Crossbow-Isle | Crossroads part 1

Irefenia Salgonda & Elensaar Gelindor

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Crossbow Isle – The Quest – Part 1

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Irefenia Salgonda & Elensaar Gelindor

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Crossbow Isle – The Quest – Part 1

Crossbow Isle Crossroads

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Crossbow Isle – Crossroads – Part 1

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Irefenia Salgonda & Elensaar Gelindor

Crossbow Isle Volume IV

Crossroads Part 1

Irefenia Salgonda Elensaรกr Gelindor Editor KLJ

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Crossbow Isle – Crossroads – Part 1

Copyright © 2012 Irefenia Salgonda & Elensaár Gelindor All rights reserved.

Registered with the IP Rights Office Copyright Registration Service Ref. [253510418]

Copyright © Irefenia Salgonda & Elensaár Gelindor Published by ISEG Media® Crossroads – Volume 4 – Part 1 First published 2014 Edition: 1st 2014 Illustrations & Cover© Elensaár Gelindor ISBN-10: 1500630489 ISBN-13: 978-1500630485 CS-Title ID: 4920014 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the authors.

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HiQ+ The ultimate entertainment for Intelligent People

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Abridged Recapitulation of Volume 3 – The Quest Parts 1, 2 and 3 SPOILER ALERT! (If you have not read those books yet, be warned that the following is a spoiler. If you read it now, you will learn about names and essential developments that will be detrimental to the reading pleasure of these books but you won’t understand the entire story of Crossbow Isle if you had not read all previous books.)

After the short but hefty winter and the celebration of Alban Eiler for which Ddraig had ‘carried’ the sun of spring on his back to Willowbee, Enyana and Y Ddraig Goch decided to inspect the north farthings of Crossbow Isle for damages caused by the countless landslides that Oqualorak’s voice and sounds had triggered. After a much welcome interlude in Caradoc Castle and the naming of the new village to Caravalley, they followed the Ardara River where the vigilance of the shepherd Cormac directed them to a tributary that had almost dried out over the winter.

A close inspection revealed a threatening situation where a land and rockslide had dammed up an entire vale and the waters had no where to drain. Hence the whole valley had filled and the dam was close to collapse. Further inspections revealed more landslides that had blocked smaller rivers whose waters contributed now along with the melting water from the mountains to the aggravating and threatening situation in that dale. Therefore, Enyana decided to engage also Elensaár and her Seanmhair Morgan, the healer of Willowbee who held the powers over the wild waters.

Almost at the last moment, they were able to prevent the imminent catastrophe to happen and after days of hard labour, they restored the natural flow of water in that part of the mountains. As Enyana and Ddraig scanned the drained x

Irefenia Salgonda & Elensaar Gelindor

valley for hidden damages, they found by chance the fracture of a panel with gilded elven scripture, which was not only very beautifully crafted but entirely out of place. A search of the valley for other parts of that fractured panel was fruitless and they continued their flight over the mountainous regions of Crossbow Isle, but nowhere else had the situation been as threatening as near Caradoc Castle.

A few days later, Cormac the vigilant shepherd, made the unexpected acquaintance of a dwarf who belonged to the tribe of the Pjόðroerir dwarfs. They had lived in the mountains for hundreds of years but had successfully avoided any contact to other beings to stay away from being coerced into granting favours to people who did not deserve it. Nevertheless, Fullangr the son of the Pjόðroerir had met Zaron long time ago and decided to make contact to him, which rekindled the old friendship and soon he remembered about another piece of that fractured panel to which he guided Enyana and Zaron after some persuasion with the tempting aroma of pipeweed.

Now that Fullangr's interest was roused, other incidents recalled the memories of a story that his grandfather Olnir had once told him and as Fullangr questioned Olnir with limited success, they found the “Spire of the North” and later, the second attempt to clarify the pending questions led to an invitation for the Trinity to visit the well hidden realm of the Pjόðroerir named Yamen’ Grotha Naugrim. As they arrived, they were overwhelmed by its splendid design, hence very unexpected appearance but is was no lesser surprise as the Pjόðroerir asked them to re-establish an old alliance between elves, dwarfs, druids and humans, whose reestablishment was acknowledged by the appearance of ghost like manifestations of their ancestors. xi

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However, Elensaár who studied the ancient elven tongue with aid of the palantir was not lesser astounded than the rest of his friends by the large number of questions that had begun to pile up since Ddraig's Minya Nosta. The appearance of those fragments, which much to their astonishment were found in sequence but in very different places culminated lastly in unearthing all the fragments of a queer panel whose inscriptions contained additional riddles that had to be solved before they could partly comprehend the goal of their quest.

Now, questions after questions mushroomed but the answers still remained elusive. The Pjόðroerir were engaged to solve the many riddles but instead of finding answers, they found more questions and on top of that, Olnir, Fullangr's grandfather, remembered a journey that had led him not only to a disturbing discovery that he could not describe with words but also to a place called Corracloona, where the Trinities abilities were suspended as soon they had crossed Corracloona’s boundaries.

In Corracloona, they found out why Olnir had known more about the Trinity than they knew themselves and were bestowed with two queerly behaving crystals of which they had not the slightest idea whereto they belonged but on their flight to Willowbee, Ddraig, Zaron and Fullangr discovered a structure that had emerged from the ground at the time as Enyana had received her miraculous crystal.

Whilst the riddle masters in Yamen’ Grotha Naugrim discussed the many possible interpretations of the panel script, one member of the clan who had earlier been caught eavesdropping stole three parchments with questions that were not meant for everyone’s eye. Meanwhile, Fullangr was xii

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invited as reward for his loyalty and help on a journey to Ai Seler’ en’ Tolea’Fuin. As they stayed on the elven island, Ly Cheen Reedfly sought advice from Enyana and Elensaár about a queer notion that turned out to be her ultimate question and during her not lesser unusually developing Tar’marty a’Ambar Tel’Quessir, she as well received two names like Elensaár and her new name was Irefenia, daughter of the house of Salgonda. Along with her new name, she received a beautiful but queerly behaving necklace in the shape of a butterfly. Moreover, she was revealed being the last member of the Companionship of Seekers who was poised to solve the mystery of the quest.

On their journey back to Crossbow Isle, Irefenia's necklace guided them into a hidden underground harbour at the southwestern tip of Crossbow Isle where they found another crystal hidden in the ceiling of a room. Considering that with Enyana's crystal, one of those queer structures had emerged, they searched for the one that must have emerged with Irefenia's crystal and after a lengthy search, they were quite successful and did not only find this structure but also the ancient race of the Onodrim who were entrusted with guarding that device.

Investigations had revealed that at least Enyana's crystal belonged to the structure that had emerged first and during a map making exercise in Yamen’ Grotha Naugrim that fell not short of some comical situations, they figured out that there had to be a third structure that had not emerged yet since a crystal for it had not been found up to date.

However, the right place was identified and a search indicated that indeed, this structure was still hidden in the ground below a lake. xiii

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That time, Torgos had finally found a place where he could get in contact with his former ally Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer, the ruler of the worlds below, but much to Torgos's dismay, he did not receive his powers as he had hoped, instead, his mind was possessed by a demon named Tokolosh who had to ensure that Torgos would not stray again from his new order to capture Fullangr's grandfather Olnir, who was the only person who ever saw the gate that Enyana and Ddraig saw in a vision as they had searched the lake.

With no other choice, Torgos obeyed and captured not only Olnir but also the twisted and ill minded Bávorr who was eavesdropping and stolen the parchments. Long time ago, Bávorr had killed hundreds of his clansmen including Olnir's only son Gilgur in the pit that was now called “The Mine of Doom”. They were dumped together behind a massive landslide that was supposed to close the mine forever.

Inside the mine, Bávorr turned entirely mad and killed himself after revealing the truth about that long bygone ‘accident’ he had caused. Now the shaken-up Olnir had to find his way out and managed with his mining and mountaineer climbing skills that bone crushing task bravely.

