Forbidden Quest Read Online Free Page A

My mother died when I was very young. I'm afraid I was a disruptive child.  I grew up in Maine, in a series of foster homes.  Most were great; they took decent care of me , a few weren't . Finally I landed at the Tyler's home and they decided to adopt me . They were old enough to be my grandparents, but I had a good home and lots of love. I graduated from high school, went to a trade school and here I am." Jack suddenly wanted to get the meeting over with quickly.
                  "I see. You may well be the only person I've ever met that's capable of describing their entire life in less than sixty seconds." Dr. Strong said, quietly. "Are you satisfied with your life, Mr. Tyler?"
                  "Satisfied?" Jack stared back, hesitating. "I enjoy what I'm doing. I get to travel all over the world for practically nothing. I've seen and done more than any of my hard working, high paid corporate type friends . Being a travel agent pays terrible, but it's not a bad job."
                  "How old were you when you arrived at the Tyler's home?"
                  "Twelve." He answered, shifting uneasily in his chair. " You making a point?"
                  "What did twelve year old Jack want to be when he grew up?" Dr. Strong asked, unaffected by Jack's growing annoyance.
                  "Most of my friends wanted to be an outer space hero. I wanted to be a fireman . Because that's what my new dad was.  He was the only real hero I'd ever known." Jack answered, "But I daydreamed a lot about fighting my way through the galaxy."
                  "Dreams of adventure with a practical attitude."   Dr. Strong said quietly staring at Jack.
                  "Well now you've condensed my life into one simple sentence." Jack answered, bluntly. "I'm not sure I like that."
                  "I meant no offense. You seem to have your priorities in order.  The realization that life is an upward climb doesn't appear to cause you any distress . It's enough for me to discern that you'll do fine with the barbarian identity " Dr . Strong declared, rising from his seat.   “Tell me, how did you meet your friends? “
                  “Todd Hopper and I grew up together.  He has a large family, mostly brothers and his parents understood my foster parents were older and weren’t very active.  They let me hang out with them.  Hopper’s parents included me in there family outings.  They allowed be to feel like part of their family.  The Tylers loved me and cared for me, the the Hopper’s taught me what a real family was like.”  Jack paused for a moment then continued.  “As for Sarah, she met Hopper in college a few years ago, they were best of friends forever then recently started dating.   She’s a very intelligent, sweet kid.  She’s perfect for Hopper.  As for Nicole, she’s my friend Tom’s girl.  Tom grew up on the other side of town, where the kids all had their own brand new car at age 16 and went to Europe or Hawaii on spring break.  He’s a corporate attorney headed for greatness.  Nicole’s as full of ambition as Tom is, they make the perfect political c andidate couple. ”  
    ” Thank you, I'll leave you to your studies, Mr. Tyler . It is essential you comprehend the material Shala has given you , If you want to enjoy your adventure."  Extending his hand, the doctor smiled blandly. "Good night Mr. Tyler."
                  Jack rose and shook the doctor's hand. He was pleased that the interview was at
    an end . "I've got to admit, you've peaked my interest. This place is full of character. That Olympic stadium you've got in the next room shows a lot of promise."
                  "It's all part of the adventure. I'm merely setting the mood . It will make the transition much easier for all of you." Dr. Strong's eyes grew dark as he glanced past Jack toward the office