Sonnet

Chapter Three 

As the sun began its ascent, casting a gentle glow upon the waking world, Sonnet laced up her running shoes and stepped out into the cool embrace of the crisp morning air. The familiar routine of her early run served as a temporary respite, a chance to escape the chaos that often plagued her home. The tranquil park beckoned, its sprawling green expanse dotted with vibrant blossoms and towering trees that mumbled secrets to the wind. The rhythmic sound of her footfall reverberated through the empty winding paths, her heart beating in sync with the steady cadence of her steps.   

With each breath, Sonnet relished the peace that enveloped her, a brief reprieve from the tumultuous reality she faced at home. Her thoughts skipped between the beauty of the surrounding nature and the challenges that awaited her beyond the park’s boundaries. She knew that the comfort of these morning escapades was only temporary, a fleeting moment of tranquillity before she returned to her duties and responsibilities. By the time she’d done eight laps, she felt the tension leaving her and though she could have run all day, her time was not her own. Her mother would awaken soon and need help to dress.  

As Sonnet approached the park’s exit, a shadowy figure materialized, blocking her path. A knot of unease tightened in her stomach as she recognized Daz her brother’s drug-dealing acquaintance. His dishevelled appearance and hardened expression sent a chill down her spine. Sonnet loathed the sight of him, and what he stood for, his very presence served as a stark reminder of the dangers that lurked within her own family’s sphere. As she grew closer, she felt her heart pounding with a mixture of fear and determination. 

Sonnet stopped a distance away from the exit and stood there defiantly, forcing Daz to approach her. As he advanced, his menacing presence cast a shadow over her. Sonnet’s mind travelled back to the enchanted chessboard in Promega, she recalled the power and confidence she felt when embodied as a warrior, clad in shining armour, and wielding a sword with purpose. A wave of longing washed over her, wishing that she could summon that same armour and weapon now. The memory of that fierce battle on the chessboard fuelled her imagination, inspiring her to tap into the strength she had possessed.  

In her mind’s eye, Sonnet visualized herself donning the armour, feeling its weight settle upon her shoulders, imbuing her with a sense of invincibility. With a firm grip on the hilt of her phantom sword, she envisioned its blade glistening with an elegant, glowing light. Each swing, each parry, became a dance of skill and grace, as though she were performing a symphony of combat. The echoes of steel striking steel reverberated in her ears, a haunting melody that fuelled her fighting spirit.  

The air grew heavy as he faced her and reached out, grabbing Sonnet’s arm with a forceful grip.  

“Rye owes me” he said quietly 

“I’m not Rye” she replied, looking him straight in the eye. The roughness of his touch sent a surge of adrenaline coursing through her veins, igniting a fierce determination within her.  

“Get your filthy hands off me” she growled 

Sonnet’s training in martial arts showed in that moment, as with a swift motion, she skilfully slipped free from the man’s grasp, twisting and pulling and throwing, her body moving fluidly as if guided by an unseen force. Rye found himself face down on the floor, winded from the heavy throw and Sonnet resumed her run but faster now; the adrenaline fuelling her escape and making her heart pound in her ears.  

Despite her successful evasion, an unsettling feeling lingered within her core. The encounter made her focus on her family’s struggles, the dark consequences of her brothers’ addiction and the dangerous associations they had forged. It served as a stark reminder of the fragile balance she maintained, treading a tightrope between the loyalty she felt for her brothers and the need to protect herself.  

As Sonnet continued her journey back home, her steps carried a weight that belied the physical exertion of her run. The morning sunlight, once comforting, now cast long shadows upon her path, reflecting the shadows that loomed over her family’s existence. Deep within her, a resolve took root, a determination to rise above the chaos and forge her own destiny. She knew that the unsettled feeling would linger, but it would also serve as a reminder of her strength and resilience. With each stride, she moved forward, determined to create a better future not only for herself but for her family. 