Once outside, he contacted Zaron who retrieved him from the slope of that mountain and soon enough, Torgos appeared not knowing that Olnir had already returned, threatening to kill Olnir if the White powers were not leaving the island within a week’s time.

Understanding Torgos's sinister plot, they played along and duped not only Torgos but also Tokolosh, and as Torgos reported their ‘glorious deed’ to Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer, they both were in for a surprise that they would never forget.

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Thanks to the vigilance and courage of the little elven Norhidayu, the Companionship of Seekers learnt facts that led to the assumption that the time had come when Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer had no other choice than to wage war against the Pjόðroerir and the White Powers, and how the tale continues can be found here in the chapters of the third volume of Crossbow Isle named “Crossroads”.

Crossroads, – volume four of the Crossbow Isle sequel continues a part of the tale and we wish you much reading pleasure. However, for really understanding this volume and everything that follows, you should have read the first three volumes completely since Crossbow Isle is ONE large tale of more than 4,500 book pages and not a conglomeration of independent episodes! This abridged recap of the complex story is not sufficient to fill you in, but merely meant to refresh your memories.

Enjoy

Elensaar Gelindor & Irefenia Salgonda

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Preface Dear Reader and Elven friend. As Crossbow Isle spans over five volumes in fifteen parts, we found it most suitable to let you know what the entire tale holds in stock. Therefore, we have ‘conjured’ a very brief introduction to the tale of Crossbow Isle.

 About four-thousand-years ago, the Elven Planet Phaéthon was deliberately destroyed in a fiery inferno and a large number of its inhabitants were stranded between the times. From within this void, time did not anymore appear as a consecutive string of events but allowed their minds to access some of the many realities that are attributed to each planet.

The lass Ithilhin or Moonchild was born and lived in one of those accessible realities of planet Earth on a place called Crossbow Isle. Here, Ithilhin, the Moonchild was raised by elves who had ‘somehow’ come to that island as well.

As the ripples of the event that had led to the destruction of Phaéthon bounced back and struck the reality where Crossbow Isle was located, another part of the plot unfolds, coercing Ithilhin and her friends into an intriguingly planned plot, which is spiced with countless mantraps, hilarious to gut-wrenching situations and deadly fights that eventually will guide them to an event that changes this universe and its realities and reverses the adverse influences of the ‘One’ who had caused the destruction of Phaéthon. However, they are not yet able to influence the effects on the planet that the ‘One’ had isolated and occupied for himself, – the people and world he had changed to his liking – Earth! xvii

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Table of contents I 1st Day, Escape into Nothingness ................... - 1 -

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I 1st Day, Escape into Nothingness The heat on Torgos’s backside must be unbearable. Even the unconscious mind of his host seemed to squirm, trying to get the limp body of the ‘Unconquerable Torgos’ away from the searing heat that blistered the skin under the coarse fabric of his tunic. Tokolosh tried to hover as fast as he could steer his host’s body through the dark channels deep in the belly of a nameless mountain to reach the upper world because he knew well enough, at this moment, his Master was not in the mood to listen to any reasoning, – something that he actually was rarely considering at any time.

The head, face, shoulders, arms and hands of the former ‘mage’ made lasting ‘acquaintances’ with the rough walls and rocks that obtruded from wall and ceiling and he felt that the -1-

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life-light of the unconscious mind threatened to fade away, which was the last thing he could afford in this situation. He had to keep him alive or else, his own ‘kind of life’ would cease to exist with Torgos’s demise. Too far was he away from those places where he needed no body to survive.

He frantically worked on keeping the little flame of Torgos’s life burning whilst he tried to see the path ahead through the blood-clouded view of his host’s eyes as another corner appeared in front that he had to manage without slowing down too much.

The droning voice of Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer filled the air and he was not sure if Torgos would ever hear again, whilst another hefty thud indicated that Torgos’s head had once again met with an obstacle that somehow had blocked the way but even that was not of his concern anymore. He had to reach the upper regions of which he knew that the ruler of the worlds below could not stay for long without suffering severely himself.

Left, right, right, straight ahead – he merciless drove the mage’s body through the labyrinth of the underworld until he realised that they must have gained some distance or Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer was not able or willing to follow any longer. The sound of the thundering voice began to fade and he began to wonder that Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer had not just simply cut off his ability to hover.

“Why has he not done that? Was that hunt just for the sport or did he have other intentions?” he asked himself whilst he slowed down and diverted some of his little powers to keep Torgos alive.

The air had become slightly cooler but the blood that ran from the many wounds on Torgos body made it more and more difficult to keep him functioning.

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It was true, the mighty ruler of the worlds below had given up his pursuit and the sound of his earthshaking voice faded away. Darkness embraced the grotesquely mingled figure of that being that not only had always been overly confident about his own capabilities but also had arrogantly ignored every warning. However, this time and at least for once, – he had not failed their Master but was duped by powers that were apparently by far more witty and powerful than even his Master seemed to believe.

He slowly hovered the wrecked corpus ahead until after a very, very long time, a shimmer of moonlight shone through the narrow fissure that concealed one of the few entrances to those place where Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer was able to appear for making direct contact with his servants of the upper world.

As soon as he had reached that cleft, he slowly hovered Torgos’s body to the outside and tried to see something through his blood-crusted eyes. One eye must have been ripped out of its socket because he could only see the two bloodstained legs, feet and the ground whilst the other eye still seemed to work adequately but currently it was just too clouded with blood to see far enough.

He managed to raise Torgos’s left hand, grabbed somehow the right eyeball and pointed it ahead, trying to see something around. Yeah, – that was the place that he had hoped to reach. Not very far away was a runlet where he would try repairing his host as good as possible. The little flame of his life was weak but still burned and he remembered that Torgos was still immortal which seemed to help on this occasion. Any mortal being with such wounds would have ceased to exist quite a while ago.

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Slowly he hovered to the little brook and managed to prop Torgos’s body somehow against one of the larger rocks at the fringe of the little stream that he could begin with the repair work.

With the left hand he tried to scoop water and wash that eyeball that was ripped out of its socket ere he could try to place it back because it still seemed to function sufficiently well.

After a few fruitless attempts he could see through it and carefully he tried to clean all the dirt and blood away ere he attempted to set it back. It felt as if it would work but once he had placed it into its socket it popped out and he had to try it again. Now he took the eye and turned it carefully around to see why it had not snapped in to its socket as he thought it would and had to realise that this side of the head must have had a very intense encounter with one of the rocks that had protruded from wall or ceiling.

For a short while, he pondered what he could do and decided that he needed to use the few powers he had to rearrange the energy structures of Torgos skull from the inside that they would at least hold that eye in place, – he needed that for all the other work that was still waiting to be accomplished ere he could even think about finding another host. He had to enable Torgos body to live on his own or else, that would be the end of Torgos and Tokolosh and that certainly was not his intention.

For hours he worked feverishly whilst the little flame of life burned lower and lower and he realised that if he would not succeed soon enough, all would be over.

Torgos however did not know yet what had happened to him. He had not even moaned as Tokolosh had mended the -4-

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fractured bones of his skull, had pulled the skin into place that the eye was not drying out, had joined the bones in his arms and shoulders. The right hand was still badly mangled and most likely would not fully function anymore but the Demon had at least managed to stop all bleeding and tried now to scoop up some water into the almost toothless mouth. It had taken a lot of effort to get that badly damaged body coughing and therewith rid of all the teeth that had more or less blocked the windpipe down to the lungs.

A short while ago had the eastern horizon turned red and soon the sun would stand high enough to burn merciless down, parching the body of his host even further. He had to find some shelter or all his efforts would be in vain.

He let him slip from the rock that his back and head lay in the little stream and scooped water into the mouth with the left hand which worked sufficiently well but some drops must have found their way into the windpipe and the failing body responded with convulsive spasms and coughing.

Nevertheless, that actually spurred his host’s life instincts and he breathed more deeply and began softly to moan. With much effort he made Torgos’s head turn to the side to find for shelter and much to his luck a little upstream, he beheld an overhang that would give enough shelter for the time being.

