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Description
Time Trials: Audition

Way to Get Manipulated, Moron

Fate tends to be rather cruel dealer when it comes to life.  It deals a good hand to the fortunate and one of misfortune to the hapless who receive them.  Especially me, considering how often I get such a horrid hand dealt to me.

I digress, I doubt any of you came to listen, or read in this case, to me ramble on about my life.  As such, I'll simply give a background summary about my world and myself before I delve into the real story.

I come from the world of Junction, often referred to as the "World Between Worlds".  Strange title, but a true one nonetheless.  The title stems from the fact that my universe literally connects the different alternate dimensions together, hence the name "Junction".  Most are never even aware that they pass through it as they travel through the multiverse.

Now considering that my world is at the center of all things, so to speak, it is the very source of my hapless luck.  Being one of the best detectives of Junction, I am responsible for cases that involve those that travel through and to my homeworld, which also includes the supernatural and impossible.  I loathe my position with a passion.

Unfortunately, my minor scrying ability and wit has cemented me in a position of solving many of the unsolvable cases involving the many species, wonders, and horrors that cross into my world.  Homicide, disappearances, and conspiracies consist of most of my cases.

Speaking of cases, I happen to be in the middle of my current one as I narrate to you.

"Oh dear, Fortuna, how do I manage to get myself into these situations?!"

In case you hadn't figured it out, I happen to be running for my life at the moment.  To be more specific, I happen to be running in an alley of warehouses from an oni that happens to be roughly twice my height and carrying a giant wooden club that it's going to use to smash me with.  Not a comfortable position I'm in, mind you.

"Where is Fiona?  She should be back with help by now!"

"Get back, Squishy!"  Shouted the hulking giant as it continued to gain ground on me.  You'd think something that big would be slow, but that is a horrible, horrible misconception.

How I wish I had my lantern with me right now.  I would at the very least be able to defend myself.  Really wishing I hadn't dropped it when this guy ambushed me.

"Fiona!  If you're going to help, do it now!"  I shouted at the top of my lungs.

"I smash you now!"  the behemoth roared as it raised its enormous club.

You know how they say you see your life flash before your eyes before you die?  Please tell anyone who says that to piss off.

Thankfully, today wasn't my final day on Junction as the sound of heavy machinery and  something made of wood falling onto the oni's head stopped him from turning me into a red pancake.

"Sorry I'm late, Ricky.  Are you alright?"  came an energetic and feminine voice.

My head turned to meet the one of my spectral assistant, Fiona, floating over the downed oni with several pieces of what was formally a box scattered around them.

"No better, worse for wear."  I replied as I walked over to properly apprehend my would-be murderer.  "You're timing could use some work though, Fiona.  That was bloody damn near too close for comfort."

"Sorry 'bout that, Ricky."  I'm fairly certain she was blushing with embarrassment, but it's always hard to tell with the undead.  Oh great, now she's giving me that sorrowful, apologetic look.  Bloody hell, I hate it when she gives me that look.  "But it took me a while for me to get the crane working."

"Well, at least you managed to get it working without having a clue as to how it works", I said as I cuffed the oni with my set of handcuffs.  "Saved my scrawny arse there.  So, I have to give you my thanks, Fiona.  You kept me from knocking on Death's door right there."

I'm so weak.

Fiona's face lit up much like my lantern in the black of night at hearing my thanks, as pitiful as it was.  Speaking of lanterns...

"Fiona, you wouldn't happen to know where my lantern is, would you?

She thought for a moment, pressing a finger to her lip as I watched the gears her head turned.  After watching her for several moments, a light bulb seemed to go off in her head as her face lit up with a smile and disappeared.  She returned a moment later from one of the nearby warehouses with my lantern in her ghostly hands.

"Here it is, Ricky!"  her joyous voice echoing in the alley as she brought my unlit lantern to me.

You must be wondering why I seem to care about lantern, am I correct?  Well, my personal lantern has the ability to ward off ectoplasmic beings and the like.  For those of you who are ignorant of the supernatural, I was referring to ghosts, ghouls, and other spooky creatures.  Still haven't a clue as to why Fiona isn't affected by it.

"Thank you, Fiona,"  taking my lantern from her.  "Ignis."  The lantern instantaneously lit itself at my command.

"So what now, Ricky?"  My ectoplasmic assistant asked me.

I suddenly felt the urge to say, 'The same thing we do every night.  Try and take over the world!'

"We wait for the police to arrive.  Captain Dervish should be here with some help soon."  I said as I sat myself down on a nearby wooden box.  Running for one's life takes a surprising amount of energy.

