Day 24:  I set forth on a long, weary trek though the mountain pass to save the Kashmir region from self-destruction. Although the altitude and blizzard like conditions were horrendous the cave provided palatial like shelter. The prior occupants had left sufficient wood for at least three nights' stay and hay for a bed. One night was sufficient and I used this time to gather my strength to mentally join my wife and family back in Touriqi. They were saddened by my absence but understood this journey must be taken if negotiations were to be had with the folk in the north. They ate well and slumbered. I felt joy in my heart and slept feeling their warmth. 

Day 25: I pulled myself to my feet rejuvenated and sensing a strength like none before. The blizzard had subsided and there were clear skies and mountain peaks to greet me. The snow filled trail opened in front of me leading the way, the snow magically melting away. One step at a time. My shamanic powers were at its peak and my mission was not for the weary. Each step was providing a clarity of my discourse with the king and his military men, who were not so bright but simply warriors that could be easily duped with women and wine.

Day 26: The descent was quick yet arduous given the altitude and my physical age but I could see the green valley below and a river that glistened and snaked downward, to the Orion Kingdom. My heart pounded with delight at the thought of establishing a peace settlement with words not arms with the Orion peoples. Our differences were petty and my magic would hypnotize the king and his advisors. These visions pleased me and fed my soul and the sun on my wrinkled face and chapped lips became smooth and youthful again, this pleased me. Suddenly a rabbit bounced in front of me, it sniffed the air and ran off, down a hole. Then two more rabbits appeared more curious this time with my presence. With time I was surrounded by rabbits but these were no normal rabbits upon closer inspection. 

These rabbits had an overall normal look to them, but I soon realized that I could not use my powers on them. I was drawing a blank and had no inclination on what their thoughts were. I was left baffled and found myself to be more than upset. Without hesitation, I barked out “What kind of strange magic is this?” All rabbits simultaneously tilted their heads at me with the same puzzled expression. And then one spoke up. 

He said, “We have been waiting for you.” 

“You can talk?!” I say as I feel myself fall backward.

The same rabbit continues to tell me that they were the center of a science experiment gone wrong. 

“This isn’t happening. The lack of rest and supplies are playing tricks on me. My mind is not right. I need to collect my thoughts.” I say this aloud thinking that I am the only one here.