Once he hovered the still unconscious body beneath the rocks, he watched how Torgos responded. He was very weak and Tokolosh was not sure if all his efforts would be rewarded. The only hope he had was that the gift of immortality would be strong enough to prevail. ď‚œ -5-

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After Elensaár had brought out his toast, expressing his hope that one fine day peace and freedom would reign for more than just a few months, they discussed what had to be arranged during the next few days and how they had to spread the information as quickly as possible that something very bad was about to unfold without using the abilities of their minds.

Using their mind-connections, except for the Trinity, could possibly have been sensed by Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer and that was certainly not what they wanted. Not too soon should the Ruler of the worlds below find out that those he had wanted to disappear were not only still around but aware that something was brewing.

Whilst they prepared for staying the first night in another part of the secure area of Yamen’ Grotha Naugrim where small chambers were driven into the solid rocks, Norhidayu proposed that after some rest, she could fly down to Willowbee to let Morgan know what had happened and that they had to use Morgan’s talents to inform all others.

Willowbee was surely far enough away from this place that the little activities would not attract Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer’s attention. It more likely would be the opposite if all would suddenly be quiet.

Enyana looked at the little elven. “That’s a good idea Norhidayu but what do you think if we do it together?

Ddraig can still use his wings, which definitely is an absolute natural ability that cannot be sensed at all and once we have reached Willowbee, my seanmhair can send you down to Rialian Yldannan to inform Queen Deirdre that she has to get in contact with Queen Nooriaty.

All our elven archers have to prepare the same way as they had done it for the Northman, the Orontai and Oqualorak.

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As soon as Zaron and Elensaár have set everything here in Yamen’ Grotha Naugrim in motion, then one member of the Trinity has to come to Rialian Yldannan or Ai Seler’ en’ Tolea’Fuin where we can discuss what else needs to be done.

If we take off before sunrise then darkness will hide Ddraig’s shape and if he shrinks to the size of a large bird, only his wings will be different from a bird’s wing. That reminds me that I should inform Gawain and his clan to have a closer look at the mountainous regions.

However, I will see how much I can shrink that Ddraig can maintain a small figure until we are far enough away. Once we have set our Willowbee’ers in motion, Ddraig and I shall fly to Caradoc Castle because we can expect that something will happen there as well. I don’t believe that Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer has forgotten the moment as I had returned that bull to the worlds below”, she ended chuckling.

Elensaár had listened and nodded, “Yeah, that sounds very well thought and I am sure that you are right. He certainly will remember your deed. I really would wonder if not. I am sure that at least your name is on top of his agenda.

However, what you say is right and that way the Trinity can stay in contact without using any powers which would give us away whilst our big friend can prepare all that is needed”.

Now it was good night and in the chamber that Elensaár and Enyana shared, a soft conversation continued until also here the light was dimmed.  As if on a wakeup call, Enyana got up and dressed swiftly whilst she woke the softly purring dragon who slept in one

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of the corners wherein he had wedged his long tail with the keen blades, not to endanger anyone.

“Hullo sleepyhead, – ready for our ride?”

Still drowsy he raised his head and blinked tiredly. “Oh yeah, our surprise journey. Is it that early already? It feels as if I had just fallen asleep”.

“Yeah, it still is night and I as well would have loved to sleep a bit longer. However, once more it looks as if the peaceful times were about to change for us and this time it will not be a little skirmish only as it was the last few times”.

“You call those fights a skirmish?”

“Hmm, compared to what I expect to happen when Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer steps in, – then certainly yes. You see, – Torgos was just an ill minded though powerful mage who has tormented and killed hundreds to achieve his own goals.

The Northman with the countless Orontai and Oqualorak were fierce but they as well had limited resources because they depended on the powers that Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer had deemed fit to release. This time, however, we face the one who wields those powers and trust me; I have no illusions if you ask me if he will make use of his talents at every turn of that battle”.

For a moment, the Guardian of the Islands was quiet.

“Considering your experiences, I have to agree, – that will be no skirmish. Do you think that we have any chances at all?”

Now it was upon Enyana to keep quiet for a moment ere she answered.

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“Well, – considering that we are supposed to know already that something is heading our way, which still gives us some time to prepare, taking further into account our fighting experience and fighting power, hoping that the forces behind the Palantir are very interested that we shall prevail, – yeah, – then we might have a slim chance.

Nevertheless, we shall not forget that Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer has resources beyond our imagination and if we trust our assumption that he has somehow been the reason that a few thousand years ago something has changed profoundly, then he has no other choice than throwing all he can muster against us or else he will loose whatever he once had achieved”.

“Wow. – I had well enough realised that something is going to happen but that it would be that severe, – I had not anticipated”.

“Yup, – that will not be as easy as winking my friend”.

Enyana concluded whilst she slipped into her long shafted boots and began to shrink.

“Hmm yeah, – that works better than I had expected”, she grinned whilst something buzzed on top of Ddraig’s head and landed between his ears.

“How nice, – now you look as if you were my grownup sister”, Norhidayu chuckled sweetly. “Don’t forget that we need something to hold onto. Since none of us should use any of our powers, we have to have something that keeps us safely on Ddraig’s back”.

Enyana nodded, “Thank you Norhidayu, I truly would have forgotten about that. It is difficult to think about all those nitty-gritty things that you don’t need if you can use your -9-

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powers”, she chuckled and asked one of the guards for a length of solid rope.

As soon as the guard returned with a coil of finest rope, she thanked him and together they walked through the side door that led to a narrow aisle and directly through a concealed door behind the densely growing creepers that grew all over the pergolas in the roof garden.

The air was chill and the moon had almost ended his journey. Despite the fact that it was that time of the day when every living soul was supposed to be asleep, Enyana, Norhidayu and Ddraig strained their senses to find out if there was any mind lurking that could watch Ddraig taking off, but all was quiet. Even the two guards below and behind the solid doors of the realm were not awake.

They slowly scanned all directions and even the ground as deep as their senses allowed it without using their powers but there was naught. Enyana and Norhidayu mounted Ddraig’s broad back and Enyana slung the rope in such way around his neck that she could widen the noose as soon as he would grow back to his normal size.

“That feels queer. I never had a necklace with two such beautiful pendants”, he chuckled and worked his wings. One moment later he was airborne and Enyana added her night vision capabilities to Ddraig’s acute night sight whilst Norhidayu strained her senses to find out if anything was following or had taken notice.

“That almost looks as if I was flying in broad daylight. Only the colours are a bit odd”. Ddraig’s mind conveyed cheerfully to his Desh’iriai whilst he veered southwards and followed the valley to Lake Connawain.

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Despite his relatively small figure he made good progress and after he had crossed the Tylesion River, they decided that once they had reached the area above the foothills of the Sheafwood Forest Ridge, Ddraig could grow back to his normal size and therewith would reach Willowbee with the first light of the new day.  Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer had returned to his private retreat and changed from pure energy to the shape of a sizable human being, something that he always had liked despite the fact that he looked – so to say somewhat over proportional.

His mind pondered the information that he had gathered sporadically about the ‘White Powers’ growing on the lands above and what next steps were to be taken. Now, since he had chased Tokolosh and his host out of his realm he could take care of his own plans.

Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer was well aware that he could have cut-off Tokolosh’s powers but that was part of his plan and he knew that Torgos’s body had suffered bad damages. If he really would survive, then only if Tokolosh would use his talents wisely and perhaps he could make use of him once more.

So far, the demon had served well enough to keep those ‘White Powers’ occupied, which still would give him time enough to prepare for the all deciding move to solidify his achievements and if his ally Torgos had not worked that sloppy, nothing of what was burdening him now would ever have had the chance to develop.

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they had dropped them behind the rockslide. Had Torgos still plans of his own? Had he perhaps already learnt about his secret in the mountains? Had Torgos had the intention to use his knowledge against him?

“What a ridiculous idea that would be”, he thought and fondled the black hair on his chin.