As Sonnet approached her home, feeling worn out from the morning’s trials, she remembered Simon, her partner in the magical contests and a surge of admiration surged through her. She recalled his mastery of spellcasting, his ability to channel immense power with precision and control. Her home now seemed so ordinary, and this life thoroughly dull; it was a four-bedroom house, nestled in a modest neighbourhood, its weathered exterior a reflection of the challenges its occupants had faced over the years. The faded paint, once vibrant, now bore the scars of time and neglect. The front yard, overrun with weeds, a shadow of its once-pristine appearance, mirrored the struggles within. 

She stepped through the front door and a sense of weariness permeated the air. The hallway, cluttered with shoes and coats, lacked the welcoming ambiance one might expect in a home. The walls, adorned with faded family portraits and the occasional crack, held untold stories, whispering of both joyous and sorrowful times. She walked through into the living room, the heart of the home, where she had spent countless hours sat on the threadbare couch. At one time it had been plush and inviting, now it sagged with the weight of worn cushions. A coffee table, adorned with scratches and coffee cup rings, stood as a silent witness to the love and laughter, and bitter arguments fought within these walls. 

 Her mother, hearing her come in, called to her from the kitchen. Sonnet walked through to the adjacent room where she found her sitting at the table drinking tea. She must be having a good day, thought Sonnet as she greeted her mother with a kiss on the cheek. 

“How was the run?” her mother asked 

“As ever” she answered with a smile, sitting down beside her.  

“And how are you this beautiful morning? You dressed yourself I see,” said Sonnet 

Her mother just smiled, staring off into space as though deep in thought.  

Sonnet sat with her for a while, remembering the good times, when her mother was up at dawn, making sure they all ate breakfast and packing them all lunch before school. She looked around at the worn linoleum floor, marked by stains and scuffs, it bore the traces of countless meals prepared with love and limited means. Shelves, adorned with mismatched dishes and chipped mugs, testifying to the frugality of their existence. The refrigerator, adorned with magnets holding cherished memories, hummed softly, its contents a meagre offering now. 

After a few minutes she realised she hadn’t showered and left her mother to her thoughts. She walked up the narrow and dimly lit stairs which lead to the bedrooms. Sonnet’s own room, tucked away at the end of the hallway, bore the marks of her individuality amidst the chaos. Posters of inspirational figures lined the walls, offering a kind of hope and aspiration. The bed, though modest, was adorned with a few tattered but cherished blankets, her sanctuary from the turmoil that often permeated the rest of the house.  

The bedrooms belonging to her brothers, however, told a different story. They held an atmosphere of heavy neglect and an undercurrent of despair. The walls were covered with faded posters of rock bands, intermingled with cracks and peeling paint. Unmade beds served as reminders of restless nights, while discarded clothes and drug paraphernalia lay scattered haphazardly, symbols of lives unravelled by addiction. 

 At the heart of the house, Sonnet’s mother’s room stood as a testament to her resilience. Though confined by her disability, the room was still filled with love and strength. A small window, adorned with colourful curtains, allowed slivers of sunlight to filter through, casting a gentle glow upon her world. Personal mementos and cherished photographs lined the walls, offering a glimpse into the past and happier times. 

 Throughout the house, the passage of time was palpable. The worn carpets, creaking floOrboards, and the faint scent of stale air were witness to the struggles faced by this family. Yet, amidst the adversity, there was still expectation and ambition, an unbreakable spirit that refused to be extinguished. Within these walls, Sonnet navigated the challenges of her world, seeking peace in her dreams and the small moments of respite she had in her room. 

Sonnet entered her small, cluttered bedroom, still feeling the lingering unease from the encounter in the park. The sunlight struggled to penetrate through the dusty window, casting a dim, melancholic glow upon the room. Her eyes scanned the familiar surroundings, searching for something precious amidst the chaos.  

