She realized, as she stepped into this unfamiliar environment, that being fourteen and new here meant she had to make a good impression. The boys, and even the girls, were drawn to the sight of a hand extended towards them, offering a plate of freshly baked double chocolate cookies. The sweet aroma of the cookies, mixed with the subtle hints of raisins and almonds, filled the air, tempting their taste buds. It seemed that this treat was a favorite among the boys, alongside their love for pizza, tacos, and juicy hamburgers accompanied by a generous serving of greasy French fries.
But it wasn't just about the food. She knew that the way to a boy's heart was through his stomach, but also through his senses. The softness of her touch as she handed them the cookies, the warmth of her smile as she introduced herself, it all mattered. It felt odd, though, because she realized they had known each other from the start, even though they knew nothing about her. It was as if they had been brought here, kidnapped almost, and thrust into this new and strange environment. It was understandable that they would be cautious, just like she would be if she were in their shoes. This place, which would be their temporary home, was as unfamiliar to them as it was to her. They were all just trying to navigate their way through this new chapter, unsure of what lay ahead.
So, she began by introducing herself. The air was filled with the scent of freshly brewed coffee, as Mary spoke. Her voice was warm and inviting, carrying a sense of excitement and adventure. "My name is Mary," she said, her eyes twinkling with anticipation. "And the fellow over there is my husband Jasper," his laughter echoing through the room like a melodious symphony. "The man you met earlier is Jack," she said in a deep, resonant voice, his swift nod and bow of the head demanding your attention.
"We are what you would Call Time Travelers." The room was now adorned with ancient artifacts, their presence adding a hint of mystery and intrigue. As Mary explained, the sight of a world map covered in intricate markings caught your eye, representing the various races and civilizations they were protecting. The faint hum of unseen machinery filled the air, transporting you to a world beyond your imagination.
Outside, the wind whispered through the trees, carrying a faint scent of rain. The distant sound of thunder rumbled, reminding you of the power and danger that lurked beyond their sanctuary. Mary continued, her voice tinged with urgency, "Those things outside, those are what we call Time and Planet eaters." The sound of their relentless destruction reverberated in your ears, of chaos and despair. "They are not from here, their alien origins shrouded in mystery. They hail from a galaxy, about three billion light years away known as Higaonna's," the name rolling off Mary's tongue with a mix of reverence and fear.
"They feed upon its inhabitants, their hunger leaving a trail of devastation in their wake." The scent of burning ozone filled the air, a testament to the destruction they wrought. As Mary spoke, the room seemed to grow colder, a chilling reminder of the void left behind by the Time and Planet eaters.
"You three boys are what we call Ghosts," the word lingering in the air like a whispered secret. "The weight of your boys destiny will soon settle upon you," a tingling sensation running down your spine. "Soon, you will become Time Travelers, your senses attuned to the ebb and flow of time itself." The room seemed to shimmer with unseen energy, the air charged with possibility and potential.
"Now, how it works is a little more complicated." Mary's words hung in the air, surrounded by an aura of mystery. She promised to delve deeper into the intricacies later, but for now, there was a sense of anticipation and curiosity. A wave of excitement washed over you, tingling your fingertips and making your heart race.
"I will have my husband Jasper show you boys to your rooms," Mary said, her voice filled with warmth and hospitality. The sound of footsteps echoed in the hallway, Jasper's presence tangible even before he entered the room. He guided you through the corridors, the soft carpet beneath your feet muffling the sound of your steps. The scent of lavender hung in the air, a comforting and soothing fragrance.
Once they had reached their rooms, the door creaked open, revealing a cozy haven. The soft glow of a bedside lamp welcomed them, its gentle light casting a warm and inviting ambiance that enveloped the room. The sight of fresh towels and neatly laid out dry clothes brought a sense of relief, their clean scent permeating the air, promising comfort and solace. The boys couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions as they noticed their familiar belongings; their clothes, the very ones from their homes, hanging in the wardrobe. The walls adorned with posters and old photographs brought a flood of memories, the images capturing moments in time, reminding them of what was important. The room seemed to whisper to them, urging them to remember the stakes, to remember what they were giving up in order to face the harsh reality outside. It was a cruel reminder, but one that they knew was necessary. The sounds of the outside world seeped through the walls, a constant reminder of the impending danger. The howling wind and distant cries were a haunting symphony, driving home the fact that if they didn't act, if they didn't become Ghosts, if they didn't become Time Travelers, everything they held dear would be destroyed. The weight of this knowledge pressed upon them, creating a heavy atmosphere in the room. There was no turning back, for going back would mean failure and the death of everything they cherished. They had to be courageous, they had to embrace their new roles, for there was nothing left to go back to if they failed.