The wail of sirens screaming interrupts any further thoughts.  They always seem to arrive after everything is over.  I swear there's a conspiracy of something.

"And speak of the devil, here they come."

The screech of tires and shouting could be heard nearby as the officers quickly deployed.  I could hear the patter of their footsteps on the concrete ground as they raided the nearby warehouses.  Now all I need to do is alert them of my location so I can get out of her and get this carnivorous oni behind bars.

It was at that point that I noticed that Fiona had disappeared.  She must have gone to fetch the Captain.  I swear that girl can read my mind sometimes.

"Good job, Detective Spectre", came a proud and burly voice from the opening of the alley.  "Not only did you find the kidnapper, but you managed to apprehend the off-worlder before he could consume any of his victims.  I'll just take this criminal off your hands and you can head off afterwards.  Job well done I must say," extending his hand to shake in congratulations.

This is Captain Dervish, a very proud and probably one of the best officers on Junction.  He's a towering Draco, a human-like dragon, with dark green scales and typically wears warm clothing in addition to the heavy black trench coat he normally wears.  He's a cop on the straight and narrow, refusing to tolerate any who break the law.  As much of a hardass as he is, I begrudgingly respect the man.  Emphasis on the begrudging.

I found it a tad difficult getting up and standing at that moment, likely due to the adrenaline wearing off from my near death experience.  I wearily shook his scaly hand and felt as if my wrist may have fractured.  Why the bloody hell are reptiles so strong?

"Thank you, Captain.  I would have appreciated you arriving a bit sooner though.  Almost became this bloke's dinner."  I gestured to the oni that tried to kill me just minutes earlier.

"Then work on your writing your reports then, detective.  Hardly anyone can read the chicken scratch that is your handwriting", he gruffly retorted with a knowing look that he had won the short-lived argument.

I don't think I've ever wanted to wipe that smug grin off his scaly face more than now.

"Alright then, Detective Spectre, I'll just take this criminal off your hands and you can be off", he said as he lugged the hulking oni over his shoulder as if it weighed nothing.  Just before he left the alley, the arse had to add one last smug comment,  "Oh, and be sure to have your paperwork done by tomorrow.  I don't want to have to wait a month just for you to fill out a simple report again, Spectre."

I really hate that guy.

"We did it, Ricky!"  My ever optimistic assistant exclaimed with joy as she suddenly appeared in front of me and hugged me.  I gotta say, being hugged by an ectoplasmic entity is a rather strange sensation.  "We saved everyone and stopped the bad guy!"

As annoying as her childish antics can be, I can't really get mad at her.  Her being an amnesiac tends to suppress any sarcastic or cynical remark I could make about her.  I suppose that's my conscience preventing me from doing so.  I wonder why it doesn't seem to apply to anyone else?

"Yes we did,"  I sighed as I slowly walked toward the end of the alley.  "Now, let's hope I can catch a ride with one of the officers.  Our apartment is on the other side of the city, I doubt a taxi will come this way at this hour, and I'm really not in the mood to walk that far.

"I am afraid there is no time for rest, Mr. Dedrick Spectre,"  spoke a mysterious voice.

Wait, I recognize that female, monotone voice.  Damn it all!  I was so close to getting a break from this crap for a while.

"What do you want, Oracle?"  I said I turned around to meet the elusive being.

The Oracle is a very enigmatic entity.  I say that primarily because it's impossible to tell what species the Oracle is considering it conceals its body beneath its thick clothing.  The body appears female and seems dresses as if it were from the Victorian Age; gloves, hat, boots and all.  Its dress was like that of the night sky, with stars and planets decorating the flowing piece.  A hat and veil concealed it's face from all angles, excluding the three glowing eyes, two white and one gold.  To top off the outfit were a set of tarot cards that were neatly tucked into the band of the elegant hat.

I would be a damnable liar if I said I didn't find the Oracle attractive, especially in a mysterious sort of way.  Unfortunately, I've come to absolutely loathe dealing with it as you will see.

"Why, whatever do you mean, Mr. Spectre?"  It asked with faux innocence.

"Enough with the false pleasantries, Oracle.  We have conversed enough times for me to know you only show yourself when it concerns one of you objectives."  A hint of venom leaking from my voice.

"Straight to the point as always I see.  Such a shame, I do enjoy our talks", feigning disappointment.  "Very well, I shall grant thee thy wish.  The task I have in mind is for you to retrieve a relic for me.  To be more specific, a pocket watch."

"A pocket watch?"  I inquired.  "I know you wouldn't bother trying to have me get a simple pocket watch.  Stop treating me like an ignorant buffoon and stop withholding information."

