"First, we will go to the waterfall,"he said, as they each shouldered a backpack. Skirting the busy town, Enver led them along a trail through a welcoming, cool, green forest. When Venturer glanced behind him, he saw a little line of children following behind them. "My siblings, and a few of their friends," explained Enver. "They love nothing more than to be outdoors when they have no chores or lessons." He smiled good-naturedly at the young ones. "I like to teach them a little of the Creator and his world when they are with me."

The trail wound slowly upwards, and after a while, they could hear the rushing sound of tumbling and falling water.

"Wow." Was all Venturer managed.

"Don't mind my friend, he has a way of being tongue tied around awe-inspiring sights." Emir laughed.

"Well, I have never seen such a grand waterfall." Venturer explained.

Enver and the others all burst into laughter. They made a merry group as they enjoyed their picnic at the viewing sight. Enver's mother had wisely packed extra food for the tall strangers and the little band of followers.

"Please tell us all about Unos, where you come from," Enver invited his guests, "but most of all, please tell us how you came to believe that there is a Creator."

***

Venturer and Emir ended up staying for a week on Deuze. As many hours as possible, given his work-schedule, were spent with Enver and his little band of followers. Donal even helped things along by insisting that his son conduct further tours. At the end of their stay, they checked over their boat and took on a few more provisions. 

"Please visit again," Enver urged, as the Adventurers climbed into their tender, "I promise to visit Unos one day too. It is about time that I had an adventure." He laughed.

"We will," Venturer felt emotional at this parting from someone so much like himself, "and you are welcome to visit us at any time."

As he helped launch the tender, Enver called out a last request. "And please pray that more of my people will believe."

***

Part Three:

Troise

The Adventurers tacked south for a while, before sailing in an easterly direction towards the island of Troise. The ocean spoke of turquoise and jade and the sky arched brilliantly above them.

"What do you know of Troise?" Emir asked as he brought their lunch up from below.

"Well, we should be there by evening. It is but a short distance from Deuze. Very handy for Troise, as they make jewelry from Deuze's rubies."

"I've heard they put a high value on knowledge and beauty," Emir took a large bite of his bread, "Perhaps they will be receptive to the idea of a Creator." 

"I pray so," smiled Venturer, "if they have questioning minds, there may be hope for them."

***

A few hours later, they dropped anchor in a picturesque harbour. All kinds of vessels bobbed sleepily at anchor while the sun painted a kaleidoscope of colour on the horizon.

"Looks like everyone's gone home. Let's go into the town and see if we can buy supper." Venturer secured the hatch and they made their way towards the shore along the jetty. Unlike the harbour, the town was buzzing: music played and many voices laughed and chatted in the streets. Venturer noticed that all of the people were dressed as though off to a special occasion. As he looked down at his casual outfit and worn sandals, he felt out of place. Oh well, we did just sail here. The market drew them with delicious smells. "Let's go," grinned Emir, "it won't matter how we're dressed at a market."

All the same, the two friends noticed a few raised eyebrows. Most of the women wore make-up, exotic hairstyles and beautiful dresses which glowed against their cocoa-coloured skin. The men wore smart apparel, with dress shoes and fancy hats.

"I wonder if today is some kind of celebration?" Emir whispered. Their noses led them to a café with outdoor seating where customers were enjoying grilled seafood. A lovely young woman was placing a jug on one of the tables. Venturer and Emir took a seat and patiently waited until they could get her attention.

"Good evening," she smiled, "welcome to Café Oseena. You are from far away?" She asked, studying their appearance not too discreetly.

"From Unos," said Venturer, "tell me, have we arrived on the day of a festival? Everyone seems to be dressed for a party."

The young woman threw back her head and laughed. "You are certainly strangers to Troise if you think that. Here, we dress up every day. It is important to look your best at all times. We prize beauty, but we are not shallow. The people of Troise are lifelong students."

"Perhaps you could tell us more about Troise after we have eaten. It sounds like an interesting place." Venturer said pleasantly.

"With gladness," the young woman smiled, "now, will it be grilled prawns? Or perhaps the fish of the day?"

***

Venturer and Emir enjoyed a relaxed meal. Once most of the other customers had left they ordered fruit drinks. "My name is Ceri," the young woman introduced herself after the Adventurers had given their names. "So, are you here for a holiday?"

"Not exactly," chuckled Venturer, "we are on our proving voyage. We must visit all the islands before we return home."

"I have heard of that tradition. You are to be commended for your desire to learn." Ceri re-filled their glasses from the jug. "As for me, I am just working here while I complete my studies."