"Now go and I will put supper on," Mary's voice echoed in your mind, resonating with a gentle yet commanding tone. As she closed their doors, the soft sobs of the boys reverberated through the stillness, a symphony of heartbreak and realization. The scent of uncertainty hung in the air, mingling with the faint aroma of the meal being prepared in the kitchen. The weight of their circumstances settled upon them like a heavy blanket, suffocating any hope of returning home or finding solace in the arms of a loving family.
They were trapped in this moment, like ghosts haunting their own existence, with nothing but each other and the haunting memories of an unchangeable past. They could almost feel the hands of time gripping them tightly, pulling them further into the abyss of their destiny. The life of a time traveler was a tumultuous journey, filled with hardship and sacrifice, yet also held the potential for great reward. It demanded an unwavering belief in the fluidity of the past, present, and future, and an acceptance of the seemingly impossible.
Mary, having shed her own fair share of tears, now entrusted them with the task of releasing their own. As she left them in their rooms, the sensation of not being imprisoned but rather protected from the dangers lurking outside enveloped them. They could feel her love, a warm embrace that shielded them from the wolves prowling in the darkness. She had loved them since the moment they took their first breaths, watching them grow into the young men they were now. It was a bittersweet truth that, in the vast expanse of time, they would eventually pass on their duties to others, continuing the legacy of the Ghosts and Time Travelers. This was the life they had chosen, a life they embraced with every fiber of their being. Mary slipped a note under the door, a small reassurance that everything would be alright. And perhaps, in the grand tapestry of time, it would be. But not for a very long time. as you made your way towards the kitchen. The aroma of sizzling garlic and savory herbs wafted through the air, making your mouth water. The feeling of anticipation mingled with the sound of sizzling pans, creating an atmosphere of bustling activity.
But before they could indulge in the feast that awaited, Mary reached over and gave each of them a hug. Her embrace was gentle, offering a sense of reassurance and belonging. The soft touch of her lips on your cheek left a lingering warmth, a reminder that you were now part of something greater. And so, with anticipation bubbling in your chest, you eagerly followed her meticulous instructions, ready to embark on this extraordinary journey that lay ahead. Heightening the feeling of adventure that coursed through your veins. Deep inside, a gnawing sensation tugged at your gut, a constant reminder of the weight of the task at hand.
Each of the boys, their hearts heavy with uncertainty, inwardly groaned, their voices laced with a touch of desperation. The room was dimly lit, casting long shadows on the walls, adding to the weight of their emotions. The lingering question echoed in their minds, drowning out any other sound in the room. Their restless fingers tapped on the table, creating a rhythmic beat that underscored their unease. The air was thick with the scent of fear, a mix of sweat and anticipation, as they grappled with the decision they had made. They clung to a flicker of hope, yearning for the possibility that somehow, someway, a farewell might become possible.
The room felt suffocating, as if the walls were closing in, mirroring their sense of entrapment. Yet, to embark on their journey, they knew they would have to become Ghosts, slipping through the cracks of time unseen, and then become Time Travelers, their presence flickering in and out of existence. The weight of their responsibility pressed upon them, like an invisible burden on their shoulders. Guiding and protecting humanity again, they would have to be willing to believe the impossible, the scent of uncertainty lingering in the air. Their loved ones, their absence now a void in their lives, would need an explanation, a reassurance that they understood the reasons behind their sudden departure. They hoped, almost desperately, that their loved ones would comprehend their choice, even though deep down they knew it was unlikely. The room seemed to hold its breath, waiting for the moment of revelation, a silent plea for understanding. Oh God, why couldn't we just have stayed home? The thought hung heavy in the air, a bitter taste on their tongues. Now, there is no home to go back to, not for who knows when.
Peter looked over at his two best friends, the weight of their shared burden almost tangible in the air. They exchanged glances, their eyes filled with a mix of determination and fear. They knew the path that lay ahead, the dangers that awaited them. Time Travel, Ghosts, and worst of all, Planet eaters and Time Killers. That is why they were here, in this moment of uncertainty. That is why they no longer had a home to call their own. With anger in his voice, Peter tightened his grip around his fork, feeling the metal bend beneath his clenched fist. The room trembled with his frustration as he yelled, his voice reverberating off the walls, "God why? Why did you pick me? The room fell silent as he realized there was no one who could answer his question among the Time Travelers present. They were familiar with the answer, a question that had been repeatedly raised among them. The answer was always hard to stomach: "Because you were needed, my dear Traveler. It is your true destiny; one you were born for. It will be more than a challenge compared to simple mortal life. However, one day, you will be glad that I chose you for it. Although it won't be easy, you will never be alone. We, your brothers and sisters, Time Travelers, will always be with you."