It's always such a pain in the bum dealing with this entity.  Really wish it would just be straightforward for once.  The manipulative arse.

"Perceptive as always, Mr. Spectre", it stated with mock excitement.

Don't patronize me.

"If it were that simple, I would have sent Mr. Janitor.  However, this watch is far from ordinary.  To be more specific, this watch has the power to travel through time."

"But time-travel is impossible in our universe because of the DEM incident a couple centuries back."  Quirking in eyebrow at the Oracle's sudden interest in this item.  "Such an item is useless unless you go to another universe.  To what purpose do you have with it? Or to be more specific, why should I be concerned with this and why are you interested in it?"

If that smug arse was grinning underneath that veil, it would probably resemble that of the Cheshire Cat.  What's strange is that the Oracle's non-existent smile seems to piss me off more than Captain Dervish's own cheeky grin.

"Why, what happens when all mortals get their hands on such power.  And I'm certain you are aware of what happens when a mortal has access to time-travel."

I could only grit my teeth at what I know is the truth.  You see, when someone travels through time, be it via magic or technology, they carry a great potential of destroying all versions of their universe with a time paradox or unraveling of the time-stream.  This is the case more often than not and the effects ripple back to Junction.  Anyone who was or had ancestors from the destroyed set of universes simply cease to exist.  You can imagine how bad that is when you find that your children, spouse, relatives and/or friends suddenly vanish from your life in less than a blink of an eye.

"And just where is the said object, and why me?"  I asked as I continued to grit my teeth.

"Oh, it is not a simple retrieval, mind you my dear detective, and I can answer both of your questions at once.  To put it simply, the Time Trials."

"Time Trials?  I'm assuming this is some type of event that involves the fourth dimension or some other time based universe/dimension?"

"Quite right.  Though, you will be participating in a tournament in this case."

A tournament?!  Are you joking?  I am one of the least suited for an inter-dimensional tournament!  Why not choose any of the other Junctionites who would be more competent in these combat tournaments?

"Quite the contrary, you are precisely the kind of person I need to participate in this tournament.  For you see, this is not like the many other tournaments that other dimensions host.  This one consists of finding and artifact in a specific time period that you and your opponent are set in.  It will require one of your knowledge and skill to succeed, young detective."

That no good, mind-reading cu-

"And just what do you get out of this, Oracle?  I know you don't do this kind of thing out of the goodness of your heart."

"Ah, now there is a question to be had.  Many other entities will be spectating this event."

"In other words, the gods or whatever are all bored and wish to see us mortals fight and struggle for their amusement."

Arrogant pricks.  This is why I despise immortals, especially those that call themselves 'gods'.  They treat us mortals like playthings and allow untold horrors to happen under their watch.  I mean, they can't even practice what they themselves preach, and require worship to get to paradise or spend an eternity in hell or something.  With power comes great responsibility, and they abuse it maliciously.  I may dislike the Oracle with a passion, but at least it holds no illusions of maintaining the balance of the universes.

Don't get me wrong, I know there are exceptions to the rule, but they are a minority.  Most of this minority are simply spirits or personifications of concepts such as life and death.  I cannot blame them for existing or what they do, but it is all too often that I have witnessed the abuse of power on my travels throughout the worlds.

"I am sure you will also be happy to know that one who is hosting this tournament is one who goes by the name, Father Time."

I couldn't tell if that comment was meant to anger me or provide some type of clue.  I'll opt for the later to be on the safe side.

"Wait, as in the personification of time?  If he is the Lord of Time, then won't he know who will win the tournament, just like you would?"

And there is the most intelligent question of the day!  Be sure to tune in next time for me to point out a fatal flaw in something on my adventures!  If you couldn't tell I was doing that mockingly as a parody, go shove a splintery stick up your bum.

"Ah, now there's the beauty of choosing you as a contestant.  You are a puppet with its strings cut, Mr. Spectre."  The mock excitement becoming apparent once again.

Oh right, that.

"What does that mean again, Oracle?"  My naïve assistant asked. As if she hasn't already asked this question a dozen times before.

"Very well, I shall put this in terms you may understand, Ms. Fiona."  I'm surprised the Oracle hasn't gotten bored of explaining the concept to her yet.  "Let us say time is like a clear cup of water.  Those with the ability to see into the future, such as myself, can view into the cup and see the past, present, and future.  Each droplet of water that enters the pool represents each person that is born or enters the timeline at some point.  The water that leaves the glass are those who leave the timeline or die, more or less.  Are you with me so far?"

Fiona vigorously nodded as she listened intently to the Oracle.  I'm surprised Fiona is able to follow all of this.  Hopefully it stays in her non-existent skull this time.