"What are you studying?" Emir asked.

Pretty bracelets sparkled on Ceri's arms as she worked. "Oh, a bit of everything. Science and language. Jewelry design too. One day I will make exquisite pieces."

Venturer admired Ceri's spunk and her looks. She was one of the most attractive girls he'd ever seen, but he wondered whether her heart was as lovely.

"So, you are interested in the Creator's beautiful design, then?"

Ceri arched a perfect eyebrow. "Creator? I don't think so." She gestured to the crowds and to the street. "All of this was made by the people of Troise. We make the cloth and the jewelry. The houses and the decorations. Where does a Creator fit in?"

Venturer saw his chance. "I was referring more to the natural beauty of your island. And of course, the Creator made the gems that you use in your designs. Perhaps you could show us around some time?"

Ceri nodded and smiled, "sure. I'd like that. How about tomorrow morning, before my shift? You can meet me here."

***

The following day, Ceri led them to a market stall where cycles were hired out. "We will take the scenic route." She rode in front, a long braid falling down her back, towards the harbour, then along a wide promenade; past people strolling in their finery and a dazzling array of beach-front stores. It was certainly a busy, vibrant scene, but Venturer's and Emir's eyes were drawn to the deep green hills, verdant growth and enticing water. At last, the promenade grew quieter, and Ceri motioned for them to stop. She led them down a flight of stairs to the beach. Before them lay an idyllic cove: sheltered and pristine. Playful sea creatures pranced beyond the breakers and perfect seashells begged to be collected.

"So," laughed Ceri as she twirled on the sand, "how do you like our island?"

Emir took one look at Venturer's awe-struck face and decided to be the spokes-person. "We love it. It is truly spectacular. Thank you for bringing us here."

"You are welcome," she smiled as she sat gracefully on the sand. She liked the looks of both of her guests, but wrinkled her nose at their clothing. Although both young men had smartened up a little, their taste left a lot to be desired.

Venturer sat nearby and gazed out to sea. "The Creator has made all things well." He picked up the former home of a little sea creature. "The design of this shell is so intricate. The work of a designer, wouldn't you agree?" He smiled at Ceri.

Ceri held out her hand for the shell. "I have to admit that I have never thought much about who made things like these," she studied the patterns and colours, "quite inspiring."

"There are many equally exquisite designs all around us," Venturer gestured expensively, "they will provide endless inspiration for your jewelry designs."

Ceri was quiet for a while. She studied Venturer's face and saw a child-like wonder upon it.

"Please tell me more, Venturer. I'd like to know about this Creator you believe in."

***

"We have planted some seeds on Troise." Venturer grinned happily, as they sailed southwards a few days later.

"Yes, and even some of Ceri's friends seemed interested in what we had to say." Emir ducked as the boom swung past.

"Being on Troise, just settled something for me," Venturer said thoughtfully, "beauty and knowledge are all very well, but they can't beat wisdom."

***

Part Four:

Kwart

Venturer adjusted their course to a south-westerly direction. They clipped along, as Emir trimmed the sails. The weather was still in their favour. Venturer's main concern was that the wind would drop and slow down their progress, which it did, several hours later.

The two Adventurers settled in to wait for the wind to pick up. Venturer poured over his father's maps and instructions, while Emir dropped a line into the water, hoping to catch supper.

"If the wind picks up, we should make it to Kwart by Mid-day, tomorrow," Venturer guessed, "I know little of its people, only that they are friendly."

"I've heard that too," Emir re-baited his hook, "perhaps we will receive a warm welcome. Hey, why don't you leave those maps alone. Help me over here."

"Sure, but my company is not as interesting as Beca's," Venturer teased, "you must miss her," he offered kindly.

"I do," smiled Emir, "and no island beauty is going to tempt me. Once we are back on Unos, you'd best get ready to be my wedding attendant. How about you, Venturer? Are you hoping to find the perfect girl on our travels?"

Venturer shoved Emir playfully as baited his hook. "Perhaps. But the Creator's task needs to be completed first."

***

The wind pushed them playfully into Kwart the next day. They came to rest in a large, protected cove. As they prepared to go ashore, they noticed a large gathering on the beach. "Looks like there's a party going on. I wonder if they'll mind a couple of unexpected guests?"

"Only one way to find out."

A group of people waved and shouted from the beach, then ran forward to help pull the tender onto the shore. They were a rag-tag bunch of young and old, male and female. In contrast to the people of Troise, they looked unkempt, even alongside the two sailors. "Welcome to Kwart," a middle-aged man greeted them, "you are just in time to join our beach party."