He sat in his favoured place, a large Druse in the shape of an over dimensional egg, which was cut open that one could seat in it and in the light of the everlasting flames, the purple crystals sparkled all around his body and head. His right hand with the missing ring finger that for whatever reason he was not able to replace, was wedged under his chin and he kept on thinking.

Why had his ally of the time when their big plan was carried out not destroyed everything as he had promised? Why had he missed so many things that dropped now one by one into his lap? What else was missed that one fine day would blowup right into his face?

Those thoughts were something that bothered him not only a little and of late, the events that were unfolding in the world above due to that heedlessness had occupied his mind for quite some time.

If he was going to rectify all those things he seriously should consider asking for higher rewards than he had negotiated.

On the other hand, he had received all those worlds and realities besides the only one that ‘He’ had claimed for himself whilst he in turn had lost one of those places due to his own mistake.

If not for that moron who had cut-off his ring finger including the one ring that had controlled all the others, - 12 -

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which eventually was destroyed by that freak creature, he would have been Master of that world long time ago and now, – now he could not even return to this reality without using the powers that were ensnared in one of the other rings that he had managed to get hold of. However, what were all those worlds and realities compared to the one that ‘He’ had demanded.

As often before, his mind was running in circles and despite the fact that he had gladly accepted the offer that the ‘One’ had made thousands of years ago, he felt betrayed. However, that was something he always felt, much the same way as Torgos had always felt that anyone else was the reason that some of his deeds had gone wrong.

Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer must have forgotten or ignored the fact that at that point of time, the world that the ‘One’ had claimed for himself had not been much different from any other reality. The only difference was that he, – Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer, – was by far not as successful as his ally.

“That has to change”, he shouted as if he had to confirm it to himself and changed back to pure energy, resolving to make it work this time. His elite forces would not fail him, they never had and he vanished to one of the deepest places of this realm where those he had summoned were gathering at his command.  Elensaár woke from a noise in the large room and turned around. “Hmm, where…, – oh yeah, – they should be near Willowbee by now”, he thought and connected to Enyana.

“Good morning dear friends, how are you doing? Have you had a pleasant and undisturbed journey?” he asked still a bit sleepy.

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“Good morning Desh’nerain. We are fine. – Have you slept well?”

Enyana asked whilst Ddraig flew just over the point named ‘Three Oak Crossing’.

“Yeah, not too bad after all and I just had figured out that the place at my side was empty”, his mind chuckled.

“Well, that cannot be helped at the moment”, her mind giggled.

“We are approaching Crumbleton and in a short while we will be in Willowbee. The first light is heralding the new day. Just the right time for having a hearty breakfast. Once I am at my seanmhair’s place, I will connect to you”.

“That’s fine. Please send my regards to our friends”, he thought and a smile played around his eyes as he got up.

Some noises in the large room gave account that the others were gathering and a short while later he joined the group that had found places at the large table, which was already set for breakfast.

“Good morning, have you had a good rest?” he asked and unison nodding heads confirmed that the red wine they had consumed the last evening had worked well enough to calm their agitated minds.

“Have you any idea how our friends are faring?” Irefĕnia asked, supported by the curiously looking eyes of Zaron, Rasmus, Olnir and Fullangr who had joined as well.

“Yeah, I just spoke to Enyana and by now they should have arrived in Willowbee. In a short while she will let me know more. However, we should get on with our breakfast and then it would be wise to use the time we still have to decide what kind of arrangements we have to make and what has to

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be prepared. Fullangr, would you please ask Ráðspakr to join our counsel?”

“Yes Elensaár, don’t worry. This morning I have met him already and he is inviting all those who will be needed in that counsel because he has taken your advice quite seriously”.

“That’s good. Olnir, I suggest that once we have had our breakfast, you should vanish for a short while because if others will come along with Ráðspakr, then we have to ensure that only the right people will know that you have already returned and perhaps it would be good to tell them in a gentle manner what has happen. For the time being, we have to maintain the thoughts of worries and uncertainty about your wellbeing, even if it displeases me to make such moves”.

Olnir nodded and they discussed for a short while what had to be done until it knocked at the door. Olnir retreated into the chamber he had spent the night and the guard opened to let Ráðspakr and a group of dwarfs, which included most of the riddle masters, into the room that not one of them had known to exist.

All too naturally, the dwarfs were very surprised about the unusual setting of this place and especially wondered that apparently, everything here was created for human sized beings and not for dwarfs.

After the surprise had subsided and Elensaár had briefed them that certain developments called for such clandestine meeting, he addressed the issue of Olnir’s disappearance.

“Well, it is not a move that I like very much but once you all have learnt about the reason, you will understand why we

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had to take this precaution”, and his mind asked Ráðspakr, “Will it be fine to ask Olnir to appear?”

The gnarled face of the Clan Chief changed to a grin and he nodded consentingly.

“My friend, – this is your moment”, he said in Olnir’s mind, who appeared one moment later from his chamber and his unexpected appearance caused quite a commotion.

“What is that? Where have you old rascal been? We were so worried about you?” Fjosviðor shouted with his droning voice, supported by many of the other dwarfs who looked at the seasoned dwarf as if he had just dropped from the sky.

After the first surprise had subsided, Elensaár’s voice called for attention.

“Dear friends, I do well understand your surprise and curiosity. I am sure that Olnir would love to tell his adventure in all details but unfortunately, time is of essence and story telling has to wait. Please Olnir have a seat and give a brief account of what you have experienced that all your friends are posted”.

Despite the fact that Fullangr’s grandfather was bursting to tell his tale in all colours, he understood well enough that he had to restrain himself for the moment. Hence, he delivered a truly concise account that did not mention Bávorr and the role he had played at all, which earned him a relieved look from Ráðspakr who was patting his arm.

“Thank you old friend”, he said thankfully nodding, but only those who knew the painful truth about Bávorr were aware what the Clan Chief had actually meant.

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Elensaár looked at Fullangr’s grandfather, “Thank you Olnir – that was to the point. The conclusions we have drawn are simple yet manifold.

Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer found out that he has lost a dwarf and was not lenient to Torgos and his guest Tokolosh.

However, those two are not much of our concern and if we take into account what has happened in the past, then something will unfold that touches anyone’s life in this world.

I am very pleased to see all our riddle masters assembled, because that makes my duty much easier and for those who have not learnt about certain developments, I give you my permission to brief your friends about those facts that could be helpful to understand the entire situation.

Let me just say that much for you all to understand what we have to expect and why.

A few thousand years ago, at least Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer must have been involved in something that had changed the world as we know it and we are still living in that changed world. We do not know how it was before but since the development must have pleased him, we assume that it was different and presumably much better and friendlier than it is now.

Since Enyana was born, things have changed comparatively swift and as most of you know, not only the ‘Trinity’ but also the ‘Seekers of Verity’, or as we call it the ‘Companionship of Seekers’ was formed. The old alliance between our races was re-established and we were set onto a quest that chiefly due to Olnir’s experiences of the past was steered towards something that seems to displease the ruler of the worlds below.

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Hence, he has tried to silence the only mind that could recall a place that he needs to keep hidden, which was Olnir and if our assumptions are right, then all that will lead us to something that might be detrimental to his achievements in the past. Something that must be worthwhile to risk everything. Well, ask yourself what you would expect in that case to happen.

We can be more than sure that he will not quietly watch how we possibly undo all what he obviously has achieved. That assumption leads us directly to the point of our meeting.

Firstly, we need to keep Olnir in this place that was created by our ancestors for exactly the purpose to hide the powers and traces of capable minds away. That is why that place is shielded and apparently, someone had good use for that before.

Neither Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer nor Torgos and his ‘Guest’ shall find out too early that Olnir has already and especially safely returned, nor shall they know where we are because we are the servants of the ‘White Powers’ and we are the ones who pose true danger to him and his achievements if we find out what Olnir has discovered.

