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1
There came a time of the great divisions of tribes. Many among the
tribes were separated from families. Many simple lost and on
their own. They found themselves in seclusion. One such
person was Endora, she was a young elf. She had lost bothparents in the war and found herself in a forest alone. She had
to learn to survive on her own.
One day while hunting, she happened upon a great dragon. There
were men gathered around her. The dragon was fighting for
her life. Endora knew from past dealings that these men would
do her harm as well. She quickly and quietly found a place to
hide. She watched as the dragon fought valiantly. She
watched as several of the men fell. She watched as the dragon
lost her fight. She kept watching as the removed her as trophy
and place their fallen comrades upon their horses. She
watched as they rode away.
Endora slowly moved out of the shadows. She moved slowly and
cautiously towards the dragon. She touched the great beast
and blessed it. She looked around and noticed a cave. She
thought to herself, That is what she trying to protect. Endora
stood up and moved to the cave. She paused a moment to
allow her eyes to adjust to the dim light. She moved slowly and
cautiously through the cave. She found herself having to step
over the bones and remains of the dragons recently kills. Thesmell of the cave grew worse as she moved slowly and
cautiously through the cave. She came to a large opening. It
was a large ravine and below was a river of lava. There was a
rock bridge which seemed to spam the opening.
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Endora approached the bridge and crossed it. She now
found herself in another antechamber. She spotted a
nest and approached it. Inside was one egg. She
knew the men would come back. If for nothing else,
but to gloat over their kill. She searched the
antechamber and found another way out. She saw it
went into the woods. This seemed to be the best way
out of the cave. She went back to the nest and she
removed the egg from the nest.
Once outside Endora made her way slowly back to where
the dragon had perished. She laid the egg in a safe
location, hidden from view. She made her way back
over to the dragon. She removed one of her scales.
Endora hoped that this would be enough for the little
dragon. It was not much, but it would be the best that
could be done.
Endora went and gathered the dragons egg and
disappeared into the woods. She vowed she would
keep the little dragon safe.
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2
Randw came from a long line of warriors. His father hadtaught him the warriors code. He was still young, but
he could still kill a full grown wild boar. He was out
following the tracks of a wild boar. He came up to aclearing. He saw a group of men fighting with a dragon.
He knew the nature of these men and he choose not toengage them. He found a spot to hide and watch. Hewaited till the magnificent dragon had lost her fight. Hewatched as the men beheaded her and loaded it and
loaded it and the fallen men onto their horses. Hewaited until they had ridden out of sight.
He was going to go and say a blessing upon themagnificent beast. When she appeared out of the
woods, she was absolutely gorgeous. He though hewas the last of the elves. She moved with such graceand beauty. He watched her as she knelt next to the
animals. He watched as she said the blessing over thebeast. He was frozen in place. Randw knew if he
moved he could frighten her.
He watched her disappear into the cave. Randw wantedso much to follow her. He wanted to protect her. Hedecided the best thing to do was to wait to make sure
those men did not return. He waited for what seemedan eternity. Suddenly she emerged from the woods notthe cave. He watched as she went up to dragon and
remove one of her scales. He watched as shedisappeared back in to woods.
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Randw was going to follow her, but the men had
returned. He knew he would not be able to follow her
till they had left. He had bide his time until they left.
He had watch as they cannibalized the poor dragon.
Finally, They moved on.
Randw went to the spot where he had seen the other elf.
He tried to follow her tracks. But, the forest seemed to
swallow any sign of her. He promised to himself, I will
find her again one day.
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3
Endora spent her days moving around the forest. Searching
for food and herbs. She was always vigilant and careful.
She always made sure no one followed her.Endora spent the rest of her time tending to the dragons egg.
She knew this one would start his or her life off with no
mom to for him or her. Endora did not even know where
the father was. She just knew she had to protect it.
Endora was out gathering berries in the woods one day, and
she heard a noise which startled her. She found a safe
hiding hole and crawled into it. She peeked out and saw
him. It was another elf. He appeared to be of the warrior
clan. She could tell he was still very young.
She was afraid to move from her spot. He after all appeared
to not be of her clan. Her father had always said it was
improper to even be seen with a member of this elf clan.
Randw sensed rather than saw her. He stopped where he
was. He looked around the woods. He knew he was
close. He began using all of his finely honed hunter skills
and instincts. He knew she was close, but he still could
not find her.
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I know that the pace is real. I see it through the mists o mydreams. I feel it deep inside. It was my fathers last wish.
Endora said.
Well, perhaps he might be able to you with that. Silvermistsaid.
I would never do that! exclaimed Endora. Besides, I do notknow him at all.
Will, I think I can maybe help. Silvermist said. I could go tothe meeting place for you. I could bring back whatever it
is.
Well, he would not be expecting a fairy. That might workindeed. Endora said.
Endora told Silvermist where the meeting place was.Silvermist made it to the meeting place before he did.
She found a tree to hide and she waited.
Randw emerged from the trees. He was carrying a box ofsorts. Ok, I do not know if you are here or not. But, this
box was given to me by my father upon his death. He told
me I needed to give it one of the elf kings. I know notwhere they even are. As I said the other day, I did not
even know there where more or even one
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more elf still alive. I will leave this here for you. I will returntomorrow and the next day. If after you look at this,
please leave me something letting me know one way orthe other. He walked aver and place it slightly under a
bush and disappeared into the woods.
When Silvermist was sure he was really gone, she wentover to the box and picked it up. The box was heavierthat she though. She had to struggle with it all the wayhome. She place the box next to Endora. She told her
everything that he had said.
She opened the box and she found a scroll. She read thescroll Then she reread the scroll. She was frozen in
time. She could not believe what it said.
Silvermist looked at Endora and said, What is it? What
does it say? Endora was unmoved. Silvermist flewaround the scroll and read it for herself. Oh my, this isa marriage contract. It appears to be signed by your
father. Well, if this is true that his name is Randw andthat would be his fathers signature.
