“Yes we are doing this for Him, but that isn’t the reason why we’re barred from entering the island unscathed,” Morgan said at this snide remark. “This is a test of strength…for he said that if you can’t survive the storm, you can’t survive on the island,” There was an intense pause; the four looked down in disbelief. “Now I want to make it clear that even though the island is holy and sacred, it isn’t 100% safe. There are dangers on the island that you wouldn’t believe. This is mainly due to the many creatures that inhabit it,” After another long, apprehensive, pause, Mayu spoke up.

“And what sorts of creatures would there be on the island?” a hint of fear rose in her voice.

“Well apart from the mayladen races and marobas, there are animals that have been extinct from the mainlands, as well as a few creatures of whom were thought to be mythical by mankind,” Morgan replied.

“Wait, when you say, animals that have been extinct from the mainlands, do you mean…like…prehistoric species?” Elijah spoke up.

“Yes,” Morgan responded.

“Dinosaurs? T-rex?!?” Elijah said mouth agape.

“Yes, Elijah, and he’s right, most of these animals aren’t necessarily…nice…” Gally replied to the comment. “Except maybe the mayladen races, but even they can be a little grumpy,”

“But just because there are dangers on the island doesn’t mean that there is a massive amount of death,” explained Mrs. Williams said trying to calm the nerves of the soldiers whose expressions were growing edgy. “You four are the incarnations of legendary soldiers for goodness sake! All from whom you gained extraordinary power. So I really don’t think defense or even protection from other animals is going to be a major problem for you,”

“Well that might be true…but, they really don’t understand their full potential yet,” Morgan added. “We’ll just have to see when the storm starts…”

Alan hardly spoke at all in the conversation; if any part of it was unnerving to them, it was bothering him the most. He tried not to think of the negative effect that could cause him fear. This was the first battle the four soldiers would face in a test of strength.

“So what happens if we don’t pass God’s…test of strength?” Alan finally spoke up.

“I think that might be a little obvious, Alan,” Elijah answered gently. “This is another “do or die” battle…” she tried to smile, but the actual realization of that statement brought her down as well.

“Yes, but that shouldn’t be a problem. All you really have to do is listen to my instructions,” said Morgan. The four nodded, but by the look of their faces their nerves were still a little uneasy. “Now the only way you’re going to pass this is to give it all you’ve got. Then, before you know it you will be across the brim and on the island,”

There was a shout from the crow’s nest and commotion was made on the upper decks. “Hmm…It’s time…” Gally said looking at the soldiers. They all followed him onto the portside of the ship. Gally began to show his captain side.

“Everyone brace yourselves! Batten down the hatches! Tie down everything that’s not already nailed to the floor! Men get ready for the ride of your life!” Gally shouted to the crew and got his first mate off the steering wheel and took it over himself. In the distance, massive storm clouds can be seen covering the sky.

“This is it, the calm before the storm has ended…” Morgan said looking out to the storm.

Go to Chapter Six:  Survival