Bubbles and Lost Dreams
Read by Rachel Lynn Anderice
Written by Karen Backway
Chapter 13 - Gathering Friends
Billy guided them to a nearby cave that would house them all.
“We have a problem. The Quillza want those magic buttons and they will not rest until they get them. The badgers and The Quillza have teamed up and they outnumber us by a lot. We have two very brave tiny tabby cats that climb well, though they don’t always follow instructions. We have two huge rather mucky golden-cream colored dogs with brute strength when defending their friends, and of course Radar for reporting back and advance warning. And finally there is me, a clattery old mountain goat, not much use for fighting. Am I missing anyone?”
“You didn’t mention Mama Bear, she might help us again,” Molly suggested. “She did give us some of her honey.”
“And maybe Galen, if that is his eagle screech in the mornings,” added Abby. “He might be willing to get a message to Mama Owl.”
Moon was quiet, but eventually said, “There is Shine, though I don’t want to involve her in these matters unless we absolutely must.”
Spunky lifted up his head, “Shine? She is near?” grinning from ear to ear.
“She is very safe where she is,” answered Moon. “And if possible I would like to leave her there.”
“Are you certain she would not want to help?” asked Abby. “I would be furious if you excluded me without asking.”
“I am certain,” Moon answered quite adamantly.
“But she lives? And you know where she is?” asked Spunky happily, still grinning.
“Yes and yes,” Moon said with a tear falling.
“We cannot be certain the screeching Eagle is friendly,” said Moon. “Though eagles dislike The Quillza and their mischief. Mama Bear monitors activity in the area but rarely interferes. I am surprised she gave you honey. Would other mountain goats want to help us, Billy?”
“Unlikely. Mountain goats keep to themselves in these parts,” said Billy. “I am a bit of a rebel, though I do know one fellow adventurer. She might be willing to kick up a fuss with us.”
“Perhaps Radar can get a message to her,” suggested Abby.
“Our little herd is on the other side of the ridge, east and north of The Champlain Gate,” said Billy. “Along The Twin Pine Valley Ridge.”
“I am happy to try, but will she listen to a stranger?” asked Radar.
“Tell her William sent you. Her name is Clarissa, she is the pretty one with the blue ribbon on her tail,” Billy said blushing. “If she doubts you, tell her I found the blue ribbon by the twin pines.”
“Can we spare Radar for a day, Spunky?” asked Molly.
“How can she help? Not safe here,” Spunky said.
“She knows the under-ridge tunnels well, and can navigate the cliffs with ease. She would be a wonderful guide if we need to split-up or get separated,” answered BIlly.
“That would be very helpful Spunk. The under-ridge tunnels are very confusing, even the badgers stay away from them,” said Moon. “They can be a great way to escape.”
“Go then Bee, be quick,” said Spunky.
“Meet us back at the landing where Billy set the tripwires,” Moon called to Radar as he buzzed away.
The group returned to the tripwire headquarters. Moon and Spunky kept watch, while Billy, Molly and Abby tried to get some rest.
“Billy doesn’t know about the pendant, does he?” asked Moon.
“Don’t think so,” answered Spunky.
“But he knows about the buttons?” asked Moon.