Endora nodded her head. She had always known her
father had made an arranged marriage for her to unitetwo of the tribes. Could this really be the one. She
rolled the scroll back up and place it in the box.
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5
Endora woke the next morning early. She sat down and wroteanother scroll. She found a small box and placed it in
there. Then she and Silvermist went back to where he had
left the box.
The two of them together started off in search of food andherbs. They would have to replenish both today. The
managed to find lots of fresh fruit and herbs.
They took their bounty back to their home and began theprocess of drying the herb and preparing the fruits for
proper storage. Then they began their daily cleaning andlaundry. While they worked they talked and laughed.
They were quite enjoying themselves.
Meanwhile, Randw emerged from the forest. He looked
around to se if there was any sign of the other elf. Hespotted the box that he had left there yesterday. He wentover to it and picked up the box and placed it back into hispouch. He was about to leave when he spotted another
box. He picked this box up and began walking back to hisplace.
Once home he walked inside and sat down at the table. Iwonder if too must live this way. I wish I had someone,
anyone to talk to. I am tired of talking to myself.
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He placed both boxesupon the table. He checked his box first and found everything to be alright. He placed it back into hispouch. He then opened the other box. Inside wa s a scroll. He took it outand read it.
13
If your name is really Randw, andif your father was indeed the king
of Evermet and his name wasAubry, then you maybe the one Ihave been searching for.
However; I choose not to reveal tomuch to you. A I still do not fully
trust you. Enclosed are somesimple symbols and couple of hardones. Bring me on the morrow the
translation of these and maybethen. I would be willing to trust
you a little more.
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Wow, she has the writing of royalty. Her pen is quitegood. SO, I now must study these symbols and giver
her a translation.
He worked on them for a little while. He found five of themto be very easy. One a littler harder. The last one he
was having some difficulty with. He had seen thissymbol before. But, where. Try as he might. He
could not bring into his minds eye. He would work on itin the morning once he was fully rested.
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6
Randw woke the next morning. He looked at the lastsymbol. I know this symbol. Where have I seen it.
He turned and began ransacking his and his fathersmerger possession. He pulled everything out of everyhiding hole. He found nothing. Finally in the very last
spot in on old trunk he found his fathers maps. Ah ha.he exclaimed. Here it is. Now lets see what does it
mean. He scratched his head. Then it hit him he knewwhat it was. Now I have to find a blank scroll.
He stood and looked around there was not any place thatdid not have something on it around or covering it.
Ugh, now this is going to be real fun. I now have a hugmess to clean up. He spotted a scroll sitting on top of
the mess. He penned upon it the answer to her test. Heplaced it back into the box. He placed the box into his
pack.
He went back to the same spot where they had met. Heplace it under the same bush. I sincerely hop that I
have this test. I am getting kind of tired of all the longwalks. If I have too, I suppose I could find a location
closer if I have too. Randw said.
He turned and walked back down the way he came.
Silvermist snuck out of her hiding hole and flew backhome. She set the box on the table. You know
Endora. The only real way to find out for sure is toactual talk to hi.
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I know. I know, but what if he is only pretending. This isthe only way I know that I can sort of test him. Endora
said.
Silvermist shrugged her shoulders and sat down on the
table. Well, are you going to open it or not.Of course I am just give me a minute. Endora said.
Endora pulled the box close to her and slowly opened it.Inside was a scroll. She fiddles with the box and thescroll a few minutes. That what if he does not know
the symbols. I mean I sort gave him some I did notknow. Some of course I know by heart.
Oh, you silly girl. So you are telling me you gave him atest that you herself may not even know the answer to.
Well now this is going to be interesting. chuckledSilvermist.
Oh, you silly fairy. Sometimes you are really of no help atall. Endora said.
Endora carefully unrolled the scroll and laid it upon thetable. She squinted mightily at the scroll. She twisted
and turned it.
Now what is the problem. Silvermist said.
Oh, it is nothing that I can hopefully figure out. Endora
said.
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17
Ok, so you wish to test me. So, heregoes I feel as if I am back in school.
But, I will of course do your test.
1st symbol = mountains
2nd symbol =stream
3rd symbol = gorge
4th symbol = bridge
5th Symbol = tree
6th symbol = cave
7th symbol = a compass point
There I hope I have passed with flyingcolors. I really hope our next meeting
can be face to face.
Randw
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Man his writing could us some serious improvement. Ok,
now to verify this symbols. Endora said.
Endora walked over to her fathers maps and gently unrolled
them on the top of the table. She matched all seven of
the symbols to ones that where on her map.
Wow, he even named two symbols I would not have figure
out. Endora said.
See maybe he is suppose to be the one. Silvermist said.
I am still not sure. Endora said.
Fine you come with me tomorrow and I prove it to you.
Silvermist said and with that she stood and fly to her bed.
Endora sat there a moment and pondered upon everything.
Her eyes were getting heavy. She got up and wondered
over to bed.
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7
The next morning Silvermist was in a flurry of excitement. She
buzzed and zipped all around the cottage. Endora could
barely motivate herself. Her feet felt like they weighed tentons. Her heart was pounding in her throat. Even the
breakfast Silvermist had fixed had any flavor.
Relax, sweetie. It will be alright. Silvermist said.
Endora just shrugged her head. Silvermist had to practically
drag her down to the meeting spot. Endora found a hiding
hole. Silvermist just shrugged her shoulders.
She spotted him before Endora did. She rushed out and flew
straight at the elf. Randw grabbed for his sword for he had
no idea as too what kind of or manner this thing was.
Relax, silly boy. said Silvermist. I am Silvermist and I am a
fairy. I have served Endora since she was a child.
Would that be Endora of Sidyuir? asked Randw.
The one and only. said Silvermist.
That is the name of my intended. Our fathers arranged the
marriage when we came of age. It was to unite our two
tribes together. Then the war came. My entire tribe was
destroyed. My father heard of a place where all the elves
were meeting. A place of safety. Alas, my
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my father will never see this place. He was run through. I
found a place to hide. I go back sometimes and collect
things. But, I try not to go back too often. It is a very sad
place. That is why I wish so much to, well just talk to
someone, anyone. There has been no one for a longwhile. Randw said.