“Where has that gone?” she wondered aloud 

She always had a picture of her dad somewhere in her room but now she wanted to look at it, she couldn’t see it anywhere. Her room was not a tidy room, but she knew where everything was, normally. She looked slowly around the room, her gaze settled upon a worn wooden desk, strewn with papers and forgotten trinkets. Resting there, amidst the disarray, she noticed an unfamiliar object—a small black device. Its sleek design was in stark contrast to the worn and weathered items surrounding it. Sonnet’s curiosity piqued, she reached out and picked it up, turning it over in her hands. 

“What in the world is this?” she thought, and her mind immediately turned to her brothers’ “friends”. A mix of emotions washed over her. The absence of her father, a constant ache in her heart, intensified as she held the device. She longed for his guidance, his steady presence, but all that remained were fleeting memories and the void he left behind.  

As she examined the mysterious object, her mind began to spin with possibilities. Her brothers and their awful delinquent friends, entangled in the dangerous world of drugs, had often brought trouble to their doorstep. Sonnet’s mind raced with suspicion, wondering if this device was yet another intrusion into her already tumultuous life. She contemplated the idea that it might be a tool used for surveillance, to record her in her vulnerable moments, it looked like it could be a camera. 

A surge of hatred filled her body, her brothers knew no boundaries, they had no morals left, how could they do such a thing? The suddenly, she remembered that she had no evidence that this was the case and calmed down. Perhaps it belonged to her mother, maybe she had placed it there by mistake, perhaps it wasn’t a camera at all. Well, whatever it was, it wouldn’t be staying in her room. She ran out of her room and pulled down the steps to the loft. She secreted the device in her hidden compartment under the rafters, where she kept her diaries, far from prying eyes. 

– 

Sonnet’s Nomad stepped into the facility, a vast world hidden within the unassuming exterior, and a sense of awe washed over him. The transition from the mundane Promegan world to the realm of advanced technology was nothing short of breathtaking. Although this was his home, he had spent so long in Promega that Rome felt almost alien to him now. Rome and its sprawling electronic landscape stretched out before him, its intricate architecture a testament to human ingenuity. Smooth, gleaming surfaces reflected the glow, creating an illusion of endless corridors and interconnected rooms. The air hummed with a subtle energy, a symphony of technology and innovation.  

As he moved further into the facility, the Nomad was greeted by a hologram, a sophisticated shimmering projection of an elegant female figure. As the Nomad approached, the hologram extended a hand in a welcoming gesture, its light pulsating softly. The hologram greeted him cordially, its voice carried a sense of jurisdiction as well as warmth. Despite its ethereal nature hologram’s presence felt almost tangible, its features sharp and lifelike, each detail meticulously rendered.  

With a gentle nod of acknowledgment, the Nomad took the outstretched hand and engaged with it cordially. Questions and requests were met with instant responses, as if the hologram possessed a deep understanding of the Nomad’s purpose and intent, guiding the Nomad through the necessary procedures.  

“The Orb is out of range” the Nomad said softly, in keeping with the serene environment “I will need permission to travel abroad right away” 

The hologram responded instantly, its voice possessed a melodic quality, carrying within it an authority which suggested assurance and efficiency. 

“Of Course,” it replied “You must leave at once” 

The hologram activated a series of intricate protocols, initiating the necessary preparations. Holographic panels and screens appeared and came alive with vibrant displays, illuminating the space with a myriad of colours and data streams. Unseen mechanisms whirred and hummed, carrying out the precise calculations and adjustments required for interdimensional travel. The air crackled with a subtle energy, an undercurrent of power and anticipation. 

The hologram’s projection flickered briefly, as if conveying a sense of satisfaction, before dissipating into the air, along with the world of Rome, leaving behind a lingering trail of shimmering light. The Nomad was on Earth, in Kent, England. 

