Big Zee's eyes widened as he gradually adapted to the blurry figures that had entered into his room.
"Pops, it's Rez. I have some visitors who say they know uncle T, and better yet, they're the ones responsible for the explosion," Rez said.
"I can see who you are, ijitt. Speak up and tell me what you have to say. While I may not be blind, my hearing is questionable," Big Zee responded.
The elderly lizard lowered his hands onto the armrest of his chair and lifted his feet off the table. He sat up slowly, suddenly more alert. He met the gaze of the six creatures in front of him, who stood motionless like statues. Zarda too curiously examined the horned lizards face, noting the similarities between him and his brother Thurston. The only distinct difference was Zee's black, thin, and long beard. His scales were a light cream color with small brown speckles. Unlike Thurston, Zee's face showed fewer signs of age, though he bore several scars, one above his left eye and one on the side of his left cheek.
Despite his rough appearance and unfriendliness, Zarda was surprised to find that he was as friendly as Thurston.
Zee asked, "You know my brother? I haven't seen him in years. I miss that old coot. How do you know him?"
Zarda propped Osborn against Dane as he edged closer to the desk.
"I am familiar with your brother through Havardr, the sanctuary for lost and abandoned animal kingdoms" he replied.
Big zee eyed the lion cautiously as he took in the newcomers words. He pondered carefully upon the information he was receiving.
Zarda took a deep breath before launching into a detailed and lengthy recount of their recent experiences. He began by introducing himself and sharing his origins, then went on to describe his time in Havardr and the warm welcome he and his friends had received from Thurston. Zarda talked about Zee's brothers success and happiness in his new home, but also made sure to convey Thurston's longing for his family. He mentioned Thurston's advice to mention his name if they ever encountered the lizard mafia, as Thurston's family would help them. Zarda then explained the events leading up to their decision to leave Havardr before the battle. He was unsure of Thurston's fate. He outlined their plans to journey to Africa, which ultimately resulted in the crash that brought them into Big Zee'sterritory.
Big Zee took a moment before responding to the news, "My brother is your friend, which makes you a friend of mine as well. I'm happy to hear he was doing well, and I hope the battle didn't cause him any trouble. I have always wanted to travel to be with my brother, and now I finally have the chance. Seems like I have more reason to go than to stay. My brother may need me, if he's still alive that is. I am no longer able to lead the troops as I used to. The system here has changed since my time. President Abaji, from the Birbiblos territory, is now in charge. He is the reason this building exists and I'm still alive. He controls everything in this territory. As long as we are on his side, my troops and family are safe."
After stopping briefly to gather his thoughts, he quickly resumed his story.
"In fact, as our family expanded, so did the political parties in the desert territories. Thurston couldn't handle it and decided to leave. A month after his departure, I encountered trouble not with Abaji, but with our rival territory leader, President
Saurkear of Ghaythfa, known as the horned Viper. He's a nasty and venomous creature. Luckily, President Abaji intervened and saved my life. He appointed me to oversee his building, the Zenith Illithid here in the city of Nomad, ensuring my family's safety. Now that I am old enough to retire, I plan to pass on my position to my son Rez and his brother Grizk. Before I leave, I wonder how hard it will be to locate my brother?" Asked Big Zee.
Zarda was hopeful for Zee's well-being. He provided him with more detailed instructions on the best way to travel, what to look out for, including information about Hellir, Arvid, Fljot, and, most importantly, Havardr. Zarda also mentioned, that if Zee became lost and was able to come across an animal settlement between Merrigold Valley and Bolder Peaks, he should ask for Vidar, who would be a safe and friendly guide to help locate Thurston. Zarda explained that there were two high lords overseeing Havardr, Lord Asger and Lady Sindri, even though momentarily he was unaware of Asger's recent departure. He wished Zee luck in finding Thurston, and that he would find happiness as a gardener like his brother had.
Big Zee was thankful for Zardas help and encouragement. It only confirmed him more that leaving was the right decision. He turned his attention back to Rez.
"Make sure Zarda and his group are looked after, Rez. We are all family now, his included," commanded Big Zee.
Out of nowhere, Osborn let out a groan of pain, causing everyone, including Zarda, to turn and look at him. The bear, originally a beautiful dark brown, was now fading to pale gray. Unable to wait any longer, Zarda hurried to his friend's side for help. Osborn weakly turned his eyes up towards his friend.