That is perfectly understandable. Everyone needs at least
that. Now if I can simply talk Endora out of her hiding
hole. Silvermist said. She pointed toward Endoras
hiding hole.
Endora was trying to hold the rush of tears. She did not
notice when Randw knelt down beside the bush and
parted it. You must be Endora. My name is Randw/ I
do not mind talking to you from out here while you hide in
there. But, its such a nice day it would be better to come
on out.
Endora was startled by his voice. Close up he was even more
handsome. Endora seemed to momentarily lose her
voice. She took his hand he had proffered her. He helped
her out of the bush. She now stood there and they stood
eye to eye. I am Endora nice to meet you. her voice
seemed strange to her.
The rest of the afternoon the spent it chatting and dining onthe food Silvermist had prepared for them. Then the hour
came for them to part. Randw disappeared into the
woods. When he arrived at his home, he was
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greeted to a huge mess. Randw you really have to learn to
organize things better. Just a wee bit of organization and
maybe you would not have made such a mess. Now it will
take you hours to clean this mess up. He shook his head and
began cleaning.
Meanwhile, Endora and Silvermist returned home. The whole trip
home she had been unusually quiet. It was very unusual for
her. Once they arrived at home Endora let Silvermist know in
no uncertain terms that she was not in anyway shape or form
was she happy with Silvermist about what she had done. This
went on for a good thirty minutes. Then Endora stormed off toher bed and collapsed upon it. She cried and cried as if her
heart was being ripped out of her chest.
Silvermist came in and said, Im sorry. I was just trying to help.
Im am just an old fairy and you are still young. I know how
much you miss being with those of your own kind.
I know. If it is true and we are truly the last of our kind. It is our
obligation to rebuild the tribe. But, how can we possible get
married without a Shaman? Endora said.
Well maybe you should consider asking him to join you in your
search of the place your father was looking for? Silver mist
said.
Endora crawled into a ball and tried to sleep.
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8
Endora woke the next morning and grabbed her fathers map.
She knew the way because she had made it to the same spot
before. She had always managed to make it too the spot, but
never go beyond it. It was a plateau overlooking a large
gorge. The plateau was surrounded on three sides by hug
mountain faces. There was no way safely up them. Endora
and Silvermist looked at them for the longest times.
She pulled her fathers map out and was about to lay it out upon
a flat stone when she saw a strange mark upon the stone.She sat down beside the stone and placed her fathers map
next to it. She began clearing the moss and dirt from it.
When the stone was cleared, she realized it was an engraved
stone with a symbol on it. A symbol in the same shape and
size of the medallion she wore around her neck.
Silvermist woke to find Endora was not in the cottage. Silvermist
wondered where she could be. She noticed she had taken
her fathers maps. Oh, Endora. You really should not have
gone alone.
Silvermist darted out of the house and headed for the meeting
place. She ran smack into a solid wall. It momentary dazedher. Then she realized it was Randw
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Silvermist, if you keep blindly flying around like that. You are libel
to really hurt yourself on of these days. Randw said.
Randw, you must come with me now. There is not time to
explain. Silvermist said.
Ok, first tell me where is Endora. Randw said.Silvermist was getting upset now. She knew time was of the utmost
important. She flew up and grabbed his ear and pulled it
roughly. Come with me now! she screamed in his ear. She
started to fly away. He still did not move. Move it mister or
else.
Oh, ok. I am not sure what is so important. But please no more
screeching my ears are ringing. Randw said.Silvermist took off and Randw at times found it difficult to navigate
some of the terrain. When he caught up to Silvermist he saw
her crossing her arms and tapping her foot in the air.
Look I do not have wings like you. I have to use my arms and legs.
I know. I know move faster. Ok, I trying. Randw said.
The finally reached the Plateau. Endora was sitting next to a stone.
She had something in her hand. There beside the rock was a
rolled up piece of parchment. He moved slowly over to her. He
knelt down beside her. Are you ok? Randw asked.
Endora looked at him then looked at Silvermist with a look that could
kill. Im fine, but a certain fairy may not be.
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Hey, she was just worried about you. Besides, what are you
doing up here anyways? Randw said.
Well, the symbols you translated they gave me a new clue.
Some of the symbols I myself did not even know. Endorasaid.
Those symbols were all map symbols. What could you possible
need to now about those symbols and what map do you need
to translate? Randw asked.
Endora knew she had no choice now but to tell him. He already
knew too much. My family and I were trying to travel to the
place of safety. The scared circle. My mother took ill and
passed on. My father buried her and tried to carry on. He
was out hunting one day and was speared by a wild boar and
passed on. I have been trying to interpret the map for years.
Silvermist and I found this place by following the map. But,we could not find our way beyond this point at least until now.
You mean you actual found the way? Silvermist asked.
I believe I might have. If I am right I had the key the whole time.
Endora chuckled.
You mean to tell me this place really exists. said Randw.
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I see it every night in my dreams. Endora said. Endora inserted
the medallion into the carved stone. The stone moved slightly
and there was a rumble . The three watched as the mountain
seemed to part. Silvermist darted in between the parting
mountains. The mountains continued to move till they wereopened just wide enough for an elf to pass through.
Endora wanted to follow Silvermist into the cavern, but Randw
put a hand gently upon her arm and held her in place.
Silvermist returned in no time. Endora removed the medallion
and place it back around her neck.
There is a cave on the other side. There is a huge network of
tunnels, then it emerges into another forest. I do not think it is
the place your father spoke of. However; it could be the way
there. Silvermist said.
Endora unrolled the map next to her. She found the symbol uponit. She followed it through Silvermists description. yes, this
is it. You are right Silvermist it sis not the place where my
father spoke of. But, it will get us closer.