"What are you celebrating?" Asked Venturer, looking around for clues. All he saw was a fire pit.

The man gave a loud guffaw. "Nothing. Here on Kwart, we don't need a reason to celebrate. Every day is a party."

"Sounds joyful." Said Emir a bit dubiously.

"It is. Food, beer, and music. All you need to make you happy. Where are you from?"

"Unos"

"Ah, Unos," the man scratched his head, "I've heard that they do a lot of mountain climbing and running to and fro there. Sounds a bit strenuous to me. Well, you're more than welcome to relax a bit with us."

Venturer shrugged at Emir, and together they followed the man towards the fire where a band was playing. They introduced themselves formally to their host, whose name was Beniah, and to the others standing about. 

"You have a lovely beach," said Venturer politely, "do you launch your fishing boats from here?"

"Now and again. Mostly, we fish from the shore. When we feel like it." Beniah laughed. He reached for a mug of beer and took a large swig. Obviously, the topic of work wasn't too popular, but Venturer tried again. "What are your industries?"

"Oh, a bit of farming, a bit of this and that. But, that's boring talk. Now it's time to have some fun. Come, I will introduce you to my wife and daughters." Beniah wobbled slightly as he led them over to a group of dancing men and women. He shouted out introductions, then left them with his giggling daughters, who'd obviously been imbibing too. Venturer and Emir nodded and smiled politely, and attempted to make conversation, but the girls just giggled and tried to get them to dance. "No thanks. I'm engaged, and he's on a mission that doesn't involve dancing. Thanks, but no thanks." Emir disentangled himself from the grasp of one of Beniah's daughters. "Let's go back to the fire. Maybe we can talk with some of the men." Suggested Venturer.

Beniah was nowhere to be found. Several other men were sitting around, beers in hand, all in various stages of inebriation. 

"Let's go back to the boat," said Venturer sadly, "there is no point in hanging around here."

***

The following day, the two Adventurers went off in search of a town. When they did find one after a short walk through some sand dunes, it was a disappointing sight: the town had a shut up look. A few chickens and goats could be seen and a few old people and children sitting in the sun. Venturer and Emir greeted these politely, but received blank stares in return. A man was dozing in front of his house, a hat pulled down over his face. It was Beniah.

"Good morning," Venturer spoke.

Beniah stirred and looked up. "Oh, it is you. Why are you not sleeping off your hangovers like everyone else," he grimaced, "didn't you enjoy our party?"

Venturer and Emir sat on the ground next to him. " We are grateful for your friendliness and hospitality," Venturer smiled, "but we do not take strong drink. That way, we can save our strength for work and enjoy our Creator and His kingdom."

"Puh," Beniah spat, "you are stuck up party-poopers. Here in Kwart, we are happy with our way of life. We party hard and have fun, but we die happy. We don't need a Creator looking down on us and spoiling our fun." He raised the brim of his hat and glared at Venturer and Emir. "Maybe it's best if you get back on your boat and leave. You don't fit in here, and nobody's gonna like your attitude. We're fine just the way we are. Don't need anyone coming here to preach at us, that's for sure."

"Well, we didn't intend to offend you, and thank you again. Goodbye." Venturer glanced over at Emir and nodded. They left quietly, smiling and nodding at the children and elderly folk as they left.

"What a sad, sad place." Venturer looked backwards as they reached the beach.

"There is no point in lingering, is there?" Emil sighed.

"No. These people's hearts are not right. Maybe, one day, though, they will be. Then perhaps they will be ready to hear."

***

Part Five:

Quinzo

Once more, the travelers headed in a south-westerly direction. They were aiming for the most northerly shore of Quinzo. Venturer plotted their course carefully to avoid rocky outcrops on their approach. They both eyed the dark blue waters warily, unsure of what sea giants might lurk beneath the surface. A huge, fierce looking fish breached, and they gave the area around it a wide berth.

"There is a wild beauty about this part of the world," Venturer remarked, "we are truly adventuring now."

"I am looking forward to exploring Quinzo," Emir gazed ahead at its rocky shoreline, "they say no one lives here."

"Yes, Father says it is more suited to birds and other creatures. The people of Sixa visit from time to time, but I can see that the people of Kwart would be too lazy for such an adventure." Venturer sighed. "Perhaps we should have tried harder to help them."

"Yes," but cheer up, friend. A young person on Kwart may one day look up at the night sky, or survey the vastness of the deep and see their Creator."