"I'm not feeling my self, mate. I think something is terribly wrong inside me. I feel weak" Osborn announced before fainting in his friend's arms.
Zarda used all his strength to assist in holding up his friend, while Dane also pitched in by positioning his large upper body under the bear. Oridian started crying as she tightly held onto Pipsie. The young skunk also wept for her frail friend. Vulpix too, rushed over to lend support from behind Osborn, with great effort.
Zarda returned his focus to Big Zee, expressing concern.
"He's in need of assistance. I tried my best to treat his wounds, but I believe the lack of rest, hydration, and proper care has worsened his condition. We require a place to stay. I seen you have many rooms in the previous hallway. Could we possibly have one for our friend?" Zarda asked, his voice filled with anguish.
Big Zee was all too familiar with the pain of watching a loved one die, having already lost a son and daughter to the deadly bite of Saurkear. Seeing Osborn in a similar state spurred him to act swiftly.
"Ijitt, go get the medical team and bring a gurney to transport the bear to a room. Hurry, this big guy doesn't look like he'll make it much longer," commanded Zee.
Rez quickly exited the room, leaving Thriruuzk, Throk, Akkis, and Six with their uncle Zee. The sons of Thurston were Throk and Thriruuzk, while Akkis and Six were the ijitt's of Mirix, Thurston's and Big Zee's, younger sister. The term "ijitt" was their unique way of referring to their family members, meaning child, kid, son, or daughter. Everyone of them at one point of life was called by that title.
The weak bear was coming in out of consciousness. Osborn gradually regained himself and turned to Zarda in search of answers. Despite being unable to recall what he had said before losing wakefulness, he repeated himself. His heartbeat quickened, and he felt a surge of panic. Gasping for air, he felt as though his lungs were collapsing inside his chest.
Big Zee rose to his feet, his towering height standing out among the group, especially compared to others. He walked up to Osborn holding a bottle of water, offering it to the distressed bear. Osborn trembled and shook, refusing to drink. Zarda and Dane gently guided Osborn to the ground, watching helplessly as he unraveled before their eyes.
Zarda's only instinct was to pray to Elohim, silently begging for his master's help. As Zarda finished his prayer, Rez and the medical team rushed into the room with a gurney, oxygen tank, and IV bag for Osborn. They struggled to move the heavy bear onto the gurney, eventually they succeeded with help.
Eight animals, including three members of the medical team, Rez, Zee, Zarda, Dane, and Vulpix, worked together to lift Osborn. The three medical lizards quickly moved down the hall, towards the residence area, where a specific room had been set up for Osborn.
Zarda's group trailed closely behind three female medical lizards. One had dark brown hair tied up and was dressed in green linen, while another had blonde spikes and large hoop earrings. She was more agile than the first. The third lizard, who had long, flowy black hair was pushing the gurney from behind keeping one hand on the IV bag.
The trio approached the first vacant room on the left side of the hall. They paused, waiting for the doors to slide open before entering.
Inside the room, the trio carefully helped roll Osborn onto the fresh, clean bed in the room. The oxygen mask appeared to have a soothing effect on his breathing. Osborn appeared frail, too feeble to even open his eyes and see who watched from a far. Zarda anxiously looked on from the doorway, reminiscing about their time together at Nexus and Havardr. A lone tear trickled down his cheek.
He was astonished by how quickly he had come to love Osborn like a brother. Zarda's heart simply couldn't bear the thought of losing another family member. His life, which Elohim had deemed so blessed, seemed to bring hardship to those around him, leaving him often heartbroken. How could he recognize the beauty of a blessing amid such profound loss?
"Keep fighting, my friend. I won't let you go," Zarda whispered softly.
Oridian placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, standing faithfully beside him, while Pipsie clung to Vulpix. Dane leaned against the wall, struggling to watch the unfolding scene. Each of them offered a silent prayer, wishing for a miracle as they waited.
Unbeknownst to Zarda, his life served as a testament to those around him. This humble assembly of diverse family members found inspiration in him, observing his unwavering faith and the power of his deity. Gradually, they started to trust in the Master and reached out to Him. Amid the sorrow, a quiet beauty emerged. Elohim was exalted through Zarda's struggles, bestowing favor as a blessing upon him and those who chose to follow.