Well, then I say we call this day early then. I will take my leave
and return to my home and collect my stuff and return. I will
find some place close by to make camp for the night. I willmake it close to this plateau that way you can find me in the
am. Then we can travel together. That is you want me to.
Randw said.
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I would like that, I think it would be beneficial to have a
warrior along just in case. And yes an early day would be
good so we could gather what we need. The three made
their way down to the forest floor. Randw found a spot
for camp and showed Silvermist and Endora. Then theyparted company each heading back to their homes.
Endora and Silvermist made quick work of packing. The only
thing left was the bedding and the dragons egg. They
spent the rest of the their time cleaning and double
checking everything.
Randw got home and started gathering together his
belongs. He found himself packing, unpacking and then
repacking everything. It took him three trips. But when he
was satisfied he had gotten everything he would need.
He set his camp for the night.
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9
The next morning Endora and Silvermist up and hurriedly ate
breakfast and made the last preparations for the journey.
They walked to the camp where Randw had made for thenight. At the sight of the camp, Endora said. Oh my, what
an unholy mess you have her.
Look, I can not seem to make any order of any of this. Believe
me I have tried. Randw said.
Well, obviously it was not good enough. Here allow me to see
if I could fix this. Endora said.
Fine, by all means. If can make order of this, be my guest.
said Randw.
Endora removed her pack. She made a bed of some moss and
placed the dragons egg upon it. She took the six bundles of
mess and neatly placed them orderly into the pack that he
had brought with him but oddly had not utilized it at all. She
looked around the camp to make sure she had gotten
everything. She spotted one more smaller bundle. She was
able to place it as it was onto the top of the pack.
There you are now all set to travel. Endora said.
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Randw took the pack and said, Thank you, I do appreciate this
very much. It will be much easier. By the way, what was that
you placed over there?
That is a dragons egg. I rescued it awhile ago. I think it willhatch soon. Endora said.
The put their packs on and made sure they were adjusted
properly. Endora bent down and picked up the dragons egg.
She secured it securely.
Is it truly safe to be traveling with a dragons egg that is about to
hatch. Randw asked.
It is the only option. If I had left it where it was, those men would
have destroyed it. I can not take it back because if there is
another dragon there. They would not except it. Endora said.
I had not thought of like that, but you are right. You of course are
going to set it free? Randw said.
Of course, as long as he or she chose to be free. And when he
or she is ready. Endora said.
Randw nodded and took the lead back to the plateau. Endora
placed the medallion into the stone and once again the
mountain parted.
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Ok, I will go first with Silvermist and leave my pack inside. Then I
will come back out here and wait for you to enter into the cave.
I will have enough time to run through the entrance after I
remove the medallion. Randw said.
Ok, are you sure it will work. Endora said.
Im sure. Randw said.
Endora nodded her head in agreement. She watched as both
disappeared into the cav. Randw came back quickly. He did
not have his pack. Endora stood and walked into the cave.
She heard the mountain begin to close behind her. She turned
and saw Randw emerging from the mountain. He walked over
and gave her the medallion back. He shouldered his pack
again and Endora place the medallion around her neck.
Ok, now that we are inside this cave where to we go for here?Randw asked.
Endora pulled her fathers map out and together they looked it over.
They determined the way forward. They moved slowly through
the cave and eventually ended up in a dense forest. They
looked at the map again and noticed they would have to go
through the woods to get to a river.
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They started out. Randw was in the lead. He made sure Endora
somewhat of a path to walk through. It was not easy. They
came to a small clearing. Randw noticed the hour was getting
short. He spotted a place to camp for the night.
This maybe this best spot for camp for tonight. I will go and get
some food for tonight. Randw said.
Endora looked at him, and said. You are right there is no telling
what is up ahead, but please be quick about it.
Randw dropped his pack and disappeared into the woods.
Endora watched after him as he disappeared. If, I did not
know better. Id say that you were falling for him. Silvermist
whispered in her ear.
Hush you silly fairy. I am just concerned as he does not know
these woods. Besides, he does not know that I already broughtsome food. I do not doubt that he is a hunter, but I just doubt
that he can find anything here. Endora said.
Al Silvermist could do was chuckle. They put down their pack and
set up camp. They did not remove any of the food yet. It would
have been rude to start dinner until he returned. By the time
Randw returned they had set the camp and started a smallfire.
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He came back with a couple of small forest animals. He was
surprised that Endora had made such quick work of
setting the camp. He set about dressing the animals and
placing them upon spits over the fire. He then cleaned
the pelts, and set them out to cure over night.
Endora shred some of their preserved fruits and he shared
the meat that he had caught. They talked all through
dinner. Then they crawled into their beds full.
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10
The next morning they got up and broke camp. They cloned
their packs and doubled checked to make sure it would not
be apparent that anyone had been there.
They started back through the dense woods towards the river. It
was a tough walk for all of them. Even Silvermist was having
trouble finding her way through the dense forest.
They knew there was no going back. They had to keep moving
forward. Finally, they emerged from the woods. There
before them was a raging river.
Wow, this looks like we are going to have to find a spot on this
river where the water is not moving so fast. Randw said.
She pulled the map out and show Randw the spot marked on
the map. The both moved slowly down the river. They
spotted an old rope bridge. Randw went first, testing each
board. Endora followed closely. She was not to close but
close enough so Randw could catch her if needed. They
made it to the other side. Randw surveyed the area. He
spotted a small cave. He rushed over to it and determined
that it was not occupied. He emerged from the cave.
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It looks like rain is on its way. This will keep up dry for the
night. Besides we need to recheck the map and see here
must go next. Randw said.
Endora looked around. Behind was the river and ahead waswhat appeared to be a rocky path. She looked to the skies
and she too saw the rain clouds moving in. I would have
to agree with you on that point
I will go and see if the river will give us some of her bounty for
dinner. Randw said.
