Ashlyn Chronicles 2: 2288 A.D.: A Time Travel Sci-Fi Fantasy Read Free Page B

it—but yes, I was able to take Renee’s essence into myself. In doing so, I gave up my own personal identity and we became a singular, new person.”
    “Giving up one’s own identity is a big sacrifice,” said Enki. “And you suffered no ill effects from it?”
    “No, I suffered no ill effects.” Ashlyn leaned into Steven. “And it isn’t a sacrifice when it’s done out of love. Renee was a remarkable woman, and I am stronger for having done so.”
    “Admirable sentiments. Admirable ideals. But—your words are reminiscent of many of the legends my mother told me when I was young. I’d never thought her stories to be true; I’d thought them to be fanciful. She’d claimed they were from a distant time in our history, a time which the Anunnaki now consider mythological. If I remember correctly, she said those with the ability to transmigrate people were called, Transors. They were like gods, wielding immense powers.” Beneath the reverent tone of Enki’s words, Steven and Ashlyn both noted a subtle trepidation and fear in his voice. “The more people that they transmigrated, took into themselves, the stronger and more powerful they became.”
    Enki then directed his steely eyes to Steven. “I have heard rumors from the local people about a great battle that took place between you and Enlil outside the walls of the Citadel. I had thought them to be exaggerations—as your people are often prone to do—but now, I must ask. Do you have abilities as well? Abilities beside that of shifting form?”
    “I do,” said Steven.
    Enki said nothing. His posture straightened as he clasped his hands behind his back and patiently waited for Steven to elaborate.
    “I have telekinesis. I can move objects and gather energy from the air. I used it as a weapon against Enlil,” added Steven. “But there are times when I struggle. Accessing it is not always easy.”
    “Then the rumors are not exaggerated,” said Enki. “The two of you are very unique—to say the least.
    “Like Ashlyn, your abilities are those of legend. It belonged to the order of the Magori. They were very, very powerful. They were respected almost as much as they were feared. The rumored war between the dark and the light was said to have nearly consumed the galaxy. It was a time of great upheaval and chaos.” Enki began pacing contemplatively. He again turned to face them. “I expect that such things are not learned overnight. I also know that your abilities have not yet been fully unlocked, however, the Keeper will soon be rectifying that.
    “In fact, your abilities may prove useful for what lies ahead.”
    Whether it was for their safety or that of others, it was obvious to Steven and Ashlyn that Enki knew much more than he was telling them.
    “I must caution you to be careful, Lord Steven, and Lady Ashlyn. There are those that would want to see you dead for having such abilities. It makes you a threat to them.” Enki continued, choosing his words carefully. “You will find that the time of mysticism is long gone from Heaven. The legends say it was a time of barbarism and cruelty. We had not been ready for such powers. Perhaps no civilization ever can be.
    “At some point in time, the council will be faced with a difficult decision. Because you are pure Anunnaki, perhaps even more pure than my own royal bloodline, by law you have the right to enter Heaven. And yet, many will be frightened. They will argue that it is too dangerous to grant you entrance.
    “Yes, the council will have a difficult decision. But today—is not the time to give consideration to such things. Both of you have a destiny that must be followed. In many ways, I am jealous. The universe is still new to you and full of wonder.
    “I can tell you this, Lord Steven. You are the light. You are the man born from the ocean but who commands the stars. You are the savior of your people. And yet, the light that leads you is no brighter than the darkness that trails behind it. You