Looking up, Nicole said, “Okay, I see the cliff, but where’s the cave?”
“What!” Piper said, frantically scanning the cliff face from side to side. “Somebody stole the cave!”
“All right, all right,” Nicole said in exasperation. “You’re sure full of it this morning.”
“I guess I should have mentioned that it’s a ‘Hidden Cave’,” Piper replied with a mischievous grin.
“Come on, Mom,” Star said, taking her by the arm. “I’ll show you how to get to the cave.”
They were soon entering the cave, each with their own shiner lighting the way.
“This is really fascinating,” Nicole said in a hushed voice. “I wonder how they found it in the first place?”
“I’ve wondered the same thing,” Piper replied. “Maybe they saw birds flying in and out, or some sort of animal might have been living in here.”
Rounding the last corner, the three found themselves standing in a chamber with walls covered in brightly glowing drawings.
Nicole froze in place, her eyes darting around, trying to take it all in at once. She rocked back on her heels, but Star was there with a steadying hand on her shoulder.
“Easy, Mom, don’t forget to breathe.”
Once Nicole got over her shock, she gave a nervous laugh and said, “You say we’re supposed to create copies of all this? Have you been nibbling on those mushrooms again?”
“I know it’s a lot to take in, Mom,” Star reassured her, “but I think if we take it one section at a time, we can get it done.”
“We can start right here by the entrance and work our way down the wall, then do it again with the other wall. We can each take a section and work side by side.”
“Sure,” Nicole said, having calmed down a bit. “That way we’ll only need one light source.”
“As for the actual copying,” Star went on, “I was thinking that we should make simple line drawings of all the sections. That will give Isis and her cats something to study. With that done, we can start over again, taking our time to make full color, detailed copies of the drawings.”
“That’s an excellent plan,” Nicole said, giving her daughter a hug. “You’ve given this a lot of thought.”
Piper spoke up for the first time. “We’ll need to bring up the supplies you two will need to make this work.”
Piper continued, starting to make a mental list. “You’ll need to bring food and water every day. I’m sure you’ll want to take breaks throughout the day. Also, we’ll need to stock up on whatever it takes to keep Cisco’s light contraption working.”
“It seems like you’re going to need a helper to take care of all the little things, so you two can concentrate on the drawings.”
“We need to get through the excitement of it all,” Star said, looking around with a wistful smile, “so we can settle down and get the job done.”
“While I’m thinking about it, we’ll want to bring pads to sit on while we work. We’re going to be in for some long days.”
“Good catch,” Nicole said, with a nod. “Little things like that can make a big difference.”
“Okay, guys, whenever you’re ready to head back, I’ll be outside,” Piper told them, turning to wind her way back through the passageway.
A few hours later, Star and Nicole were back at the cave, along with Cisco, Suki, and Shaun. Cisco and his crew were there to set up Cisco’s lighting contraption, and Star and Nicole were there to see what the best position for the light would be.
“Okay, guys, let’s get this thing set up,” Cisco said, carrying one end of the contraption. “I’m glad we mounted this thing on a solid base. That makes it a lot less flimsy, plus it will be easier to level.”
“Suki, can you hold that gourd shiner up so we can all see what we’re doing?”
“You know,” Shaun commented, “this might be a place where that ‘all resin’ shiner would work well. Of course, we’d need a way to hang it up.”
“You’re right,” Suki replied, “We should bring it along the next trip, just to see. There’s got to be a way to hang it up in here.”
“Okay,” Cisco said, setting down his end of the contraption. “Let’s try right here.”
Setting down his end, Shaun went to get the leveling bowl and the water skin. Setting the bowl on the base of the contraption, he filled it up to the lowest mark on the inside of the bowl. When all the marks inside the bowl were even with the water surface, whatever the bowl was sitting on would be level.
“That’s not too far off,” Cisco said, using his small shiner to see the marks in the bowl.
“Grab the wooden wedges so we can shim up the low corners.”
“Okay, where do you want them?” Shaun asked once he had the wedges.
“Do the back right corner first,” Cisco directed, “then the back left.” Shaun used a rock to tap the wedge under the first corner while Cisco kept an eye on the leveling bowl.
“One more small tap, then move to the other corner.”
Shaun moved and started the wedge at the other corner.
“Keep going, that corner was the lowest one. Okay, you’re getting close. There, that’s good.”
“We might as well leave the leveling bowl here at the cave for when we have to move the rig. Leave a bunch of the wedges too, in case we need more.”