Endora set about setting camp. He made quick work of
cleaning the fish and placing it upon the fire. While there
was still daylight, Randw and Endora looked over the map
together. They followed the trail over the rocks and down
into a deep gorge. They both knew this section of the
journey would not be easy at all. They sat and enjoyed
their dinner. The rain came. They went further into the
cave. They crawled into their beds and went to sleep.
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11
The next morning Endora woke to find herself being cuddled
by Randw. She jumped straight up.
:Just what the heck do you think you are doing mister. she
exclaimed loudly.
What the heck are you talking about? Randw asked
sleepily.
Oh, do not go there you know perfectly well what you did.
Endora said
Ok, ok you two. Simmer down. Now I am not sure what
exactly you did Randw, but just apologize and get it over
with so we can get going. Silvermist said.
Excuse me, but if I did something wrong I would of course
apologize. But, I do not know what I did or that I did
anything wrong. The lightning was real bad last night and
you were shaking bad so I wrapped my arms around you
and you cuddled closer to me. You did not seem to mind.You feel fast asleep. Randw said.
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Silvermist started laughing. She was laughing so hard she fell
down to the ground and grabbed her sides. Endora crossed
her arms and said. Well do not do that again.
Fine, I wont do it again. Randw said.
They gathered their packs and made sure that there was no
evidence of them being there. Endora picked up Silvermist
and got her some what under control.
The next phase of the journey was as bad as the map showed ittoo be. Randw and Endora hardly spoke the whole way up
the top of the rock path. The arrived at the end of the path.
They arrived on top of a small mountain. There was no spot
to make camp here. Endora pulled the map out and found
the path leading down to the base of the ravine.
The way down was harder than going up. It was at times difficultfinding footholds and handholds. They moved carefully and
cautious down to the base of the ravine. Randw was the
first to reach the ravines floor. He was sort of looking at
Endora, but not really. She had already accused him once
or twice of trying to look up her skirt. Of course, he wasnt.
He notice her start to slip a couple of times. But she always
managed to recover. Just of few feet from the bottom of theravine, she slipped and fell. Randw reacted quickly and
caught her. Endora looked at and him and said. Thank you
so much. Now if you do not mind, put me down.
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Randw did as asked. My apologies, my lady. I just prefer it if you
had not been hurt.
Silvermist, who was trying her best not to laugh, just watching the
too them found she could no longer hold it. She busted outlaughing.
Endora looked at her and said, Oh, hush you silly fairy and you, do
you not own one shirt, gesh. She proceeded to walk away from
the two of them and found a rock top sit upon.
Randw stood there shaking his head. He looked around and hesay the perfect place to make camp. He walked over to it and
doubled checked it. Then he put his pack down beside it and
went off aft the herd of bunnies he had just seen.
Endora watched him heading away from her and saw he was
apparently stalking something. She got up and set about
preparing the camp. Randw made quick work of his hunt and
brought them back to camp. He set to cleaning his kill and
placed them upon the fire. He then went and strung the pelt to
dry. He then disappeared into the forest. He came back with an
arm full of something. He sat down and busied himself with it.
Endora was curious about what he was doing. But, she did not want
to bother him to ask. She called him to dinner
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when it was done. They ate dinner in silence. After dinner
Randw took Endora and showed her a hammock he had
made for her. Endora said, Thank you, I really do not
disserve this. I have been so mean to you all day.
No worries. I do not mind. Besides it is better than trying to
sleep upon the ground. Randw said.
The climbed into bed and went to sleep.
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12
They woke the next morning and prepared breakfast. They
pulled out the map and looked it over. They noticed that
they would have to cross the ravine then climb up theother side. Well, it looks like it was going to be another
one of those days. They gathered up the camp and
started across the ravine. There were some grass and
shrubs starting out, but as they got towards the center of
the ravine. The vegetation grew more and more sparse.
Just as they approached the other side they found they
were heading into more grass and shrubs.
They finally reached the other side of the ravine. They
decided it was best to try to find a way up before making
camp. Silvermist flew above the couple and gave them
the best way up. It was not easy going at all. But finally
they arrived at the top.
To their amazement there was a pond and lots of fruit
bearing trees. They found a safe place to make camp.
Randw set off to find some kind of meat for dinner.
Endora set about making the camp. When she was
done, she snuck off to the pond to take a quick dip.When she arrived there, she found she was not alone.
Randw already was in the water. He stood up. Endora
quickly dove behind a bush. She peeked out
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and saw that he was not wearing anything at all. She quickly
adverted her eyes. She knew it was not proper to see a man
like that proper to see a man like that prior to their wedding
night. She waited till he left then slipped quietly into the water
and quickly cleansed herself.
She made haste in redressing and headed back to camp. Randw
had dressed his kill and had it cooking over the fire. He saw
Endora walking back to camp. He stood and walked over to her
and whispered in her ear, Hope you enjoyed the view.
I have no idea what you are talking about. Endora said.
I think you most certainly do. Otherwise, you would not be blushing
so. Randw said and turned and walked back to the fire.
For once Endora had no come back for this, she just considered it to
be payback for what had happened the other day. She walked
slowly back to the fire and picked up the map. She noticed that
they would either have to cross through or go over a small
mountain range before crossing a huge river.
She went over and showed Randw. He suggested that they not
deviate from the path laid out on the map. But, it did appeared
on the map. But, it did appear to be both. They had their dinner
and retired for the evening.
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13
They woke up the next morning and started out. They followed
the path laid out upon the map. It was so far just a winding
trail weaving through t he mountains. They came to a spoton the map. From the look of the terrain it looked like they
would be climbing this section. But, Endora pointed to the
symbol for a cave. Randw came over and looked at it too.
They searched the rock face and could not locate the cave.
Then they spotted another flat stone with marking upon it. It
was not the same as Endoras medallion. Randw removed
his medallion it was a match. They watched as themountains parted and another cave appeared. Randw
went inside and placed the pack down just inside the cave.
He emerged and her and Silvermist went ahead of him into
the cave. Once he was sure they were inside, he removed
the medallion and darted inside the cave.