"Good.  Now let us say that a 'puppet that has cut its strings', like Mr. Spectre here,"  Gesturing to me to act as an example.  "Is like a droplet of black ink.  When we add the ink, the water becomes murky and difficult, if not impossible to see through.  You see, these 'ink droplets' make it impossible for people who foretell time to see what is to occur in the timeline.  It is this very reason why I have chosen Mr. Spectre to compete.  He will make things very interesting."

"I think I got it!"  My dear assistant exclaimed at her sudden revelation.  "You chose Ricky to join this tourney so that you and the other deities won't know who will win until the end!  Just like making sure a surprise party stays a surprise! That way, it'll be more fun and exciting to see who will actually win!"

Okay, I will admit I am honestly surprised Fiona was able to come to that conclusion.  That was quite an achievement for her and not to mention rather accurate.  It's good to see she's actually learning and coming to logical conclusions on her own.  Hopefully this spur of intelligence wasn't a momentary thing.

"Precisely, Ms. Fiona."  I could have sworn I saw the Oracle flinch, if only slightly, at being associated as a deity.  Strange, better keep note of that for later.  "Now, I believe it is time I allow the hosts of the Time Trails to extend their invitation to the both of you.  You may show yourselves now, Mr. Reaper and Mr. Dale."

As the Oracle finished speaking, what appeared to be a giant glowing, blue orb on a bronze pedestal burst out of one of the nearby boxes and almost gave me a heart attack.  There goes a good year off my life.  To put more stress on my heart, a cloaked figure with a tome and lantern eerily similar to mine suddenly appeared next to the Oracle.  If I had to guess by the two names the Oracle said, I would have to assume this is Mr. Reaper.  More than likely, this probably death personified.  Yeah, there goes another year.  I'm not sure I'll live past forty at this point.

"That was smashing!"  The orb identified as Dale said with an unusually stereotypical British accent.  I swear I've heard that voice somewhere, but I can't remember where.  "Your fight with that demonic ogre was positively brilliant!"  I don't think I've ever heard such a happy or excited talking orb.  It's also the first one I've seen that uses emoticons for expressing emotions.

"Um, thank you... Dale, was it?"  I'd offer a hand, but that would be stupid considering he's a talking orb.

"Spot on, boy."  I hate being called boy, and I just got Captain Dervish to stop calling me that, too.  "Reaper and I are here to welcome you to tournament!  He doesn't talk, just so you know."

"He's the silent, brooding type, huh?  I figured that at least one of the hosts would fit that stereotype."  I instantly felt like I was going to regret saying that the moment I finished that sentence.

"You're one to talk you Kyon wannabe", a mysterious voice rang out in my head.

Why the hell does everyone compare me to that character?!

"Because you're just like him."

Who the-  Oh, so that's what Dale meant when he said, 'He doesn't talk.'

"It took you that long, Captain Obvious?"

Get out of my head!

If looks could kill, I'm not sure it would really work on an entity of death.  Still, the point comes across.  I shall find a way to smite you, Reaper.

"Yeah, good luck with that."

I thought get out!

It wasn't until now that I noticed that Reaper wasn't actually a cloaked figure.  He literally was a cloak and a mask with a lantern attached to the cloak.  Well, that's a new one.  Still, he has a nice lantern though.

"Why thank you."

Dammit all!  Get the hell out of my head already!

"Fine."

"Can we just go now?  I'd like to just get this over with already."  Irritated is a tad too mild to describe how I feel right now.

"Very well."  The Oracle calmly said as it pulled one of the cards from its hat.  "Let us proceed then."  The card suddenly began to glow in the Oracle's hand just as it threw it. "The World."  As those two words were spoken, a gapping portal opened in front of us.

What I could see on the other side was both both fascinating and beautiful all at once.  Clocks and dials, events of past and future, all played out in the dimension beyond.  Alas, such a wonderful moment was spoiled by the two carefree members of the group.

"Let's go, Ricky!"  Fiona shouted with excitement.  "I wanna see Father Time!"

"Oh he's a smashing fellow!  You'll get quite a laugh out of him and if you like him, you simply must meet Lina!"  Dale said with glee.

"What are we waiting for?  Let's go!" she exclaimed as she and Dale flew through the portal.

The three of us that were left silently stayed in placed for a few moments the hyperactive duo flew off, enjoying what little peace we would be getting.

"Let us go you two", the Oracle said in its monotone voice.  "Time waits for no one, after all."

I swear these puns are gonna be the death of me.

"You and me both, Kyon."

Stay the hell out of my head, damn you!