– 

The Nomad, having materialized near Sonnet’s house under the cover of darkness, gazed at the modest building before him. A flicker of concern passed through his mind as he contemplated the delicate situation at hand. The Nomad understood the disorderly dynamics within Sonnet’s household and the potential risks associated with an unexpected visitor. His initial plan of returning the mysterious Orb to Sonnet’s room discreetly started to unravel in his thoughts. The possibility of entering the house unnoticed, navigating through the darkness, and placing the device back without drawing attention seemed more unlikely the longer he thought about it. If he was discovered, he would not have a chance to explain himself and his mission would become more difficult. His duty was to protect and support Sonnet, and he must make decisions that prioritized her well-being.  

After taking a moment to assess the situation, the Nomad realized that a more direct approach might be prudent. He reasoned that it would be safer to confront Ethan and Rye, and ask to see Sonnet openly, rather than risk an unintended confrontation with her brothers or their associates within the house. With a resolved mindset, the Nomad took a deep breath and approached the front door. His cloak billowed gently, embracing the darkness around him as he raised a hand to knock firmly yet respectfully. The sound echoed through the quiet night, breaking the stillness that enveloped the neighbourhood.   

The door swung open, revealing a disgruntled Ethan, the Nomad maintained a composed demeanour, understanding the potential hostility he may encounter. He met Ethan’s gaze with a measured calmness, recognizing the anger that lingered in the young man’s eyes. In a steady, unwavering voice, the Nomad explained his purpose. He spoke of his concern for Sonnet’s well-being and his desire to speak with her, assuring Ethan that his intentions were genuine. The Nomad’s words carried an air of sincerity and empathy, hoping to avoid any unnecessary conflict. 

Ethan, enraged that the tall visitor had the nerve to wake the household at such an hour and attempt to speak with his sixteen-year-old sister, told the Nomad in no uncertain terms, to leave. The air inside Sonnet’s home grew heavy with tension as the Nomad and Ethan engaged in a heated exchange. Their voices intertwined, rising and falling in a clash of wills, as both stood their ground, each fiercely protective of their own concerns.  

The Nomad’s eyes narrowed, determination etched upon his now human looking face, as he realized that convincing Ethan would not be an easy task. He was keenly aware of the urgency of his mission, that Sonnet’s safety and well-being depended on their connection. With a subtle flicker of his hand, a surge of magic coursed through his being, honed by his years of training. Ethan’s resistance began to waver, his eyes grew heavy as weariness seeped into his bones. The Nomad’s spell, subtle yet potent, took hold, gently lulling Ethan into a deep slumber. His body relaxed, and the Nomad carefully lay him down on the nearby couch, oblivious to the unfolding events. 

Now unimpeded, the Nomad moved quickly through the dimly lit hallway, his silhouette casting elongated shadows on the walls. He approached Sonnet’s bedroom, his steps light but purposeful, a sense of anticipation coursing through his ethereal form. The door creaked open soundlessly, revealing Sonnet curled up in peaceful slumber. The Nomad’s gaze softened as he beheld her, understanding the weight of her burdens and the strength that lay within her. He approached her bedside, his movements graceful and deliberate, and gently reached out to touch her shoulder. As his hand made contact with her skin, a warm, comforting energy emanated from his touch, rousing Sonnet from her dreams. Her eyes fluttered open, and for a brief moment, she was met with the bewildering sight of her Nomad standing before her, a tangible presence rather than a figment of her imagination. 

Although he looked mostly human and had an actual face whereas before there had only been smoke, Sonnet knew him at once. A mixture of shock, disbelief, and wonder washed over Sonnet, her heart racing as she took in the reality of the situation. The room seemed to come alive with a soft glow, casting an exquisite light upon their meeting. With a voice that carried both reassurance and excitement, the Nomad spoke to Sonnet, his words resonating with a depth of understanding. 

“Be at ease” he said gently “There is no reason for concern” 

Sonnet’s breath caught in her throat as she absorbed the truth that had eluded her until now, her Nomad was real. Emotions swirled within her, a blend of astonishment, curiosity, and excitement.  

