It was late when Angus finally made it to his accommodations. He surveyed the comfortable room. It reminded him of an old-fashioned hotel with velvet chairs and brass lamps. The inviting bed called to him with crisp white sheets and a deep blue satin bedspread. A small refrigerator held snacks and beverages, and a large basket of toiletries occupied the washroom counter, with a fuzzy bathrobe and slippers folded neatly beside it.
As he was tucking the last of his clothes away, a flicker of movement at the window caught his attention. Standing on long bird legs, a downy, blue ball the size of an egg turned to him and sang “La-la-la,” then hopped off the sill and was gone. Shortly after that, someone knocked politely.
"Hello there," said Clavis as Angus opened the door, "I see you’ve settled in. If you need anything else, just let them know at the front desk."
"So, on to mentoring." he continued. "It is unusual to have the Keeper of Thrum as a mentor, and you are my first apprentice. I don't think it has ever happened before. Thrum must have an interesting melody for you to sing."
Should I tell him that I can’t sing? Angus decided to bring it up later.
“One of the first duties of a mentor is to get their apprentice a watch," said Clavis. "And for that, we go to the Observatory. I know it’s late, but are you up for a walk?" Angus nodded and tied his shoelaces in a triple knot. Tutters tie triple knots, Uncle Benjamin always said.
"I don't need a watch," said Angus as they walked down the hall, "I get the time from my phone." Angus pulled out his flip phone, (his uncle wouldn’t allow a smartphone because it could connect to the internets), and saw that he wasn’t getting any reception.
"Your phone won't work down here," said Clavis, "It also won't be correct because of the time dilation."
"Maybe I do want a watch then," Angus conceded.
"I'm sure you will," nodded Clavis, "They’re a little different from the ones you're used to."
They exited the residence and took a winding path, soon passing a group of musicians playing in the open air.
"Ah, one of my favorites," Clavis smiled, "a composition called Simple Gifts from Appalachian Spring by Aaron Copland. Every night after dinner, anyone can find a pleasant spot and join the Tune In. It's like walking through a Symphony instead of watching it."
Angus found it interesting that each musician played a different pattern, yet somehow it all worked together. Even the odd little creatures in the undergrowth hummed along sweetly.
"How do all the sounds fit together so nicely?" asked Angus.
“The effect is called harmony,” Clavis explained. “The sound vibration from each instrument is mathematically related to the others. Sometimes a sound that does not fit the pattern is introduced, called dissonance, which adds emotion to the music. Mind you, this is the simplest of explanations; the physics of sound is complex and worthy of a lifetime of study.”
"It sure sounds amazing," said Angus, listening to the music, "All cities should have people playing instruments everywhere. Are there any other places like this?"
“There are quite a few Cities of Thrum. Benthos is the capital and specializes in symphonic orchestral music, but other cities have their own cultures and styles. There will be many performances by visiting artists during your stay here. When you’re ready, I’ll do my best to arrange travel and instruction in any location that appeals to you; it’s one of my duties as a mentor.”
"Are they all underwater?"
"Some are underwater, as it is a good place to hide," said Clavis, "But there are Thrum cities in the mountains, deserts, arctic, and some even hide in plain sight."
"When can I go?" asked Angus.
"That won’t happen for quite some time; you have much to learn before then. Each city has different rules and beliefs," Clavis explained, "They all respect music. Still, we have our differences when it comes to other things. In some cities, you will be welcomed at any time, but others accept only specifically invited visitors. Benthos is open to anyone as long as their intentions are true, and they resonate with Thrum."
They passed the glass structure where Angus had eaten earlier, conveniently located between the two large residential buildings.
"I’m sure you enjoyed your meal at the Grand Dome," said Clavis, "You can grab a bite to eat there twenty-four hours a day, and there is often exceptional entertainment at night. You’ll get your chance to be up there on the big stage by and by."