Description
Time Trials: Audition

Way to Get Manipulated, Moron

Fate tends to be rather cruel dealer when it comes to life.  It deals a good hand to the fortunate and one of misfortune to the hapless who receive them.  Especially me, considering how often I get such a horrid hand dealt to me.

I digress, I doubt any of you came to listen, or read in this case, to me ramble on about my life.  As such, I'll simply give a background summary about my world and myself before I delve into the real story.

I come from the world of Junction, often referred to as the "World Between Worlds".  Strange title, but a true one nonetheless.  The title stems from the fact that my universe literally connects the different alternate dimensions together, hence the name "Junction".  Most are never even aware that they pass through it as they travel through the multiverse.

Now considering that my world is at the center of all things, so to speak, it is the very source of my hapless luck.  Being one of the best detectives of Junction, I am responsible for cases that involve those that travel through and to my homeworld, which also includes the supernatural and impossible.  I loathe my position with a passion.

Unfortunately, my minor scrying ability and wit has cemented me in a position of solving many of the unsolvable cases involving the many species, wonders, and horrors that cross into my world.  Homicide, disappearances, and conspiracies consist of most of my cases.

Speaking of cases, I happen to be in the middle of my current one as I narrate to you.

"Oh dear, Fortuna, how do I manage to get myself into these situations?!"

In case you hadn't figured it out, I happen to be running for my life at the moment.  To be more specific, I happen to be running in an alley of warehouses from an oni that happens to be roughly twice my height and carrying a giant wooden club that it's going to use to smash me with.  Not a comfortable position I'm in, mind you.

"Where is Fiona?  She should be back with help by now!"

"Get back, Squishy!"  Shouted the hulking giant as it continued to gain ground on me.  You'd think something that big would be slow, but that is a horrible, horrible misconception.

How I wish I had my lantern with me right now.  I would at the very least be able to defend myself.  Really wishing I hadn't dropped it when this guy ambushed me.

"Fiona!  If you're going to help, do it now!"  I shouted at the top of my lungs.

"I smash you now!"  the behemoth roared as it raised its enormous club.

You know how they say you see your life flash before your eyes before you die?  Please tell anyone who says that to piss off.

Thankfully, today wasn't my final day on Junction as the sound of heavy machinery and  something made of wood falling onto the oni's head stopped him from turning me into a red pancake.

"Sorry I'm late, Ricky.  Are you alright?"  came an energetic and feminine voice.

My head turned to meet the one of my spectral assistant, Fiona, floating over the downed oni with several pieces of what was formally a box scattered around them.

"No better, worse for wear."  I replied as I walked over to properly apprehend my would-be murderer.  "You're timing could use some work though, Fiona.  That was bloody damn near too close for comfort."

"Sorry 'bout that, Ricky."  I'm fairly certain she was blushing with embarrassment, but it's always hard to tell with the undead.  Oh great, now she's giving me that sorrowful, apologetic look.  Bloody hell, I hate it when she gives me that look.  "But it took me a while for me to get the crane working."

"Well, at least you managed to get it working without having a clue as to how it works", I said as I cuffed the oni with my set of handcuffs.  "Saved my scrawny arse there.  So, I have to give you my thanks, Fiona.  You kept me from knocking on Death's door right there."

I'm so weak.

Fiona's face lit up much like my lantern in the black of night at hearing my thanks, as pitiful as it was.  Speaking of lanterns...

"Fiona, you wouldn't happen to know where my lantern is, would you?

She thought for a moment, pressing a finger to her lip as I watched the gears her head turned.  After watching her for several moments, a light bulb seemed to go off in her head as her face lit up with a smile and disappeared.  She returned a moment later from one of the nearby warehouses with my lantern in her ghostly hands.

"Here it is, Ricky!"  her joyous voice echoing in the alley as she brought my unlit lantern to me.

You must be wondering why I seem to care about lantern, am I correct?  Well, my personal lantern has the ability to ward off ectoplasmic beings and the like.  For those of you who are ignorant of the supernatural, I was referring to ghosts, ghouls, and other spooky creatures.  Still haven't a clue as to why Fiona isn't affected by it.

"Thank you, Fiona,"  taking my lantern from her.  "Ignis."  The lantern instantaneously lit itself at my command.

"So what now, Ricky?"  My ectoplasmic assistant asked me.

I suddenly felt the urge to say, 'The same thing we do every night.  Try and take over the world!'

"We wait for the police to arrive.  Captain Dervish should be here with some help soon."  I said as I sat myself down on a nearby wooden box.  Running for one's life takes a surprising amount of energy.