Once the mountain was close, it was too dark within the cave to
move. Endora created a light orb. Ok now, that we can
see. Lets see about getting out of this cave.
Wait a minute . Randw said, How did you do that?
Its a gift. I am still learning to control it. Endora said.
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Fine, lets just get out of here. Randw said.
He was not under any circumstances tell her he was terrified of
the dark. Although he knew she was afraid of lightning.
They finally emerged from the cave. Randw wasthoroughly relieved. He did not want to show it though. We
wanted her to believe that he had no fear. They now fund
themselves in front of another river. They consulted the map
and found they needed to go down river. They followed the
map and the river down stream. They cam upon an old
mining village. There was a couple of old abandoned
houses there. They saw the wooden bridge crossing theriver. They decided it best if they made camp for the night.
They went about the evening chores and went to bed.
Randw woke in the middle of the night to thunder. He
looked over and saw Endora shivering. He donned a shirt
and went over wrapped his arms around her.
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13
Randw woke the next morning with every intention of slipping
out of bed before Endora woke. However; the moment he
went to move. She snuggled closer to him. So instead hesimply was enjoying watching her sleep.
Silvermist woke and spotted them. She flew over to Randw
and whispered in his ear, Just what are you doing?
Well, I was trying to get up when Endora snuggled even closerto me. replied Randw. I really would like to move before
she chews me out again?
Why are you even over here? You were over there last night.
whispered Silvermist.
Well, she had a really bad dream last night and was tossing and
turning. said Randw.
Oh, that dream. said Silvermist. Let me try something it
usually works. She fly up and whispered something in
Endoras ear. She moved slightly. Enough for Randw to
get up out of bed and sneak outside with the pretense offixing breakfast. Then a fit of laughter hit Silvermist. Endora
woke to Silvermists laughter.
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I swear Silvermist I really must get a hold of whatever it is that is
causing you to laugh lately and take it from you.
Oh, that is nothing my dear. This is merely laughter of joy.
Silvermist said.
Endora was left scratching her head. She woke up to find
breakfast had been prepared by Randw. After breakfast, they
gathered up all their belongings and started across the bridge.
Once the arrived on the other side, they consulted the map
again. It looked liked today they would have to be traveling
through a large forest.
They started walking through the forest, when Endora started
hearing a tiny squeak. She stopped where she was and
listened. It was louder this time. Randw stopped and turned
around. He noticed that Endora had stopped in the middle of
the path. He doubled back to where she was. Whats wrong
Endora? he asked.
Shh, listen. she said.
Then the noise came again. She knew what it was this time. She
set her pack on the ground. She gently removed the egg and
placed it upon a soft mound of grass. The dragon is calling hisor her mother or father.
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Well, that general means that the egg is about to hatch. We
should leave it here. His or her father could come by
anytime. Randw said.
Do you know for sure that the dragons father is even alive?Have you seen any sign of him? Endora asked.
Randw thought long and hard. As many times as he had
passed the cave. He had not seen any signs of another
dragon. No, I have no idea if he is or he is not alive.
Fine, so you are telling me you would leave a blind, helpless
newborn alone in a strange place. Endora said.
Ok, ok you win. We will stay here and we will wait till it hatches.
Randw said.
They sat there for a few minutes. The egg started moving.
Rocking back and forth. Then the egg cracked opened and
out emerged a very tiny baby dragon. He stretched his wings
and tried to walk. Randw removed a cooked piece of meat
from his pack and handed it little dragon. The dragon took the
food that was proffered to him and immediately walked over to
Randw and climbed into his lap.
Well, it looks like you have a new friend. So, now its up to you
to name it. Endora said.
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Randw looked down at the dragon and said, Looks like it. It
may take me a few days to so though. He gently picked up
the dragon and his pack. Well, we best get going or we will
not find a place to set camp up for the night.
Endora nodded her head and picked up her pack and continued
walking through the forest. They reached a large clearing in
the middle of the forest. She pulled the map out and looked at
it. Well this appears to be the center of the forest.
Randw leaned over her should and said, Yes, you appear to be
right. Then we should make camp here and try to traverse theremainder of the forest in the morning. He handed the small
dragon to Endora and set off in search of food.
They cooked dinner and set camp and then retired to bed.
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15
The next morning they were woken with the loud screeching of
the dragon. They rose up out of bed. The little dragon was
near the fire pit screeching to the sky. They heard a deeper,louder screech in return. The party froze where they were.
They watched as a huge dragon came and landed in the middle
of the clearing. He walked over and sniffed the little dragon.
The little dragon sniffed him back.
Who ha brought my son here, and what are your intentions?
demand the dragon.
Endora, regardless of her own safety, emerged from her hiding
spot and walked slowly over to the great beast. It was I who
removed your son from the nest deep within the cave your
mate had made. She fought valiantly for you your son, butalas she could not fight against all of those me. She lost her
fight. I removed this from her after she had passed, but only
so I could have something with her scent upon it to help your
son. I knew if I had left him there he would have surely been
killed too. Endora said.
The dragon lowered his head and sniffed the scale Endora was
holding in her hand. The dragon was close enough she
could see the tears in his eyes. Yes truly, that is from my
mate, and it was obtained from her upon her death.
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I owe you a debt of gratitude. Why are you here and are you
traveling alone? he asked.
I travel to the sacred circle with my best friend, Silvermist, and my
intended, Randw. Endora said.
Well, its improper for you to travel with a man who is not your
husband even if your best friend is traveling with you. The
dragon said.
I know this. Endora said. But, there were no more shamans
where we come from. It was my fathers and his fathers
intention for us to marry to join the two tribes. We knew most of
the other elves had already gone to the sacred circle so that is
where we are heading.
I assume then you have a map. If so, please bring it here. the
dragon said.
Endora went and got the map and spread it upon the ground in
front of the dragon. The dragon studied it. Then he took and
pierced his skin with on of his front claws. He made a mark
upon the map. Go to that spot first. You will find what you
need there.