***

Following their map, they found the only place suitable for disembarking: a short stretch of pebbly beach. This time, they packed food, water, a portable shelter and other supplies. They were hoping to camp somewhere on the island. They spent some time on the little beach, and Emir brought out his small notebook and sketched some of the seabirds. "Such variety. I wonder what other creatures we will find."

"Let's find out," said Venturer. They scaled the rocks above the beach. The island stretched out before them. Parts of it were covered in wild grasses and scrubby bushes and trees. Outcrops of rock provided shelter from the prevailing wind. On one side of the island, flippered sea creatures rested in droves on the pebbly shore. The cliffs, on the other hand, provided a home for the seabirds which Emir had been sketching.

Venturer just stood and stared, taking everything in for a long while. 

Emir chuckled, "You are once again speechless, my friend, but I don't blame you."

Venturer smiled, his eyes bright. "Yes, the Creator's incredible handiwork makes me tongue tied every time."

***

The following day, after exploring the entire island, and sleeping in their shelter like two birds, they headed back to their boat.

"I wish we could have stayed longer, but water would have been a problem," Venturer brought the anchor up and they prepared to leave, "we'd best make a start for Sixa straight away. We need to replenish our water and food."

"Sounds like we'll be able to get everything we need there." Emir hoisted the mainsail and they sailed in a northerly direction to the second last island of their journey.

***

Part Six:

Sixa

The Island of Sixa boasted a large harbour, and the two Adventurers gratefully dropped anchor alongside some other medium sized craft. Their water was nearly finished. The Island was easily the most stunning of all: graced with emerald palm trees, flowering shrubs, and fruit trees. Even from the harbour, the travelers could hear the sharp calls of exotic birds and the screeching of tree mammals. "I like this place already," Venturer grinned, "if I didn't like Unos so much, I'd happily live here."

"It looks promising." Emir looked around the busy harbour. A couple of men waved at them and smiled, others were fishing from the harbour wall, and fish sellers were shouting out prices and the names of their catches.

"That way to town?" Venturer asked a fisherman.

"Yes, yes," the man smiled, then tossed some scraps towards a large group of cats.

As they walked towards town, they noticed that there seemed to be as many animals on the streets as people. "Colourful, isn't it?" Venturer spotted a shop that sold bottled water, and they headed there first.

"From Unos?" The shop owner nodded and smiled, "welcome to Sixa. You will find it to be a very welcoming place."

"I see that the people of Sixa are very fond of the animals which our Creator has made." Venturer included the shop keeper in his remark. Several cats, a couple of dogs and two song birds added charm to his store.

The man gave Venturer a rather condescending look. "We are not just fond of animals, young man. We adore and worship them. As for a Creator, I have not seen Him, but these beautiful creatures, I do see, and I worship them."

Venturer bent down to stroke an elegant gray feline. "I agree that they are beautiful. I love animals too. The Creator made each one so well. His Creation is perfect, wouldn't you agree?"

The man smiled, somewhat appeased. "You are right, young man. I see my pets like you, so you must be alright. As for the idea of a Creator, I will have to think about that. Most people here believe everything just appeared."

"Well," said Venturer, as two cats wound around his legs purring, and a dog licked his hand, "the way I like to see it, is that only a Creator could have made such special creatures."

"That is a good way of putting it young man. My name is Tineo." He shook hands with Venturer and Emir, then promised to deliver their water bottles to the harbour.

***

"How odd," said Emir quietly, as they walked on, "imagine worshiping the creature rather than the Creator."

Venturer nodded solemnly. "I have heard of this strange belief." he looked around at the street and pavements. They were overrun with all kinds of animals. "It has obviously led to an imbalanced way of life and thinking. I am glad that Tineo's heart seemed to warm a little to the idea of a Creator."

"Yes, hopefully, he will start thinking and will talk to his friends and family too."

***

Venturer and Emir decided to spend a week on Sixa. They had conversations with several shopkeepers and fishermen. Before leaving, they popped in at Tineo's shop for a last visit.

"So, you are leaving us. Please do visit again. My animals and I would like that." Tineo smiled.

Emir patted a large hound on the head. "Have you given thought to our conversation Tineo?"

The shopkeeper nodded solemnly, "I have, young man. What your friend said certainly does make sense. I can see a Creator more clearly now, and I thank you."

"We will keep you, and the people and animals of Sixa in our prayers, Tineo." Venturer and Emir took leave of the shopkeeper with light hearts.

"Do we have all we need for the next leg of our journey?" Asked Emir.

Venturer laughed. "I believe we do. And something else besides: hope."

***

Part Seven:

Septa

"Septa reminds me of home." Venturer remarked wistfully as they neared the island.