The wail of sirens screaming interrupts any further thoughts.  They always seem to arrive after everything is over.  I swear there's a conspiracy of something.

"And speak of the devil, here they come."

The screech of tires and shouting could be heard nearby as the officers quickly deployed.  I could hear the patter of their footsteps on the concrete ground as they raided the nearby warehouses.  Now all I need to do is alert them of my location so I can get out of her and get this carnivorous oni behind bars.

It was at that point that I noticed that Fiona had disappeared.  She must have gone to fetch the Captain.  I swear that girl can read my mind sometimes.

"Good job, Detective Spectre", came a proud and burly voice from the opening of the alley.  "Not only did you find the kidnapper, but you managed to apprehend the off-worlder before he could consume any of his victims.  I'll just take this criminal off your hands and you can head off afterwards.  Job well done I must say," extending his hand to shake in congratulations.

This is Captain Dervish, a very proud and probably one of the best officers on Junction.  He's a towering Draco, a human-like dragon, with dark green scales and typically wears warm clothing in addition to the heavy black trench coat he normally wears.  He's a cop on the straight and narrow, refusing to tolerate any who break the law.  As much of a hardass as he is, I begrudgingly respect the man.  Emphasis on the begrudging.

I found it a tad difficult getting up and standing at that moment, likely due to the adrenaline wearing off from my near death experience.  I wearily shook his scaly hand and felt as if my wrist may have fractured.  Why the bloody hell are reptiles so strong?

"Thank you, Captain.  I would have appreciated you arriving a bit sooner though.  Almost became this bloke's dinner."  I gestured to the oni that tried to kill me just minutes earlier.

"Then work on your writing your reports then, detective.  Hardly anyone can read the chicken scratch that is your handwriting", he gruffly retorted with a knowing look that he had won the short-lived argument.

I don't think I've ever wanted to wipe that smug grin off his scaly face more than now.

"Alright then, Detective Spectre, I'll just take this criminal off your hands and you can be off", he said as he lugged the hulking oni over his shoulder as if it weighed nothing.  Just before he left the alley, the arse had to add one last smug comment,  "Oh, and be sure to have your paperwork done by tomorrow.  I don't want to have to wait a month just for you to fill out a simple report again, Spectre."

I really hate that guy.

"We did it, Ricky!"  My ever optimistic assistant exclaimed with joy as she suddenly appeared in front of me and hugged me.  I gotta say, being hugged by an ectoplasmic entity is a rather strange sensation.  "We saved everyone and stopped the bad guy!"

As annoying as her childish antics can be, I can't really get mad at her.  Her being an amnesiac tends to suppress any sarcastic or cynical remark I could make about her.  I suppose that's my conscience preventing me from doing so.  I wonder why it doesn't seem to apply to anyone else?

"Yes we did,"  I sighed as I slowly walked toward the end of the alley.  "Now, let's hope I can catch a ride with one of the officers.  Our apartment is on the other side of the city, I doubt a taxi will come this way at this hour, and I'm really not in the mood to walk that far.

"I am afraid there is no time for rest, Mr. Dedrick Spectre,"  spoke a mysterious voice.

Wait, I recognize that female, monotone voice.  Damn it all!  I was so close to getting a break from this crap for a while.

"What do you want, Oracle?"  I said I turned around to meet the elusive being.

The Oracle is a very enigmatic entity.  I say that primarily because it's impossible to tell what species the Oracle is considering it conceals its body beneath its thick clothing.  The body appears female and seems dresses as if it were from the Victorian Age; gloves, hat, boots and all.  Its dress was like that of the night sky, with stars and planets decorating the flowing piece.  A hat and veil concealed it's face from all angles, excluding the three glowing eyes, two white and one gold.  To top off the outfit were a set of tarot cards that were neatly tucked into the band of the elegant hat.

I would be a damnable liar if I said I didn't find the Oracle attractive, especially in a mysterious sort of way.  Unfortunately, I've come to absolutely loathe dealing with it as you will see.

"Why, whatever do you mean, Mr. Spectre?"  It asked with faux innocence.

"Enough with the false pleasantries, Oracle.  We have conversed enough times for me to know you only show yourself when it concerns one of you objectives."  A hint of venom leaking from my voice.

"Straight to the point as always I see.  Such a shame, I do enjoy our talks", feigning disappointment.  "Very well, I shall grant thee thy wish.  The task I have in mind is for you to retrieve a relic for me.  To be more specific, a pocket watch."

"A pocket watch?"  I inquired.  "I know you wouldn't bother trying to have me get a simple pocket watch.  Stop treating me like an ignorant buffoon and stop withholding information."