That lastly boils down to very serious matters because now, he will not rely on some of his servants to deal with us. – This time, – he has no other alternatives than to join the fray himself, which means, – he, – the one who wields powers that not even we are aware of will take charge and we will have to face him. He has to prevail at all cost or else, – all what he has once achieved will be lost and that is an idea that will not please him at all.

Here the elven lord took a break in his long speech and looked into the very concerned faces.

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Fjosviðor, the blacksmith of the realm got up and asked.

“Sire, I think that I have well understood what you have said and I agree with your view that the ruler of the worlds below has no other choices than to act. Well, we know that we are somehow involved because of the old alliance and due to the fact that our friend Olnir had made all those discoveries.

Don’t you think it would be sufficient if we barricade ourselves in our realm and wait for what he throws at us?

As far as I know, never ever before has anyone been able to penetrate the walls and doors of Yamen’ Grotha Naugrim and once he slacks in his attention because he thinks that you all had truly vanished, – we could make our move”.

Elensaár shook slowly his head but ere he was able to answer, Ráðspakr got up.

“My good friend Fjosviðor, I know that despite the fact that you are our black and weapon smith, you are a very thoughtful and peaceful dwarf but that is not a matter that concerns the Pjόðroerir only. This matter concerns the whole world but it will take place right here on Crossbow Isle and on our doorstep. There is no hiding and the last place that will be secure is our realm. Please Lord Elensaár; tell him about our findings below the inhabited areas of Yamen’ Grotha Naugrim”.

A bit wondering, not only Fjosviðor looked at him.

“Hmm, I could not agree more with Ráðspakr’s words”, Elensaár stated and gave a report about the findings of the search parties that had explored the hidden and forbidden areas below Yamen’ Grotha Naugrim.

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One could see that they were shocked about that revelation.

Just imagining that only a few yards of rock and a sliding door was all that separated their realm from the creatures of the worlds below. – That was more than appalling tidings.

“Don’t you think it would be wise in this case to ask Mótsognir if he would take charge of the preparations needed? We know that he saw more than a fair share of confrontations and battles in his long life and that his health is not in the best of conditions but his mind is keen and if anyone of us knows what to do then – it is him”, Fullangr proposed.

For a moment, Ráðspakr looked at him and then nodded.

“Yes Fullangr, you are absolutely right. If anyone knows how to deal with what is heading our way then it is Mótsognir”.

He asked one of the older dwarfs who had come with the riddle masters to find the old warrior and invite him to join the counsel.  The sun was just scrambling over the horizon as Ddraig switched to flying on the strings of air, drew one wide circle above the village and hovered down to his usual place in Morgan’s garden where this time no ‘waterfall tent’ waited to be crushed. No matter how early it was, his arrival was not unheeded and Liam wondered that Ddraig and someone on his back was arriving that early.

“Hmm, that is unusual and perhaps something has happened that requires our help”, he mused to himself and walked slowly to Morgan’s house to give the huge dragon and his passenger time enough to land. As he opened the garden door he heard from around the corner Enyana and Morgan’s - 20 -

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voice as they greeted each other whilst a childlike voice mingled with the deep one of the dragon. “…hence we have decided that we fly down to Willowbee to inform our friends and… oh, – hullo good morning Liam.

Have you smelled our arrival or is it mere coincidence that you are already on your legs?” Enyana asked smiling.

“Good morning dear friends. I cannot say if that is coincidence but as you know, I always was an early bird and as I saw Ddraig flying over our village with a person along for the ride, I thought you might require some help. It surely is rather unusual that anyone of you arrives that early.

Especially not in flying style, – right?” he smirked.

“Yes Liam, you are right on the spot with your guess and I am glad that you have come. Seanmhair, can we all including Ddraig go into the house and have some breakfast? First of all we should not stay longer in the open than absolutely necessary and secondly we all feel quite cold because Ddraig could not use his protective shield to keep us warm and since we have started very early, we are very tired, hungry and especially thirsty”.

“Of course my dear. Ddraig, can you manage to reduce your size to fit into my kitchen or drawing room?” Morgan asked whilst Norhidayu settled on her shoulder and snuggled herself into a curtain of burgundy red hair that felt so nicely warm.

“Let me see how much I can shrink today”, the rascally dragon giggled and began to shrink until he was not much larger than Gandalf.

Enyana looked at Liam, “I will tell you all that is needed during breakfast and you Liam might want to get Jake to join - 21 -

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our ‘family’ counsel”. The old blacksmith nodded and turned to the door that was just opened from the outside by Morrigan. After a surprised remark and a quick greeting, Morgan and Morrigan set the table for breakfast.

Meanwhile Enyana had settled in the large armchair in front of the fireplace and closed her eyes. “Hullo my dear. We just arrived and in a few moments I will hold a short counsel with my seanmhair, Liam and Jake. I want to inform them about everything that has cropped up that they can prepare our people for all we expect to happen because this time, Menomenta and therewith Willowbee will surely be in the focus point of Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer’s actions”.

“Yes my dear that has to be expected and it would be good if everyone was alert. We are just expecting all the relevant people for our council and later I will let you know about the outcome”, Elensaár replied as Ddraig’s voice remarked.

“Enyana what do you think about proposing that all children of Willowbee, Caradoc Castle, and Yamen’ Grotha Naugrim should be brought to Rialian Yldannan? Would it not be good if they were all out of harms way that their parents do not have to worry? I am pretty sure that Rialian Yldannan will be the only place that can be called secure as long as all entrances are sealed”.

“Very well thought my friend. I had considered that for Willowbee but you are right, all children should be protected and the only place will be Rialian Yldannan, – that’s right”, Enyana replied.

“Yes I agree with both of you and I will suggest that move to Ráðspakr during the counsel. I think it will also be a suitable task for the younger elves and fairies. That way the children will be taken care of and with only one or two retired elves they can be kept at bay. Yeah, that’s truly a good idea and I would feel much better as well”.

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Enyana had just ended the mind conversation between the Trinity as the door opened and Liam returned with Jake in tow.

Once the usual greeting rituals were accomplished, they took their places around the table whilst Morrigan filled the mugs with steaming black coffee. Now Enyana gave account about the events of the last few days, reported about the conclusions that were drawn and told about what they expect to happen for Willowbee, Crumbleton and the entire area within the larger perimeter of Menomenta. “… and considering all I have told you, I suggest that you hold a village counsel, invite Erlina and Drew and prepare as you have done in the past. As soon as we know more about what might come we will let you know. However, for the moment we have to avoid conveying messages as we usually do because we thought it is necessary to keep Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer at a loss of our whereabouts.

During this confrontation, we expect that one of the main targets will be here in and around Willowbee because Menomenta will definitely be one of the places that he surely will try to destroy for reasons still unknown to us. You remember all the fireballs that Torgos had sent down to this area, – and Liam, – you had thought they had accidentally slipped over the village?” Liam who had listened attentively nodded.

“Well, – that was no accident at all, – that was right on target. One thing is for certain, this time we will have to reckon with visitors that are anything but pleasant.

I just had counselled with Elensaár and Ddraig and Ddraig proposed to bring all children to the safety of Rialian - 23 -

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Yldannan, hence it would be good if Norhidayu would ask Queen Deirdre if she agrees”.

“Enyana, I don’t think that she will disagree at all. Since the old days it always were the children we were concerned about since they are the future of this land and only if they are prepared for accepting the duties of life, the world would advance. On the other hand, she knows you well enough that you would feel much better if they were out of harms way”.

Norhidayu stated.

“Yes my dear you are right, she surely knows us well enough.

Please tell her also that she has to contact Queen Nooriaty to let our villagers know that it might be good to bring the smaller children of ‘Ddraig’s Swell’ to Rialian Yldannan, because our guesses include also an attack on Ai Seler’ en’ Tolea’Fuin. Not that it seems to be as important as Menomenta but it is an Elven Island and much more exposed and therewith much more vulnerable than Rialian Yldannan whose existence or exact location might thanks to the protective shielding not even be known to Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer”.

The little elven nodded and sipped the warm coffee from a small cup.

