While they were working out the details of the move of the mine with the owner, Jake continued pressing Ming for more information. There were so many questions: Why was Ming back in the 21st century? How was he related to the $50,000 for the interview? Was the interview actually going to happen? Was Ming involved in whatever had gotten him fired? He still refused to answer any of Jake’s important questions.
Ming had been very forceful in insisting that the pair go hiking every day while they were waiting for the mine to be moved. One morning Jake decided that he was satisfied that the tribe was safe, he told Ming that he wanted to go home and see his parents and try to find another job. This was not what Ming had in mind:
“Jake, I’m very proud of the way you’ve handled this. You’ve saved those people. The Aye assumed you would be very capable but you have surpassed my expectations. The Aye has relayed instructions to me that you can see Riojme now. Your parents will be taken care of so don’t worry about them.”
Riojme was Jake’s priority and he was thrilled. Ming pulled out his silvery orb from of his jacket pocket and didn’t bother with the stickers. He spoke a few words in Lajbon and a bright purple flash claimed their vision.