"The Lagoon," continued Clavis, as they approached the dock, "is in the city center and is the main entrance. One day you’ll join Beethoven's 9th Symphony to open the whirlpool. We do this every twenty-four days, allowing a daily boat in the outside world."
"Who's this Beethoven guy I keep hearing about?" asked Angus.
"I'm surprised you've never heard of him," said Clavis. "He was one of the most talented Composers who ever lived. About two hundred years ago, he held the same position as me; Keeper of Thrum.”
"He invented the whirlpool, helped create Tuner's communication interface, and designed many more of our systems, which I'm sure you'll discover during your stay." Clavis added, "He even continued writing while going deaf."
"Sounds like a great man," said Angus. "I'm a composer as well, right?"
"Why would you think that?" asked Clavis.
"Well, because those pirates are after me," Angus mused, "and you said they’re kidnapping composers."
"Well, that is true," Clavis agreed, "but there may be another reason they are after you. You have a strong, unique resonance pattern. You are a Descant, a voice removed from others, harmonious but different."
"You mentioned that in the music store," said Angus. “But I don’t feel different. I’m just an average kid.”
“You are far from average,” Clavis huffed, “In time, we shall see what those variations are. Descants bring change, but it can be for the better or worse.”
“Could it be something to do with my abnormal eyes?” asked Angus.
"I highly doubt it," said Clavis with a chuckle, "Your eye color is certainly rare, but it can be caused by several factors. You just seem to resonate with unusual complexity. I'm confident we'll figure it out eventually."
A trombonist winked at Clavis, his cheeks puffing out with each note.
“Why would anyone want to kidnap composers?” wondered Angus.
“That is a good question,” said Clavis, “While I do not know the precise answer, I do have a guess. A special ability is lost when a musician slips out of tune with Thrum. They can no longer create original music.”
“So, they need other people to write music for them?”
“Yes,” replied Clavis, “the kidnappers may be out-of-tune musicians. But this is all speculation.”
“How does someone get out of tune?” asked Angus.
“Excellent question with many answers,” said Clavis, “Usually, it’s the lure of wealth, power, fame, and all those generally unwholesome notions. But the simplest way to explain it is that musicians go out of tune when they become selfish. Don’t worry. I sense that your tuning is robust and sound.”
Angus nodded thoughtfully.
Birds and other animals scurried about in the lush gardens as they walked. Although it wasn't bright, it was still relatively light for the late hour. The illumination seemed to undulate slowly across the watery ‘sky,’ glowing slightly blue, almost like the northern lights, but a lot more intense.
"I see you're wondering about the lighting system," said Clavis. "I like to call it our perpetual twilight. The city gives off a constant, low-frequency musical pattern. It attracts billions of bioluminescent sea creatures to the edges of the dome. We just stop playing the music at night, and they swim away. We’re keeping them up a bit late tonight for the newcomers. By the way, the dome is not glass; it is a giant air bubble. Come on, and I’ll show you how it’s done."
Clavis brought them to the edge of the Lagoon, and a violin swirled into solidity in his hands. As he played, a column of water rose, then rippled into the form of a lion. It softened and flowed to become a ballerina, a birthday cake, and finally, a ferocious dragon. "You see, Angus," said Clavis, "it turns out water is easy to control with music. It is one of our closest friends and is important for life itself. Our bodies are made mostly of water, which is one reason music moves us as it does. It is also one of our weaknesses, vulnerable to manipulation."
They traveled on and came to another dome-like structure with dozens of spiral towers sticking out of it like upside-down screws. Four spires were so high they pierced the city's water ceiling.
"This is the Conservatory, Angus, where we all learn music. It's filled with rehearsal rooms, amphitheaters, classrooms, and everything you need to master any Instrument. Tika, the Sage of Instruments, is in charge, and many masters offer instruction. You will spend much time here once your Instrument finds you."
"I was talking with my friends, and they said that instruments are alive. Is that true?" Angus inquired.