“Those are serious tidings my dear, indeed. As you had arrived so early and unheralded I had expected that something unforeseen had developed but I had not reckoned that it would be as awful as you told us”, Morgan confessed with a worried look.

“Well, neither had anyone of us expected that we were forced again to defend our people and our island. However, somehow I have a feeling as if this could truly be the alldeciding confrontation because as I told you earlier we are - 24 -

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sure that Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer will be the one we have to defeat. The only thing that is not quite clear to me yet is, – if it truly were only his doings that a few thousand years ago something in this world must have changed so dramatically or if there is more to it than even we are aware of”.

“Why? Do you expect even worse things to come?”

“Hmm actually that is more a notion I have than it is certainty. However, for at least one obvious reason I cannot believe that it was only he who has accomplished whatever it was that must have changed our world and that point is his evident limitation to live on the upper worlds.

That makes it at least questionable if he was able to destroy that planet that we have seen in the Corracloona Constellation and to change the memories of everything and every being that had lived at that time.

That ability is so powerful and rare that not even Zaron has ever heard of it. On the other hand it raises the question if Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer has or had really that power, then why would he not simply use it again and erase the memories of everything that exists right now? That way he would not have had to use Torgos, Oqualorak or anything else to solve that matter. Isn’t it?”

Morgan nodded contemplatively whilst Liam and Jake looked a bit lost. “Yes my dear, what you say makes very much sense and would explain a lot of those events that have taken place. On the other hand, – that makes me fear very much what else could head our way if even our ancestors had not been able to cope with that peril”.

“Yeah seanmhair that is quite a question”, and with a look at Liam and Jake, Enyana remarked, “I am sorry, those were - 25 -

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merely thoughts of mine and you should not heed them much”.

“It sounded very right to me what you said my dear and you really want us to disregard that?” Jake asked worried.

“Jake, – if I am right or not, – I cannot say since it is just a notion of mine, even if it might be the truth. Yes, please disregard it in the sense that whatever comes beyond our capabilities, – we most likely will not be able to influence it at any rate. If that shall come to pass, then we might lose all that is. If you take in consideration what we have learnt in Corracloona, then millions of people have not only lost their lives but an entire world was destroyed and that my friend, – that is something I do not even want to think about”.

Liam and Jake looked at her with wide-open eyes, “I can see that you are serious about that and that makes the blood curdle in my veins. I never had thought that anything could be that severe, leave alone actually destroying an entire world. And there would be nothing we could do?” Liam asked.

“What shall I say Liam? All what I mentioned are assumptions, but I have to agree, rather logical hypothesises, which could render that notion of mine considerably true.

However, it would be fatal and unwise to assume that all we are doing would be anyway in vain. Therefore, I ask you both to keep those notions in the back of your mind and just analyse whatever happens under the light of those ideas.

To become early enough aware of any development might give use the time to take appropriate countermeasures that our ancestors perhaps have not had. One more thing you have to bear in mind, – no matter how bad things have gone long time ago, – if those beings, who had apparently - 26 -

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influenced all what happened to anyone of us during the last couple of years, had no hope that we were able to change anything, they would not have made those efforts. Isn’t it?”

For some time it was quiet in the room and all eyes rested on the lovely face of the young woman who had since the early days if her childhood carried more burdens than most people had to cope with during their entire lifetime but it was Ddraig who broke the silence that had followed her words.

“Enyana is right. There must have been events in the past that had changed everything in this world but we were entrusted with the task to set something right that had obviously gone wrong. That might be the reason that Enyana was born at a certain point in time and just early enough ere I was supposed to hatch after a very long time. All things were falling into place and now we are bound to change what had gone wrong.

Just consider that those changes were in favour of Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer, then we can assume that this world will turn out to be even more beautiful than it currently is and that shall give us the powers and hope that we need to prevail. I daresay, – that is a point that is worthwhile to risk my life for it”.

“Yeah, Ddraig – that is true and we all will stand at your side as we have ever done since you came into our midst”. Liam said resolutely and bowed his head to his friends.

“Come on Jake, we have a village and many more people to inform that once more the time of quiet and peace has come to an end and that it might this time be for the lasting betterment of everyone”.

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Jake nodded and got up. “Yeah, Liam is right. Whatever comes, we will stand at your side and Ddraig is right as well, if your assumptions are true and if things might change for betterment and lasting peace, – yeah, – then it is worthwhile to give my life if it had to be”, and with these last words he followed Liam through the door.  The sun had risen above the eastern mountains and filled the narrow valley with bright light that seemed to penetrate also Torgos mind. Suddenly and with an excruciating cry his body tensed and arched like a bow as his waking mind began to feel the pain that deep unconsciousness had suppressed for hours. Right after that spasm, pain had overwhelmed Torgos mind again and it drifted back into the state of oblivion.

Tokolosh had expected that something like that would happen and since it was clear to him that his host would only survive with food, water and at least the simplest possible care, he had searched Torgos’s memories of the more recent past to find out if there was any place near enough where he could bring his body unheeded.

He knew, the early afternoon sun would fall under the recess and it would become mercilessly hot.

It had taken time until he had found what he had searched in the hate choked mind of the former mage. Hatred had clouded all his memories and as he had glanced through the older sections of those memories he realised what kind of species his host was. He truly was a masterpiece of malice and represented one of the worst examples that human nature was able to create.

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Nevertheless, he had found out about a place that was less than two leagues away and promised to have fresh water from the brook, shelter in the ruined houses and there should still be some food that he saw Torgos storing in one of the fireplaces.

Not wasting any time, he hovered the body out of its hiding place and along the brook that eventually would pass by the ruined farm that he saw in Torgos’s mind.

It was hot and he could feel that the increasing heat was draining the strength of his host; hence, he just submerged the whole body for a moment in the waters of the brook ere he continued his way. If anyone had seen a limp body ‘floating’ downhill on thin air like a log in a river, he might have run for his life.

It took about half an hour until he beheld through Torgos’s left eye the ruins on the right side of the little stream and swiftly steered the body right into the remains of the house where he searched for the fireplace that he saw in Torgos’s mind.

It took only a moment until he found it, up-righted Torgos’s body and guided the left hand into the cavity under a stone from where he pulled a little bag. A closer inspection revealed grains and seeds and a short while later he had managed with that body to fill an old black pot with water from the brook and had added some seeds. Now he placed the pot between the blackened stones of the fireplace, which were well lit and hot from the sun ere he laid Torgos body under the sheltering remnants of the roof.

It would take time ere the water would be warm enough to soften those grains but that was all he could do for the time - 29 -

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being. As long as he could keep Torgos alive, there was still a chance for both of them.  Whilst one member of the riddle masters was searching for Mótsognir, Elensaár used the time to brief Ráðspakr about Enyana and Ddraig’s suggestion to bring the children out of harms way and after a moment of pondering, the Clan Chief looked at him with a half wondering and half-admiring expression.

“That is very thoughtful and seems to be fairly typical of all of you. It always is your concern how your friends and their kin are faring and I am very glad that it is that way. It makes me feel even happier to convey your suggestion to our people and they will proudly stand at your side. I am sure they will see it your way and accept your thoughtful offer”.

They briefly discussed how the many children could be transported that far away and Elensaár explained that it would be done in elven style and that nothing needed to be taken along. He told the Clan Head also about his thoughts that in one or two days time, the shroud of secrecy concerning their whereabouts had to be lifted anyway because then, so he reckoned, Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer would make his first moves. Ráðspakr looked surprised at the elven lord but before he could ask if Elensaár really expected an attack that soon, the door opened and the old riddle master returned, followed by a much older looking dwarf.

However, that dwarf, – no matter how old he might have been, – certainly ‘dwarfed’ the dwarfs around him not only by his impressive appearance but also by the kind of natural authority he radiated.