Thank you. Endora said. With that the dragon picked up the
scale from his mate and placed it in his mouth and grabbed his
son in his talon and flew off.
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Endora stood and watched them fly away. Randw stormed over
and grabbed her arm and spun her around. Are you out of your
mind? Do you not know what he could have done to you?
Endora stared into his eyes. She saw the anger in his eyes. Shealso felt his fear and terror. She also saw a vision of him
cuddling her and holding her when the terror nightmare had
come to her. And she also saw Silvermist whispering in her
ear. Now she realized why she had been laughing so hard
about yesterday morning.
Endora are you going to answer me or not. demanded Randw.
Endora leaned over and kissed him on his lips. He momentarily let
his hold on her go for a split second and she darted over and
began hurriedly packing up the camp and collecting the map.
Now it was Randw and Silvermist who had become
speechless. Endora walked over and handed Randw his
pack. We still have a long journey and we need to get to thenext stop before the sun sets. She turned and started back
down the forest path.
The other two had no choice but to follow her. Endoras pace was
quick and rapid. The other two found it difficult to keep up with
her. When the party emerged from the wood, Randw and
Silvermist was slightly winded.
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Endora paused a moment and looked at the map and then looked
around. She spotted the little cottage a short distance away in
a grove of trees. She rolled the map and started towards the
cottage. She approached the cabin and knocked upon the
door. An older elf answered the door. She looked at Endora
and threw open the door. She ran out of the cabin and hugged
her tightly. Both women now where in tears.
The older elf spotted Randw and she let Endora go and then
rushed over and hugged Randw tightly. He felt the very
breathe within being squeezed out of him. Then she placed a
kiss upon his cheek. She ushered the three of them inside.
I am Pandoress, an elf shaman and Endoras aunt on her
mothers side. she said to Randw. So how is my sister and
her husband? she asked Endora.
I am afraid they are both no longer among the living. Endora
said.
Pandoress sat down and said a small blessing and asked Endora
to tell her everything.
While Endora caught her aunt up on the family, Randw excused
himself and let the three woman talk among themselves. Hebegan preparing the evening meal.
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dinner was finished he served the meal and set it out in front of
the women. Pandoress momentarily paused and said, You
did not have to this Randw
It was my pleasure. It was apparent the three of you needed tocatch up and besides it is something that needed to be done.
Besides, I am used to preparing my own food as I have been
on my own for many years. Randw said.
Pandoress found sleeping arrangements for all of them, and the
all retired for the night. Sometime during the night Randw
heard someone calling out in sheer terror. He got up from
bed and he saw Endora sitting up in bed and still fast asleep.
It appeared she was in the grips of a really bad nightmare.
He did not care what it would look like. He felt her fear. He
rushed over to her and sat upon the bed. He drew her into
his arms and began rocking her. She slowly calmed down
and fell fast asleep upon his chest. Randw, for fear ofwaking her, stretched out on the bed and drew a blanket
around her and fell asleep himself.
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16
The next morning Pandoress woke. She found the two of them.
She knew immediately what had happened. She moved to
the kitchen and began preparing breakfast. While breakfastwas cooking, she set out about preparing herself for the
hand fasting, which she knew she would have to do quickly
in order to preserver her niece. She already knew that both
were still pure and she intended to keep her that way.
Endora woke the next morning to find herself cuddling Randw.
One of his arms gently draped over her shoulder and theother over the side of the bed. She noticed he had forgotten
to put on a shirt. She ran her hand over his chest and gently
kissed him on his cheek and slipped out of bed. She slipped
into the kitchen where she Pandoress was busy fluttering
around. She appeared to be making flower arrangements
and making breakfast at the same time.
I sincerely hope you do not intend to cook those flowers auntie.
Endora said.
I though you where still sleeping. Especially after last nights
dream. Pandoress said. And, no I do not intend to cook
these flowers. These are for you hand fasting. Which will
occur today, before you leave to complete your journey.
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Endora stood there and stared at her aunt. She knew she was a
shaman and had always had very special abilities and gifts,
but she just never realized what exactly they were till now.
Pandoress finished breakfast and the preparations for the handfasting. She helped her niece into her mothers dress. She
found and laid out the garments that Randws father had
been joined in. When the couple was ready the party
proceeded outside and Pandoress preformed the ceremony.
The whole ceremony went by in a blur.
When Pandoress had finished the ritual. Randw got to pay
Endora back for the kiss of earlier. Then the couple
redressed into their traveling garments and gathered their
belongings together. Randw folded the garment careful that
Pandoress had given to him. He walked over and tried to
hand it back to Pandoress. She pushed it back to him. Oh,
no that was your fathers. He wore that when he was joined
with your mother. Its rightfully yours Randw clutched the
garment and tears began to well up inside. No need to thank
me. Randw placed the garments inside his pack.
The party was ready to leave. Endora turned to her aunt and
asked, Are you coming with us?
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No little one, I am not. For there are still others who are coming
and I must be here when they arrive. You must go to the
sacred circle. You will have two more days to travel before you
get there. You must hurry time is of the most important and you
can not waste it. The two woman hugged and the party began
walking away.
Endora paused a moment and consulted the map. The both
noticed they would have to clear the small grove of trees, then
cross a vast field, then another river, then a small mountain
before they got to the tree. The last symbol on the map.
They cleared the grove in no time. They found themselves starring
across a field of green grass as far as the eye could see. They
began walking hand and hand across the field. Silvermist flew
above the grass and kept watch for the couple.
Endora and Randw talked and walked. The grass at times was
short and low and other times it was taller than they were. Thefound at times they were having to walk around or step over
stones and other objects that had become lost in the tall grass.
They noticed that the sun was beginning to sink lower in the sky.
They knew they could not make camp here. They quickened
their steps and asked Silvermist if she could see the river. They
kept walking. Then they both heard
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It almost at the same time it was the river. They rushed quickly to
the banks of the river. They looked around and found no place
to make camp. They both decided to go ahead and cross the
river. Maybe on the other side they would find a place to make
camp there.