"Well," replied Clavis, "it depends on your definition of ‘alive.’ I prefer to think that everything is alive; it’s more a question of how alive things are. And if your question is how alive are Instruments, then my answer would be very alive indeed."
"So, you're not going to teach me how to play an instrument?" asked Angus.
"No," Clavis shook his head. "I am here to teach you, but not how to play Instruments. A mentor's primary job is to teach the apprentice about the apprentice."
"That doesn't make sense," Angus looked at Clavis, puzzled.
"Oh, it most certainly does," laughed Clavis. "Mentors are like the audience, while the apprentice is the performer. One cannot perform and watch simultaneously; you need someone trusted to give feedback and help you grow. Remember, anything you tell me confidentially, I cannot reveal to another soul, nor would I ever want to. I am here to help you discover who you truly are."
Clavis stopped walking and leaned in closer to Angus.
"I'll start by sharing a secret," Clavis offered. "My birth name is Clarence Specklebottom. Don't worry. It’s okay to laugh."
Angus giggled as Clavis, puffing a little, patted a bench and sat.
"As you can imagine, I don't find it particularly flattering," said Clavis. "No one else alive knows my birth name. Feel free to try and tell your friends. I’m sure you'll be surprised you won't be able to."
"Okay, I'll try to tell them tomorrow," said Angus.
"There's also one other cool thing a mentor does," Clavis brightened, "We help you create your Persona."
"Like when the Guardian on the ship put on her superhero costume?" asked Angus.
"Yes, the Guardians," noted Clavis, "have magnificent Personas. Personas allow the bearer to express thoughts, traits, and imaginings that would otherwise be hidden and bring them into the physical world. Many people choose not to reveal their Persona unless they are on stage or in battle as they can attract a great deal of attention."
"Kind of like Clark Kent and Superman?" asked Angus.
"Yes, just like superheroes and their alter egos," Clavis confirmed as he stood. "Let's head to the Observatory, and I'll show you how you can start creating yours."
They walked to the eastern part of the city and approached a bizarre-looking building that resembled a cluster of giant bubbles stuck together. The bubbles spun and rotated like clock gears but in three dimensions. It was mesmerizing.
"Finally, our destination, the Observatory." Clavis announced, "Here, we observe the earth to see where conflicts arise, and music is needed most. Sometimes, we can see different possible futures and guide events in directions that lead to positive outcomes. It's also where you get a watch."
They entered a crowded lobby and proceeded to a kiosk with a sign that read ‘Watches,’ spelled out with moving sprockets and cogwheels. A young woman wearing old-fashioned spectacles sat behind the counter.
"Clavis!" she beamed, “It’s been a while; lovely to see you.”
"Why, thank you, Tempus," said Clavis, "I’m here with my first apprentice. I’m hoping you can find a watch for him."
"Most certainly," replied Tempus. "Young man, you seem like the type who might like something…high-tech?" She pulled a tray from the display.
"Are those smartwatches?" asked Angus.
"Ah, the kids all like these,” she chuckled. "No, not exactly smartwatches, but I assure you, they’re better."
"I think he'll take one," said Clavis with a smile.
Angus strapped the watch to his wrist, and it vibrated for a second. He lifted it to check the display, but there was nothing but a swirl of moving particles.
"I think it’s broken," Angus shook his wrist. "It doesn't even tell time."
Clavis frowned and looked.
"Oh, dear, I think you are correct. Your watch hasn’t synced." Clavis tapped the face.
Angus felt another buzz, and 11:34 p.m. appeared at the top of the display. At the bottom, he noted a little house icon. The swirling particles had condensed into a compact round cloud in the middle.
"That's better," said Clavis, "You have the proper time now. Tap on the house symbol at the bottom to check the time and date at home; it can get confusing."
"This is cool!” said Angus. “What’s the cloudy circle thing for?"
"Oh, that’s unusual," noted Clavis. "The central display is unique to the wearer. It’s sort of an interface and has several functions. You’ll understand when you get a notification."