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No doubt that he was still a dwarf as his bodily features gave account, – no matter that his left arm was chopped off right above his elbow, – no matter that at least the visible part of his face was marred with dark scars that mingled with the deep ruts that time had carved into it, – he was PRESENT. He stood as prominent as a beacon behind the entrance of the room and his eyes run swiftly over the queer interior ere he looked at the clan head of the Pjόðroerir and said with deep growling voice, “Hail my friend Ráðspakr, I guess the peaceful times are over or else you would not have sent for me”.

“Hail old friend and yes. Unfortunately, – you are right.

Matters have taken shape that no one of us had thought possible and especially not that it would be our clan who has become deeply involved without even knowing that we were concerned with that matter at all. Please have a seat and Grand Lord Elensaár shall brief you”.

Zaron had studied the gnarled face and somehow felt that despite the traces of hundreds of years it looked familiar, hence he opened the conversation.

“Please don’t take it wrongly if I interfere but you look much alike a dwarf that I knew a long time ago and if my memories do not fail me then that must have been more than fivehundred years ago. If I am not mistaken then the fellows name was Hildir, Herkir, Hrimnir, or something like that.

Does that say something to you?”

“Yes, – it tells me that you must be very old, that you have an amazing memory for faces and names, and that you are quite right. I had almost forgotten that a very long time ago I was indeed known as Herkir. Forgive me that my memory is not as good as yours. – Who are you and how do you know - 31 -

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that name? I don’t think that anyone of our clan remembers those times, let alone that name”.

Astounded faces followed that brief conversation as Zaron introduced himself.

“Well I am commonly known as Zaron, son of Hellos but there are other names by which I am addressed in other places. However, since eons the people on Crossbow Isle have known me by this name. Does that sound familiar to you?”

“Though I have not heard your name for a very long time, but – yes indeed it does. If you don’t mind, I would love to talk to you once we have taken care of the more urgent matters that seem to allow no further delay”, and with the last words he had taken place and Elensaár gave once more a concise account of what had happened and especially what had to be expected.

Rasmus, who sat quietly but listening beside a not lesserquiet Irefĕnia leaned in to her and whispered, “Isn’t it amazing what we are allowed to witness?”

“Why? What are you referring to in particular?”

“Well, according to Morgan’s guesses I am around thirtyseven to forty-one years of age and since a while I had considered coming so to say into the ‘ages’ but listening to the two has reminded me very much that in comparison to those people I have to consider myself merely as a toddler or at least a very young lad”.

Irefĕnia looked at him and grinned, “Hmm, you are truly right if I see it from my point of view because as I was

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pondering the ultimate question, Enyana reminded me that I as well are not anymore as young as I felt”.

“Don’t say that you are so much older than I am, that would be too much. As long as I have known you, you always were the little rascally elven that looked not much older than about fifteen to twenty years. On the other hand, you might be right. Enyana has told me often enough that your race is immortal and that age does not play a role for you and your appearance”, Rasmus whispered.

“Yes my friend, Enyana was right. However, in terms of elven age I am still considered very young”.

“I know, a man should not ask any woman that question but please forgive me, – how old are you?”

“You are right. A man should never ask such questions”, Irefĕnia chuckled. “But since you are my dear friend and asked so genuinely I will satisfy your curiosity, – I am a bit above eighteen hundred years old, – are you now satisfied or disappointed?”

“Hmm, Enyana was right. Age does not play any role for elves and I am feeling truly like a toddler amongst all those aged and wise people”, the tinkerer mused grinning and turned his attention back to the table where Elensaár was just concluding his report.

Whilst Elensaár had given his account, Mótsognir had not interrupted him but had nodded acknowledging at the conclusions and now he nodded resolute and looked around.

“Hmm, that will be a tough call I say. We should immediately call a muster and I will see what Fjosviðor has in stock. We need all our people ready by noon where I want to - 33 -

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see them in the great hall. Fjosviðor please come, I would like to see what you have and we shall identify what we need”.

With the last words he had got up, followed by Fjosviðor, dipped his head and left the room.

“Was that all? Doesn’t he have any questions to ask?”

Rasmus asked wondering.

“Would we have any answers to give?” Irefĕnia answered with a seriously meant question and looked at Elensaár who shook silently his head.

Ráðspakr gave the orders for the muster and then he turned to Elensaár, “There is one more matter that I have to address. You might not know about that but actually there is one more clan living on Crossbow Isle of which you may never have heard as of yet, – they are named Eikinskjaldi and even if you may not know them, Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer might be aware of their existence and I trust that he will not make any difference between anyone living on Crossbow Isle. What do you think?”

“Are you saying there is another clan of dwarfs living on Crossbow Isle and that we were not aware of them?”

Elensaár asked wondering.

“Yes, it looks like that. Actually, they were not a large clan, and they are no real dwarfs either. They are nice and friendly people and we have had good contacts for as long as they had dwelled in the mountains but then a couple of hundred years ago they had moved away to a realm they call ‘Gundu Gabilgathol’ in the Western Cliffside of Crossbow Isle and since then, we had not heard much about them anymore. We

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know that they are faring the seas and farming the lands above but that is actually all we know for sure”.

“No dwarfs you say they are?”

“Yes, – they are no dwarfs but they are not taller than we are, just differently built. As far as I know they were not aware where they had come from since they had much less written evidence of their origin than we have preserved. It seemed to be similar to many things that their traces had just appeared long time ago and no one had kept any known records that would explain where their forefathers had dwelled or where they had come from”.

“Hmm, that is queer and you are right. We have to let them know what is brewing or else they might find themselves drawn into a confrontation of which they had no knowledge that it was coming upon them”, Elensaár concluded.

Zaron had listened and proposed, “I agree, – that is a queer thing because even I had actually no idea that another race is living on this island. The further that matter unfolds the queerer it turns out to be.

Isn’t this island really a remarkable place?

First, for countless years I had known about the elves and the human beings living on our island. Then not so long ago, a second elven race from lands far away had come into the picture, followed not much later by the race of the dwarfs and recently we had so to say accidentally discovered that the race of the Onodrim was living here as well.

Now you are telling us that there is another race of which we do not even know what they are. All of that is crowned by

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our good friend Ddraig of whom no one would have even believed that such a being could actually exist at all.

Lastly, we were attacked by Orontai and the creature Oqualorak, not to mention the host of nameless creatures from the places we call the ‘Worlds below’. What else is to come I ask?” he summarised smiling the queer coincidences that had happen since Enyana had come to help her seanmhair, – if that was the true reason.

They all had listened and Ráðspakr nodded agreeing. “Yes Zaron, that truly is remarkable by itself and you are not the only one who is wondering about that. However, as I said, it would be good if we could let the Eikinskjaldi know what is about to come.

Their place lies quite a distance away and even our best runners would need at least four to five days to reach their realm. – Is there any way that we could shorten that time? I am afraid that this time running will not be sufficiently fast to avoid any bad surprises”.

Elensaár looked at him and nodded, “Yes my friend, you are right but whatever is needed, for the moment we should not act from here. Do you have two fast runners amongst your people?”

“Yes of course we have and they are witty too. Do you want to see them now and here or wouldn’t it be more advisable to meet elsewhere?”

“You are right. I will go to the roof garden where we shall meet and I will ask Ddraig to take them from that place.

That way, there will be no activities to be read in Yamen’ Grotha Naugrim. Do you have someone who knows the area

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near the Eikinskjaldi realm who could sufficiently describe a landmark?”

“Hmm, let me find that out”, Ráðspakr said and raised his voice. “Dear friends, is anyone here who knows the places around the Eikinskjaldi realm or knows at least someone who does?”

The murmuring of voices that had ceased as he had called for attention doubled from one moment to the other but only one of the riddle masters believed that a friend of his was familiar with that area.

“Well then, please find for your friend and you Faror, please go and find for Gustr and Varr. Send them all to the roof garden and let us know once they have arrived”.

Faror and his friend vanished and Elensaár took the time to connect to Enyana and Ddraig whilst he walked through the narrow aisle to the garden.

“Hullo dear friends, how are you faring?” his mind asked.