It's always such a pain in the bum dealing with this entity.  Really wish it would just be straightforward for once.  The manipulative arse.

"Perceptive as always, Mr. Spectre", it stated with mock excitement.

Don't patronize me.

"If it were that simple, I would have sent Mr. Janitor.  However, this watch is far from ordinary.  To be more specific, this watch has the power to travel through time."

"But time-travel is impossible in our universe because of the DEM incident a couple centuries back."  Quirking in eyebrow at the Oracle's sudden interest in this item.  "Such an item is useless unless you go to another universe.  To what purpose do you have with it? Or to be more specific, why should I be concerned with this and why are you interested in it?"

If that smug arse was grinning underneath that veil, it would probably resemble that of the Cheshire Cat.  What's strange is that the Oracle's non-existent smile seems to piss me off more than Captain Dervish's own cheeky grin.

"Why, what happens when all mortals get their hands on such power.  And I'm certain you are aware of what happens when a mortal has access to time-travel."

I could only grit my teeth at what I know is the truth.  You see, when someone travels through time, be it via magic or technology, they carry a great potential of destroying all versions of their universe with a time paradox or unraveling of the time-stream.  This is the case more often than not and the effects ripple back to Junction.  Anyone who was or had ancestors from the destroyed set of universes simply cease to exist.  You can imagine how bad that is when you find that your children, spouse, relatives and/or friends suddenly vanish from your life in less than a blink of an eye.

"And just where is the said object, and why me?"  I asked as I continued to grit my teeth.

"Oh, it is not a simple retrieval, mind you my dear detective, and I can answer both of your questions at once.  To put it simply, the Time Trials."

"Time Trials?  I'm assuming this is some type of event that involves the fourth dimension or some other time based universe/dimension?"

"Quite right.  Though, you will be participating in a tournament in this case."

A tournament?!  Are you joking?  I am one of the least suited for an inter-dimensional tournament!  Why not choose any of the other Junctionites who would be more competent in these combat tournaments?

"Quite the contrary, you are precisely the kind of person I need to participate in this tournament.  For you see, this is not like the many other tournaments that other dimensions host.  This one consists of finding and artifact in a specific time period that you and your opponent are set in.  It will require one of your knowledge and skill to succeed, young detective."

That no good, mind-reading cu-

"And just what do you get out of this, Oracle?  I know you don't do this kind of thing out of the goodness of your heart."

"Ah, now there is a question to be had.  Many other entities will be spectating this event."

"In other words, the gods or whatever are all bored and wish to see us mortals fight and struggle for their amusement."

Arrogant pricks.  This is why I despise immortals, especially those that call themselves 'gods'.  They treat us mortals like playthings and allow untold horrors to happen under their watch.  I mean, they can't even practice what they themselves preach, and require worship to get to paradise or spend an eternity in hell or something.  With power comes great responsibility, and they abuse it maliciously.  I may dislike the Oracle with a passion, but at least it holds no illusions of maintaining the balance of the universes.

Don't get me wrong, I know there are exceptions to the rule, but they are a minority.  Most of this minority are simply spirits or personifications of concepts such as life and death.  I cannot blame them for existing or what they do, but it is all too often that I have witnessed the abuse of power on my travels throughout the worlds.

"I am sure you will also be happy to know that one who is hosting this tournament is one who goes by the name, Father Time."

I couldn't tell if that comment was meant to anger me or provide some type of clue.  I'll opt for the later to be on the safe side.

"Wait, as in the personification of time?  If he is the Lord of Time, then won't he know who will win the tournament, just like you would?"

And there is the most intelligent question of the day!  Be sure to tune in next time for me to point out a fatal flaw in something on my adventures!  If you couldn't tell I was doing that mockingly as a parody, go shove a splintery stick up your bum.

"Ah, now there's the beauty of choosing you as a contestant.  You are a puppet with its strings cut, Mr. Spectre."  The mock excitement becoming apparent once again.

Oh right, that.

"What does that mean again, Oracle?"  My naïve assistant asked. As if she hasn't already asked this question a dozen times before.

"Very well, I shall put this in terms you may understand, Ms. Fiona."  I'm surprised the Oracle hasn't gotten bored of explaining the concept to her yet.  "Let us say time is like a clear cup of water.  Those with the ability to see into the future, such as myself, can view into the cup and see the past, present, and future.  Each droplet of water that enters the pool represents each person that is born or enters the timeline at some point.  The water that leaves the glass are those who leave the timeline or die, more or less.  Are you with me so far?"

Fiona vigorously nodded as she listened intently to the Oracle.  I'm surprised Fiona is able to follow all of this.  Hopefully it stays in her non-existent skull this time.