"Who does my watch communicate with?" Angus wondered.
Clavis shrugged. “I suppose that depends on the message. It’s short-range and doesn’t work through water. Tuner can explain in detail if you ask.”
“Let’s move on to our next stop,” said Clavis, navigating through heavy foot traffic. He passed under a broad, intricately carved arch bearing the words ‘Queste Portum’ on the keystone. Angus attempted to follow but met with an invisible resistance.
Clavis chuckled, “No matter what you do, you cannot enter this gallery yet.”
Sure that Clavis was joking, Angus took several steps back and tried again. The rubbery barrier would not allow him to pass.
“Let me guess,” said Angus, “I’m not high enough level?”
Clavis stood a little straighter, “Why, you are absolutely correct! This is the Questing Room. You’ll have to gain experience and qualifications before entering; there is potential for great danger here.”
Through the arch, Angus could see that the Questing Room was a cavernous space lined with doors of all shapes and sizes. At least ten stories high, staircases and walkways allowed an orderly flow between uncountable destinations. When a group or individual exited a door, it vanished, and a new but different looking one appeared.
“Those are portals to situations where we can assist,” informed Clavis. “When you’re ready, you’ll start to receive notifications on your watch regarding quests appropriate to your abilities and skills. If you’re available, find the door that matches your quest, and it will take you where you are needed.”
Clavis and Angus left the great building and headed to a busy shopping district. Glamorous displays boasted fabulous outfits and accessories. Every booth was unique, and every piece was exceptional. Top hats, neon makeup, bird masks, gothic shoes, and even items to dress up an instrument competed for shoppers’ attention.
"Quite a variety," Clavis surveyed the market approvingly.
“I normally don’t like shopping, but this is awesome,” Angus laughed. “Wow, look at those bat wings. How on earth would you store them?”
"That's another feature of your watch," said Clavis. "Like crystals storing instruments, watches can store your Persona. Once you acquire an item, just hit that button on the top left, and it will move to your inventory. From there, you can equip whatever you want. It's a bit more practical than changing in a phone booth like Superman, I must say."
Angus picked up a pair of towering platform shoes and looked for a tag. "There’s no price on them.”
"Correct," said Clavis, " Persona items are traded or gifted and occasionally purchased with tokens; we have our own currency for that sort of thing. You’ll have to work that out on your own, but you’ll find that people are eager to help with Persona development. You should not refuse any item given to you, but feel free to trade gifts for something that suits you better. If you find an item in your travels that might fit any Persona, do your best to acquire it; someone will be grateful.
These vendors are passionate about fashion; music is just one of the things our people are good at! You’ll find artists and experts from every realm imaginable in our cities. Some of these Persona items have been brought in from the furthest corners of the earth, while others were crafted right here.
Like the portal room, you won’t be able to use your Persona until ready; most items have special abilities, and some are weapons. In the meantime, just ask for any ordinary clothing you need at the residence."
Angus approached a booth displaying a vast selection of eyewear. Several spinning racks held contact lenses of every color and description. Some looked big enough to entirely cover the eyeball. There were many ordinary glasses and sunglasses; others were tiny lenses attached to ear hooks and headbands, while a few covered the face entirely.
“Why are there so many glasses?” Angus selected a pair made of wood, “And why have I seen so many people wearing them? Does the lighting down here damage eyesight?”
Clavis turned and winked at Angus, and then his glasses darkened momentarily. “It’s because they aren’t just glasses. They store written music, so we don’t have to memorize everything, like cue cards. The lenses create an overlay of musical notation displayed in any form you find convenient. I believe video games currently ‘borrow’ the idea, calling it Augmented Reality. Ours is far superior.”
Angus tried a pair on, and strange symbols scrolled past his vision. A joyful smile grew on Angus’s face.
"So," beamed Angus. "This is just like a video game!"
"Well, I suppose," Clavis smiled wryly, "Just like a video game."