“Star, Nicole, we’re ready for you to check out the lighting setup,” Cisco called, interrupting their planning and note taking.
“Give us a second to get in position, then you can give us the light,” Star said.
Once they were sitting on their mats with their sketching papers, Cisco swung the shiner on the contraption to the other side. The rock inside rolled to the other end of the tube, and bright light radiated out.
“Okay, Suki, go ahead and put your gourd light in the bag.”
Star and Nicole went through the motions of sketching, talking back and forth. Star got up and moved one section further down the wall. After more discussion, she moved down another section. Trying that out, Nicole and Star agreed that they could work with that.
“It turns out that we needed more space between us to let enough light through,” Nicole said.
“We’ll have to keep a close track of who’s working on which section,” Star said. “We don’t want to miss a section or do the same one twice.”
“The good news,” Cisco stated, “it looks like we’ll only need to reposition the light source at the beginning of each day.”
“Now let’s get this thing ready to swing,” Cisco said to Shaun and Suki. “We need the water bag and the two catch basins.”
As she was bringing over the water skin, Suki commented, “Whoever is going to be babysitting this rig really needs to see how we’re doing all this.”
“Yeah, you’re right,” Cisco said, showing Shaun where to place the catch basins. “I need to talk to the Rangers to see if they can shake anyone loose for this duty.”
As she was hanging the water bag, Suki noticed a difference. “Hey Cisco, what did you do to this?”
“Oh, you saw that, did you?” Cisco answered. “I didn’t want to have to fuss getting the flow rate set every time we changed the water bag. I put a shutoff valve between the bag and the flow spigot.”
“I preset the proper rate of flow with the shutoff valve wide open. Now you don’t need to adjust the flow rate spigot at all, just open or close the shutoff valve.”
“That’s slick,” Shaun said. “Simple and effective.”
“Let’s give it a go,” Cisco said, seeing that everything was in place. “Open that shutoff valve, Suki.”
The water started to flow at a steady rate onto the wooden vane that directed it into the right hand trough. “Now we wait to see if we got everything right to keep the light going.”
Turning to Star and Nicole, Cisco said, “Ladies, you’re free to do whatever you like. Once we see that this thing works like it should, we’ll put in a freshly charged shiner and a full water bag. Then you’ll be all ready for tomorrow.”
“Thanks for setting this up, guys. This is going to make a huge difference,” Star said.
“This whole thing is absolutely incredible,” Nicole added enthusiastically. “It’s amazing what everyone’s done so far to make all this possible.”
On the trail back to the village, Suki approached Star, saying in a quiet voice, “There’s something I’ve been wanting to talk to you about.”
“And what would that be?” Star said, slowing down so they lagged behind the others.
“Remember when you were checking out everyone’s auras, you thought I might learn how to see them too?” Suki hesitated, then continued, “And then we both responded to the amulet with the stylized eye.”
“Of course I remember,” Star replied. “I’ve been hoping to find time to help you with that.”
“Since that night,” Suki went on, “I’ve been trying to see even a glimpse of someone’s aura, but I’ve had absolutely no luck.”
“That was until…” Suki said with a big smile.
“You know when you first got back from Falling Waters, and you and Stony literally ran into each
other?” She said with a chuckle. “Well, that’s when it happened.”
“One minute, everything was normal, then you and Stony were holding each other. Suddenly you two were surrounded by beautiful glowing light.”
“Since then, when I relax and try not to force it, sometimes I can see lights around other people.”
Star stopped and gave Suki a hug. “What you’ve done is amazing. It usually takes some serious coaching to get where you are.”
“I’m so happy for you,” she said, as they resumed walking. “I get the feeling that you want to keep this to yourself.”
“I really wanted to share it with you,” Suki said, “but, yeah, I like to see how this develops before I let everyone know. It feels special and personal, if you know what I mean.”
“I know exactly what you mean,” Star replied. “Enjoy playing with your new talent.”
Leaving the forest, the three new arrivals entered the village.
“I don’t see anybody wandering around,” the cat at the head of the group said, “but I hear a lot of activity in that direction.”
Standing on the roof of one of the new cabins, Zelli was the first one to spot the approaching cats.
“Look who finally found us!” Zelli called to the rest of the working cats. “It’s Rafe and Nixie and they’ve brought someone else with them.”
Jumping to the ground, Zelli greeted the newcomers. “I was beginning to think that you two had decided to stay at Golden Oaks. It’s good to see you.”