"It does look a lot like Unos," agreed Emir, "not long now though, and we will be home." He smiled as he thought of his love and the reunion which lay ahead.

***

A perfect cove provided a temporary resting place for their boat. Once on the beach, they gazed ahead, and saw rich forests, waterfalls, and a towering mountain peak. "Truly impressive," Venturer grinned, "perhaps we can do some climbing while we're here."

"Good idea. We'll need a guide though."

"Let's find the nearest settlement first. Look, there is a pathway leading away from the beach."

In the fading evening light, Venturer could see smoke rising from chimneys. It was nearing supper time, and he realized how hungry he was.

A young woman was walking on the path ahead of them, and he hailed her. She turned, and Venturer's eyes met the friendliest pair he'd seen in a long time.

"You must come home with me. Mother will be happy to feed you and give you a place to sleep." The girl said, after they'd explained who they were and about their voyage. "People from Unos are always welcome in our home, and on Septa."

"Thank you," Venturer smiled at the willowy young woman. Her red hair glowed in the soft light. "What is your name?"

"I am Efa," she said shyly, "welcome to Septa. One of the Creator's jewels, or so we like to believe."

***

As Efa welcomed them into the house she shared with her parents, they felt truly at home.

"Tell us all about your travels," Efa's father, Calan insisted, "we ourselves have been considering a voyage to Sixa," he glanced at his wife, "Lenita has family living there. We are concerned about their beliefs."

Lenita shook her head as she placed a steaming bowl upon the table. "Fancy not believing in a Creator, and even worse, worshiping the animals which He made. We want to go talk to them, see if we can get them to see sense."

Excitedly, Venturer shared about their recent stay on Sixa, and about the conversations they'd had. "So, it looks like they may be open to believing in a Creator. Hopefully, we have paved the way for you a little."

"How wonderful!" Lenita cried, "and to have fellow believers under our roof is such a blessing."

"Please tell us more." Efa smiled, as she passed a plate of bread to Venturer.

***

"Do you know of anyone who would take us up the mountain, Efa?" Venturer enquired at breakfast the following day.

Efa's eyes lit up. "I can, together with my cousin Rolan. I will find out when it will be convenient for him."

"Great. We have been missing our mountain. It will be good to climb again." Venturer chuckled. Efa left in search of her cousin, insisting that they rest in the shade and enjoy the scenery.

***

The four young people shouldered packs the next day and took the forest trail behind the village. Rolan led the way, proudly pointing out flora and fauna unique to Septa along the way. "Do most of the people on the island believe in the Creator?" Venturer asked Efa as they walked side by side behind Rolan and Emir. 

"Yes,"she smiled up at him, "there are few who don't believe. For us, it is simple. One has only to look at the splendor of God's world to believe He exists, and that He must be a loving God to have made all he has, including ourselves."

Venturer held her gaze, "and His Creation speaks of His goodness too."

***

"Efa," Venturer said, as the two of them walked along the beach, several days later, "Will you laugh if I tell you that I have fallen in love with you? Please do not laugh." He smiled.

"I would never laugh at you, Venturer," she blushed sweetly, "would you laugh if I told you I have been in love with you since our hike up the mountain?"

Venturer stopped walking and took her hands gently in his own. "I would not laugh, I would whoop for joy, and ask you to be my wife."

"Right now?" She laughed.

"Yes, it is the most beautiful place for a proposal. Will you be mine, Efa? We will spend the rest of our days in the Creator's good world."

"I will, Venturer. I want to be yours." Efa held his gaze as Venturer drew her into his arms. He held her close and thanked his Creator for leading him to one of His loveliest creations.

***

Epilogue

"Efa, come, I will help you store your provisions," Beca caught hold of her new sister-in-love's hand as they walked down to the boats. She laughed happily, "The day I have longed for has arrived: my proving voyage and my honeymoon. And I am doubly blessed, for my brother and his wife are going on their honeymoon too."

"I do hope I'll become a good sailor," said Efa, "Venturer says I show promise as I don't get seasick." She laughed. "Look, the men are on the boats already: so eager to start."

"Well, they only need to wait until tomorrow." The young woman laughed happily and hurried to help their husbands as they all set off on a forever adventure.

The End.

In the beginning God (Elohim) created [by forming from nothing] the heavens and the earth. The earth was formless and void or a waste and emptiness, and darkness was upon the face of the deep [primeval ocean that covered the unformed earth]. The Spirit of God was moving (hovering, brooding) over the face of the waters. And God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light.

Genesis 1:1‭-‬3 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/gen.1.1-3.AMP