“How did you get here?” She asked feeling flustered “Why are you here?” 

“I travelled here via the Facility, using a process that allows physical interdimensional travel between this world and Promega” he began 

“And I came because the Orb was moved” he said, feeling that this was explanation enough. 

“What is an Orb?” asked Sonnet feeling puzzled 

“An Orb establishes a quantum entanglement between a subject’s consciousness and a corresponding anchor point in Promega. It relies on the intricate interconnectedness of the universe, tapping into the underlying fabric of reality itself. When the subject enters a deep sleep, the Orb harnesses this entanglement, enabling the instantaneous transfer of the subject’s consciousness to Promega, transcending the constraints of physical distance and time.” he replied calmly 

“Thank you” she said “That’s very helpful but I’d appreciate a more detailed explanation” 

As Sonnet and her Nomad sat together, their surroundings bathed in a soft glow from the bedside lamp, they became immersed in deep conversation about the contests and the purpose behind their participation. The Nomad, his form shifting occasionally between human and smoky essence, shared with Sonnet the truth about the ongoing threats faced by Promega and Earth from the malicious forces of Sorcerers. The Nomad’s voice resonated with a mixture of solemnity and determination as he spoke of the constant struggle to maintain the delicate balance between the realms. 

He explained that the contests were not merely competitions for entertainment but a vital means of identifying and honing the talents of the most gifted individuals from both worlds—humans and Nomads alike. Earth and Promega faced a constant danger from evil sorcerers. Sonnet listened intently as her Nomad unravelled the ancient origins of the contests, their purpose, and the perils that once threatened both lands. Her eyes widened with a mix of fascination and a deep sense of understanding. 

“So, the contests were created to ensure that magic was wielded responsibly and that the mistakes of the past would not be repeated,” she mused, her voice filled with a sense of awe. “But why was it necessary to restrict knowledge and limit the power of the Nomads?”  

Her Nomad’s form flickered from human to smoke as he responded, the rosy fruity scent emanating from his ethereal presence. “In the ancient times, Sonnet, those who crossed into Promega from Earth gained an unimaginable amount of power. With no enemies to challenge them and no limits to their growth, they became intoxicated by their own might. Their desire for dominance and control nearly led to the destruction of both realms. A spell was composed that very nearly destroyed our worlds” 

Sonnet’s brow furrowed with concern. “How could a single spell have such devastating consequences?” 

The Nomad’s voice took on a somber tone, filled with the weight of history. “The power they amassed was so immense that a single misstep, a momentary lapse in judgment, a single misplaced word, held enough magical potential to unravel the whole of existence. It became clear that certain knowledge and abilities should not be bestowed upon Nomads until they had learned, through experience and guidance, how to wield magic responsibly and with moral integrity. 

Understanding dawned on Sonnet’s face. “So, the contests were designed to teach us more than just magical prowess. They are meant to instil principles, morals, and the importance of balance.”  

The Nomad nodded, his ethereal form pulsating with a sense of agreement. “Exactly, Sonnet. The contests serve as a crucible for Nomads and their human counterparts, a journey where they can learn the true nature of their powers, the consequences of their actions, and the value of unity and justice. Through these trials, those with darkness in their hearts can be identified and prohibited from further instruction, while those who embody the true spirit of Promega and Earth can rise and protect both realms.” 

The Nomad told tales of heroic battles fought throughout history, where brave individuals from both realms—humans and Nomads—had joined forces to protect the fragile harmony of their worlds. He spoke of legendary champions who had risen to the call, wielding both physical and magical prowess to vanquish the Sorcerers and safeguard the realms. He described the formidable challenges posed by the Sorcerers, dark beings who sought to exploit the power of magic for their own nefarious purposes. These Sorcerers, driven by greed, ambition, or a thirst for dominance, would unleash chaos and destruction if left unchecked. Promega and Earth, bound together by a shared destiny, had to stand united against this common threat. 