“Woohoo!” Baxter exclaimed from where he was working. “I know that pretty lady who’s with them.”
“Well, I should hope you hadn’t forgotten about me already,” Cassandra said, walking over to greet Baxter.
“I decided that waiting for you to wander back my way was a waste of time, so here I am.”
“I’ve been doing my best to find an excuse to make another trip over your way,” Baxter said, brushing wood chips off his fur, “but there’s just too many things that needed to get done.”
“So you’ve been thinking about me?” Cassandra said with a smile. “That’s nice to hear.”
“No need to introduce yourself, Cassandra,” Zelli laughed. “Baxter has told us all about you.”
“Please, everyone, call me Cassy,” Cassandra said with a laugh. “No use being so formal.”
Zelli went ahead and pointed out the other cats working on the cabins, naming each one.
“So, Rafe and Nixie,” Zelli said, turning to them with her hands on her hips, “I take it some other Rangers showed up to take your place at the Lodge.”
“Yes, ma’am, that is correct, ma’am,” Rafe said, coming to attention and giving her a mock salute.
Nixie burst out laughing, which made Rafe scowl and say, “I thought it would be best to bring this one with me before she caused any more trouble.”
Not being able to keep up the act any longer, he finally broke down laughing too.
“Tiko and Wisp got back from exploring a section on the western edge of the territory,” Nixie finally replied as she dropped her pack and flexed her shoulders. “They were glad to have some downtime after being in the field so long.”
“Okay, let’s get you comedians settled,” Zelli said with a grin, turning to lead the newcomers to where there were some empty shelters. “Cassy, I can’t imagine what you went through traveling with these two.”
“Now that you’re here, what are your plans for the rest of the day?” Zelli asked.
“I was hoping to get with Isis to see what she’s been working on,” Cassandra replied as they approached the shelters.”
“Okay,” Zelli said pointing to one of the shelters. “You can put your stuff in there and I’ll help you find her.”
“As for you two miscreants,” Zelli said, with a grin, “Go ahead and pick out your shelters. I’m sure you can find some way to avoid being put to work. Then you’re on your own until dinner time.”
Kikki and Tam were trying to organize a trading mission to the tribe of the Teachers. They were sitting with Piper and Isis.
Kikki stated, “First, we need to make a list of what we hope the Teachers can provide us with. Then we need to find enough people to carry it all back here.”
“We also need to figure out what we have to trade,” Shaun added.
“Okay, let’s start with the list,” Kikki said, smoothing out her paper and dipping a quill in concentrated berry juice.
“We need quantities of paper,” Isis said, “both common paper for our everyday use, and fine, heavyweight paper for copying the cave drawings.”
“We’ll also want pigments and paints, as well as brushes, quills, and ink of various colors.”
“I’m not sure what else they’d have that we could use. I think we should be straightforward and ask them for advice on what we’re doing here.”
Kikki made her notes and said, “That’s a pretty short list.”
“The paper is going to be heavy,” Piper pointed out. “The amount you want will determine who we take to haul it back.”
“Okay, I’ll talk to Star and Nicole about exactly how much they need for their project,” Isis said, “Then I’ll add what we need for our work.”
After talking with Star and Nicole, Isis gave Kikki the information she needed for her list. Then, after talking to Cisco, it was decided that they would take shiners and a quantity of the minerals for trade.
That night at dinner, they discussed who would make the trip to the tribe of the Teachers.
Cats came into the village common area from all directions. The cabin builders came in as a group, while the other cats showed up singly or in pairs.
Jax and Kyron had returned from visiting with the hunters of the Hungry tribe and brought a few rabbits and birds from their hunt. As the other cats were all busy on projects, Vitto and Del had stepped up to cook the evening meal.
Jax stood up to get everyone’s attention. “We’ve got a couple of new projects that we need people for.”
“Our artists are ready to start copying the cave drawings. They need someone to take care of the lighting in the cave, as well as being a general helper for whatever they need.”
“Related to that project, we’re setting up a trading mission to the village of the Teachers. We’ll be hauling back paper and other supplies for painting.”
“We need to decide who’s going on the trip and who’s going to the cave. Let’s hear what you think.”
Nixie spoke up. “I’m fascinated by the discovery of the cave drawings. I’d really like to work with Star and Nicole.”
“Anyone have a problem with that?” Jax asked, scanning the cats that had gathered around.
“No? Okay, Nixie, that’s your new job.”