They made their way slowly across the bridge. They began to
search for a place to rest for the night. It took them awhile, but
finally they found a small cave. They barely had time to set a
fire up. There was not time to go and look for food. They
looked through their packs and found several food items that
her aunt had packed for them.
They made a bed and they crawled into. The temperature got
really cold that night. They combined covers and snuggled
closely together and tried to sleep.
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17
The next morning they woke and started a fire and made
breakfast. They donned extra clothing and grabbed their
packs and started out. They followed the path marked upon
the map. They began by going down a winding path. There
was lots of slippery rocks still wet with the morning dew.
Then it got steeper and steeper at times it seemed almost
impassable. They finally made it to the ridge. They stood up
on the ridge and looked around.
They spotted the tree. It was a huge massive tree. One that
could have been there since the beginning of time. It stillappeared to be a ways off. They consulted the map and they
located the way down.
The dew had still not completely dried. They found themselves
slipping and sliding all the way down. Then they found the
path began to wind around the mountain. They found
themselves going up and sometimes going down. They foundthe path was really narrow in some places. They continued
walking the path till they had finally reached the base of the
mountain. They found that they could no longer see the tree.
They consulted the map and started across a small marsh and
through a tiny grove of trees. Then the were face to f acewith another mountain. They looked at the map and followed
the path laid out upon it. They found themselves on yet
another winding mountain trail. They were
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They were climbing the mountain slowly. T was easier now. The
dew had been dried off the rocks for the most part.
They reached the second ridge. They spotted the tree it was
much closer now. They looked at the map and found the waydown. They started down the trail. They continued walking
down the trail and they now found themselves in a stone gorge
of sorts. Everywhere they looked there was a rock face on all
four sides. There seemed to be no way up or around these
rock faces.
Endora sat down in the middle of the quarry. She put herself intoa deep trance. She called upon a vision to come to her. She
was deep into the trance when the vision came to her. She
saw a wall of stone it had two symbols upon it. One appeared
to be hers and the other appeared to be Randws. She
brought herself out of the trance and jumped up nearly
knocking Randw over in the process. She darted over to the
wall she had seen in her vision. She began dusting the wall offto remove some of the dust from it.
Randw, I found it. I found it. Endora exclaimed excitably.
Randw rushed over to her and saw what she saw. Her turned
her slightly and kissed her with all of his heart and hugged hertight.
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They did not place the medallions upon the stone, but rather the
medallions themselves placed themselves upon the stone and
disappeared into the rock face.
Then a great rumble occurred. The rock face began slowlysliding open. The three of them walked through the opening
together and where amazed at what the saw. They heard the
mountain close behind them. They were frozen in total awe.
The walls and the floors of the cave seemed to be total
illuminated by some kind of glowing dust or something. The
moved slowly through the cave. Then they found themselves
walking through a field of butterflies and mushrooms and tinyfairies and all kinds of magical beings.
They continued on through the field they found themselves
walking through a huge tree. They ha barely entered the tree
when they where swarmed by all kinds of beings. Endora
was taken in one direction and Randw was taken in another
direction.
Endora now found herself being undressed and shown to a
bathing pool. She found herself being cleansed and bath by
nymphs. Then she was dried and dressed by others. She
found herself having her hair done by another.
Randw found himself being dragged away for Endora. He found
himself being undressed and shown into a bathing pool.
When they felt him cleaned. He found himself being
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dried and dressed and his hair being down.
The next thing they both knew were they being dragged into the
center of the tree. The sacred circle of life for all the elves. A
place of ritual and of ceremony. There stood a cleric and theboth were brought before him. The cleric began a ritual of
sorts. Neither of them knew what was happening. Gathered
round where other elves and magical beings. The cleric
finished his ritual. Then a High Priest of Elves came up with
two more clerics on each side. They carried pillows. The
High Priest instructed the couple to kneel. He said a few
more words and then place a golden crown upon Randwshead. Then he said a few more words and placed a golden
crown upon Endoras head. He instructed the couple to stand
and turn around. He said a few more word then a roar
erupted from the crowd.
The couple found themselves being carried through he tree.
They were set down at a huge table with a feast unlike any
that either of them had ever seen. They ate, drank, and
danced together.
Then the couple was shown to their quarters. They found
themselves once again being undressed and redress. Then
the were shown into a bed chamber. They heard the boltbeing thrown and they knew that they where locked in this
room together. They climbed into bed.
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They knew not the time when they woke. They just knew that their
minds where still slightly foggy and they were unawares to where
their clothes where at the moment. They heard the lock being
opened and an elf came in and place two sets of cloths upon two
chairs. He kept his eyes adverted from the couple out of sheer
respect.
When you have properly attired yourselves, the High Priest wishes a
word with you. he said and he left the room and closed the door.
The couple did as they were asked. They dressed and left the bed
chamber. They went to find the High Priest. They stood beforethe High Priest. Endora out right asked the High Priest, Oh, I
really do not know what is going on her. But I demand to know
what it is.
My apologies, My Lady. Maybe we could have waited awhile and
allowed you to settle in first, but we sensed there was very little
time left. the High Priest said.
What the heck are you talking about? asked Randw
My Lord, we needed to ensure that the coronation was complete
and the consummation of the marriage also occurred. he
replied.
What! You are telling me that some maid is right now checking the
sheets and hanging them out on public
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Display. Endora exclaimed.
Of course, My lady. It is the custom and the tradition. The High
Priest sad.
Ok, I am still very lost. Randw said. And why are your
referring to us as Lord and Lady.
Because, My Lord you are now the King of the Elves and we must
ensure the consummation of the the marriage to ensure an heir
to the throne. The High Priest said.
The next days flew by Endora and Randw. The found themselves
learning everything about the war and the fates of the elves.
Everything they needed to know in order to rule. Their lives
were now complete. They had found the tribes and each other.
They had a son on heir to the throne they name him Aubry of
his grandfather. The would live out the rest of their lives inpeace.