Sonnet sat on the edge of her bed, her eyes fixed on her Nomad, a mix of curiosity and foreboding in her gaze. She couldn’t help but wonder why her Nomad had taken the unprecedented step of journeying to Earth to seek her out. It appeared as though there was an expectation, that Sonnet and Simon would progress to the final and both of their Nomads were preparing for events that would follow victory. With a deep breath, she voiced her question.  

“Nomad, why do you believe in Simon and me so strongly? What makes us different from the other candidates in these contests?”  

Her Nomad, becoming again the figure of wispy smoke with glowing red eyes, regarded her with a sense of unwavering confidence. His voice resonated with a blend of affection and pride as he replied. 

“Sonnet, you and Simon possess a rare combination of qualities that make you truly exceptional. It is not just your raw magical abilities, but the strength of your hearts and the purity of your intentions that set you apart. Throughout the contests, you have consistently outperformed the others, demonstrating remarkable skill, resilience, and adaptability.”   

He paused briefly, allowing his words to sink in, before continuing. “But it is more than mere skill. It is your unwavering dedication to the cause, your unyielding belief in the power of unity, that makes you shine. You both possess an innate understanding of the true purpose behind these contests—to protect one another, without question and above all else. Without this, the contests are pointless. To advance is a secondary consideration and to do so alone is not an option.  

Sonnet’s eyes widened with a mixture of surprise and gratitude. “I never realized… I mean, we never intended to surpass others. We just wanted to do our best and make a difference.” 

Her Nomad nodded, a faint smile flickering in his ethereal form. “And that is precisely why you excel. Your genuine humility and the purity of your intentions drive you to reach new heights. You have proven yourselves capable of facing challenges head-on, adapting to unexpected circumstances, and using your magic with remarkable precision. But it is your compassionate spirit and unwavering determination to protect others that truly sets you apart.”  

Sonnet’s heart swelled with a renewed sense of purpose. The weight of responsibility mingled with a newfound belief in her own potential. She looked into her Nomad’s glowing red eyes, gratitude shining in her gaze, but his face turned serious, and his voice took on a grave tone as the conversation turned to more pressing matters. He began to describe a different kind of Nomad than either she or Simon had known. A Nomad who, seemed to have a name: Sibella. 

Once a loyal and dutiful servant like all Nomads, Sibella had succumbed to the allure of dark magic and fallen into a twisted path. Fuelled by rage and a thirst for power, she sought to breach the barrier between Promega and Earth, disregarding the consequences that such an act would bring. Her Nomad painted a vivid picture of the chaos and destruction unleashed by Sibella’s unrestrained magic.  

The facility, usually a bastion of order and harmony, had been thrown into disarray as Sibella and her hoard attacked. Powerful spells tore through its halls, walls crumbled, pillars shattered, and the air became thick with smoke and swirling remnants of shattered enchantments. Rooms once filled with bustling activity and technological marvels were left in ruins, the remnants of shattered equipment scattered amidst the debris. The sound of alarms wailing, mingled with the crackling of unleashed magical energy, filled the air, creating an atmosphere of sheer chaos and desperation.  

Having never faced a direct attack on the Facility before, its defences were tested to the full. The breach, however small, was a devastating shock to the occupants and while Sibella was forced to retreat, the damage to the confidence of the Nomads far exceeded the harm to the structure. The Nomads, normally stoic and composed, were deeply concerned by Sibella’s actions. They understood the consequences of a breach between the realms, and the havoc that the malevolent forces would wreak on both worlds. The Nomads were committed to preventing such a catastrophe at all costs. 

As the Nomad spoke, they both heard bumping and banging, coming from the living room and the Nomad correctly reasoned that Ethan had woken up.  

“Put the Orb back where you found it” the Nomad said, standing up and arranging his cloak in a professional manner. The time for talking had come to an end. 

“I will see you tomorrow, in your dreams.” 

And suddenly, Sonnet was alone 

–