“Hot Diggity!” Nixie shouted, dancing around.
“Come on, Nixie,” Jax laughed. “Try to show a little enthusiasm.”
“Okay, so how about the trip to the Teachers?”
Juni spoke up. “Breezy and I need to finish the living quarters for Tiniki and the kids. That’ll
take three or four more days.”
“It sounds like you could use some muscle for hauling stuff,” Baxter said. “And I’ll go if necessary, but…”
Benji held up his hand, interrupting Baxter. “That’s okay, you get a pass on this one. We couldn’t make you leave right after Cassy showed up.”
Baxter sat back, looking relieved, as Cassy smiled, leaning against him.
“Well, he didn’t put up much of an argument.” Benji laughed. “Anyway, I could use a break from cabin building. Count me in for the trip.”
Isis spoke from the edge of the group where she was standing with Cisco. “I’ll be going on the trip. These Teachers might be a significant help to what we’re doing here.”
“Believe it or not,” Cisco said, “I’ve been to the village of the Teachers before, remember I used to be a ‘traveler and collector of information’? So I’ll be going along.”
Jax took over again, “I think it’s important to continue building the cabins, so Rafe, I’d like you to take Benji’s place on the build crew.”
“Sounds good to me,” Rafe replied.
“Everyone else is busy on projects,” Jax said. “Except for Piper and me. So unless something comes up, we’ll be going too. I have an idea for a small side trip on the way back.”
Once the talk had died down, Nicole got to her feet and turned to the group. “I know I just got here and am basically an outsider, but I’d like to suggest something.”
“Since I’ve been here, over and over I’ve heard you say how this valley feels special, magical, and all sorts of descriptions like that.”
“And I agree, there’s something most unusual and unique about the feeling I get when I’m here.”
Every cat in the group nodded in agreement.
“So, to get to my point, we’ve been calling the valley, The Valley of Flowers, and the village,
Flower Village.”
“Now these names totally accurate, but in my opinion, they are too plain and uninspired.”
“I think the names should reflect the wonderfulness of the valley and the village.”
“I might be completely out of place, but I think we should come up with better names.”
Most of the cats sat with thoughtful expressions, and then there was a murmur of soft conversation.
After a few minutes, Isis said, “I think you may have a point.”
“We’ve just been using those names for convenience. I don’t think any of us had given it much thought.”
“Besides, as it is, very few people have even heard of our valley or our village, and most of those are standing here right now.”
“I think coming up with meaningful names would be a good thing.”
“Does anybody have ideas for new names?” Jax asked, looking around at the gathered cats.
“I have a few ideas,” Nicole said, “but I would like to hear if any of you have any ideas.”
There were suggestions of ‘Valley of the Ancestors’, ‘Spirit Village’, ‘Valley of Mysteries’, and many others that were less memorable.
“Okay Nicole,” Isis said, “Please tell us what you thought of.”
Nicole smiled and said, “I won’t beat around the bush, I really like Mystic Village. I’m a little less sure of the name for the valley. Valley of Mysteries certainly applies, but I hope when we’re done we will have solved most of them.”
“‘Gifts of the Ancestors’ would certainly be appropriate,” Isis said, “but it’s a bit clumsy for the name of a valley.”
“That’s a great name for the research center we’re building here,” Piper said, which immediately brought smiles from all the cats, “but we still need to decide on the names for the village and the valley.”
“How about ‘Magic Valley’?” Kikki said. “There really is something magical about this valley.”
“Mystic Village and Magic Valley, I have to say, I like the sound of those names, quite a bit actually,” Isis stated. “Does anyone else have any suggestions, or thinks we shouldn’t change the names at all?”
“Vitto, your family has been awfully quiet.”Jax said, singling them out. “What do you think?”
Looking at Del and Kyron, Vitto replied, “Well, not being part of the group yet, it wouldn’t be right to say.”
Jax gave a hearty laugh. “I hate to tell you this, but you are all most definitely part of our group, and our family.”
“Well, if that’s the way you feel about it,” Vitto said with a grin, again, looking to Del and Kyron. “We think those last two names are spot on.”
“So, what do you say?” Jax asked all the cats. “Is there anyone who doesn’t like the idea of changing the names to Magic Valley and Mystic Village?”
Approval of the name changes was unanimous.
Standing up with a big smile and her arms spread wide, Isis announced…
“Welcome to Mystic Village in the Magic Valley!”
All the cats stood and cheered.