"Good.  Now let us say that a 'puppet that has cut its strings', like Mr. Spectre here,"  Gesturing to me to act as an example.  "Is like a droplet of black ink.  When we add the ink, the water becomes murky and difficult, if not impossible to see through.  You see, these 'ink droplets' make it impossible for people who foretell time to see what is to occur in the timeline.  It is this very reason why I have chosen Mr. Spectre to compete.  He will make things very interesting."

"I think I got it!"  My dear assistant exclaimed at her sudden revelation.  "You chose Ricky to join this tourney so that you and the other deities won't know who will win until the end!  Just like making sure a surprise party stays a surprise! That way, it'll be more fun and exciting to see who will actually win!"

Okay, I will admit I am honestly surprised Fiona was able to come to that conclusion.  That was quite an achievement for her and not to mention rather accurate.  It's good to see she's actually learning and coming to logical conclusions on her own.  Hopefully this spur of intelligence wasn't a momentary thing.

"Precisely, Ms. Fiona."  I could have sworn I saw the Oracle flinch, if only slightly, at being associated as a deity.  Strange, better keep note of that for later.  "Now, I believe it is time I allow the hosts of the Time Trails to extend their invitation to the both of you.  You may show yourselves now, Mr. Reaper and Mr. Dale."

As the Oracle finished speaking, what appeared to be a giant glowing, blue orb on a bronze pedestal burst out of one of the nearby boxes and almost gave me a heart attack.  There goes a good year off my life.  To put more stress on my heart, a cloaked figure with a tome and lantern eerily similar to mine suddenly appeared next to the Oracle.  If I had to guess by the two names the Oracle said, I would have to assume this is Mr. Reaper.  More than likely, this probably death personified.  Yeah, there goes another year.  I'm not sure I'll live past forty at this point.

"That was smashing!"  The orb identified as Dale said with an unusually stereotypical British accent.  I swear I've heard that voice somewhere, but I can't remember where.  "Your fight with that demonic ogre was positively brilliant!"  I don't think I've ever heard such a happy or excited talking orb.  It's also the first one I've seen that uses emoticons for expressing emotions.

"Um, thank you... Dale, was it?"  I'd offer a hand, but that would be stupid considering he's a talking orb.

"Spot on, boy."  I hate being called boy, and I just got Captain Dervish to stop calling me that, too.  "Reaper and I are here to welcome you to tournament!  He doesn't talk, just so you know."

"He's the silent, brooding type, huh?  I figured that at least one of the hosts would fit that stereotype."  I instantly felt like I was going to regret saying that the moment I finished that sentence.

"You're one to talk you Kyon wannabe", a mysterious voice rang out in my head.

Why the hell does everyone compare me to that character?!

"Because you're just like him."

Who the-  Oh, so that's what Dale meant when he said, 'He doesn't talk.'

"It took you that long, Captain Obvious?"

Get out of my head!

If looks could kill, I'm not sure it would really work on an entity of death.  Still, the point comes across.  I shall find a way to smite you, Reaper.

"Yeah, good luck with that."

I thought get out!

It wasn't until now that I noticed that Reaper wasn't actually a cloaked figure.  He literally was a cloak and a mask with a lantern attached to the cloak.  Well, that's a new one.  Still, he has a nice lantern though.

"Why thank you."

Dammit all!  Get the hell out of my head already!

"Fine."

"Can we just go now?  I'd like to just get this over with already."  Irritated is a tad too mild to describe how I feel right now.

"Very well."  The Oracle calmly said as it pulled one of the cards from its hat.  "Let us proceed then."  The card suddenly began to glow in the Oracle's hand just as it threw it. "The World."  As those two words were spoken, a gapping portal opened in front of us.

What I could see on the other side was both both fascinating and beautiful all at once.  Clocks and dials, events of past and future, all played out in the dimension beyond.  Alas, such a wonderful moment was spoiled by the two carefree members of the group.

"Let's go, Ricky!"  Fiona shouted with excitement.  "I wanna see Father Time!"

"Oh he's a smashing fellow!  You'll get quite a laugh out of him and if you like him, you simply must meet Lina!"  Dale said with glee.

"What are we waiting for?  Let's go!" she exclaimed as she and Dale flew through the portal.

The three of us that were left silently stayed in placed for a few moments the hyperactive duo flew off, enjoying what little peace we would be getting.

"Let us go you two", the Oracle said in its monotone voice.  "Time waits for no one, after all."

I swear these puns are gonna be the death of me.

"You and me both, Kyon."

Stay the hell out of my head, damn you!