“Oh Elensaár, that is nice that you connect”, Ddraig’s mind replied. “Wait for a short while until Enyana has given the last instructions and then we can confer. She just discusses with Liam, Jake, Norhidayu and Morgan what needs to be done and then we shall head for Caradoc Castle”.

“That is good because I truly believe that time is of essence”.

It took only a short while until Enyana’s voice appeared in his mind.

“Hullo Elensaár, sorry that I did not answer immediately but we just had concluded what has to be done. How was it going on your side?”

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“What to say, – it was a somewhat revealing morning”, his mind answered.

“Why? Anything new that has cropped up?”

“Yeah, you could say that because we just learnt that there is actually another race living on Crossbow Isle, which is reasonably well known to the Pjόðroerir but according to their assessment they are not dwarfs and as usually, no one of us had ever heard of them at all, not even Zaron.

Stunning enough?”

For a moment, neither Enyana nor Ddraig were able to answer. “Another race you say? Hihihihi, that island is truly a crucible, – isn’t it?” Ddraig’s mind laughed and Enyana added, “Yup, – that is the right answer. So what are they and where are they?”

“Well, Ráðspakr said that they are living somewhere in the high cliffs of the west coast but presently they try to find someone who is familiar with that area and that is one of the reasons that I connected to you.

Ráðspakr has sent for two runners to meet me in a short while here in the Roof Garden and hopefully with someone who knows that area sufficiently well that Ddraig’s mind can venture to that place and bring the two runners to that position. That way there will be no traces of mind activities here in Yamen’ Grotha Naugrim and those dwarfs may reach the Eikinskjaldi ere something unwanted is heading their way”.

“Yeah, that’s a good idea. When do you think we can lift the cloak from our whereabouts?” Enyana asked.

“I would like that to happen as late as possible. The longer Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer is not aware where we actually are, the better for us.

We assume that he has to strike soon or else we might find out what he is trying to hide. We have to prepare for an attack as quickly as possible and I would not wonder if that would happen not only in one place.

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Well, here they are. Ddraig, I will connect to you in a moment. Try to read their minds as swiftly as possible”.

True enough, the door that closed the stairway from the ‘Great Hall’ to the garden had opened and Faror came with two young looking dwarf lads towards Elensaár. A quick look revealed that they were comparatively tall and slender with longer legs, which promised that they were able to cover distances rather fast.

“Grand Lord Elensaár, these are Gustr and Varr our best runners. I briefed them what we expect them to do and promised that you would ensure that they reach the Eikinskjaldi the fastest possible way”, he grinned, remembering well enough his own experiences during the map-making exercise whilst Gustr and Varr bowed reverentially.

Elensaár told them once again what he expected as Zaron appeared from the alley with the hidden door.

“Hullo young lads. You are our couriers to the Eikinskjaldi, that’s fine”. He reached into one of his deep pockets to retrieve one of the pebbles to hand it to Varr. A bit wondering he dipped his head to thank the Druid but one could see it in their faces that they had not the slightest clue for what that little stone should be good for.

“Don’t wonder. The same way as you, no one will know anything about it than ignoring it or throwing it away.

However, as common as it looks, to you it will be the means to connect to us. Take it into your hands and think about me and I will know that you want to tell us something”, and the next moment they heard Zaron’s voice in their minds.

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“You see, that is what I meant. So don’t be afraid if you hear my, Lady Enyana, or Lord Elensaár’s voice in your mind when you do as I asked you”, his mind said whilst he was quietly smiling at the two bamboozled looking faces.

Before they could voice out their surprises, the door opened again and the other riddle master appeared with a dwarven lass in tow.

“Grand Lord Elensaár, Lord Zaron, this is Balarka, daughter of Bazaad. As she was a little lass she had visited the Eikinskjaldi with her father and she said that she knows a place nearby that she can remember well. Will that be good enough? Otherwise we are in a bit of trouble because her father has passed on quite a while ago and none of the younger ones has ever been in that area at all”.

“Balarka is your name, how unusual and nice a name that is”.

Elensaár said gently and looked into the hazelnut brown eyes of the young dwarven.

“Please, do me a favour. Close your eyes and think for a moment about that place, will you?” Balarka nodded with a smile and closed her eyes whilst Elensaár asked Gustr and Varr if they were ready for the journey.

“Yes Sire. We are prepared and we have well understood your orders. I have to say that matter with that stone is amazing. Shall we begin our journey right now?”

“Yes my friend but since it is such a long way and time is of essence we have to shorten your journey a bit. Is that fine with you?”

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Irefenia Salgonda & Elensaar Gelindor

Gustr and Varr nodded but one could see that they had no idea what Elensaár meant with that remark. Meanwhile, Ddraig’s voice appeared in Elensaár’s head.

“Well, that was fine. Balarka has pictured a place that I found quite easily and I am ready if Gustr and Varr are ready”.

“We wish you success and take good care of yourselves. We do not know what you have to expect and beware of any queerly behaving people or animals. Our enemy is able to send his demons in all kinds of disguises. Farewell and once you are there, take that stone and let us know if you have liked your journey”, the elven lord said smiling to the puzzled looking lads who vanished the very next moment from the roof garden.

Balarka was shocked and pressed her hand to her chest but Faror told her that she had no need to worry whilst Zaron began to smile the next moment.

“Well, the two have truly enjoyed their first journey but they are still somewhat surprised”, he laughed in his inimitable way.  With help from Enyana, Norhidayu arrived right in front of the entrance to Rialian Yldannan and flitted through the dimly lit tunnel and along the path to the ancient tree. As the cinnamon brown elven lass darted her way to Queen Deirdre’s quarters she beheld that the first structures on the flets were taking shape that had been built during the last couple of months.

It took only a moment until she found the right bearing and headed to the group of young trees that grew beneath the - 41 -

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tremendously tall one that dominated the realm beneath the ground. One moment later she flitted through the archway that marked the entrance to the queen’s private quarters and her mind searched for Deirdre’s mind pattern.

Suddenly, a voice echoed down from high above and as she looked upwards, the golden haired Queen of the Ithil’quessir hovered downwards and landed next to her.

“Hullo Norhidayu, what an unexpected visitor you are. Be welcome. Not often have you visited us unheralded”.

“Yes my Queen you are right but as you have guessed already, I am not here for merrymaking”.

“Oh yeah I know, you are the one with the special talents.

Well then, please have a seat and we shall counsel. Shall I call anyone else at this moment?”

“No my Queen, the matter indeed is urgent and time is of essence, that is why I was sent by Grand Lord Elensaár who is currently engaged in certain preparations”.

During the next half an hour, the little elven gave a full account of what had happened, what conclusions were drawn and what was needed to be done as fast as possible.

“Wow, – that is serious my dear but the conclusions are right. Something must have changed in Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer’s favour and we shall find a way to cope with him.

Have you any idea how many children we need to take care of?”

“No my Queen not yet but Enyana will give you the necessary information as soon as they are available”.

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“Yeah that will be right. We shall prepare all that is required to take care of the little ones. I will counsel with Queen Nooriaty what has to be done on Ai Seler’ en’ Tolea’Fuin because that is right as well, it will not be easy to protect the whole island. However, since the last fight, all our archers were practicing bimonthly.

There are a few things we should not forget and one of them is our elves who take care of the Onodrim and especially the platforms that have emerged recently. I would guess that those will be targets of Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer as much as Menomenta and if he knows about them or finds them we might be in trouble if he would destroy those structures”.

“Have they not been hidden below ground? My guess is that for the time being there might be a way to return them from where they have come and retrieve the crystals to hide them here in Rialian Yldannan. I think that is the only place that is shielded well enough against anything that Yaara Heru en’ Thaurer can throw against us, – isn’t it?”

“Yes my dear, that is right. Well thought and practicable. We will do one thing on top. Samry, the Onodrim guardian has told us that they were brought to that place to protect the spire. Now the time has come when their protection is really needed and we will ask him to send half of the Entlings to the northern platform to protect it as well. The only thing we have to find out is how to get the spires back into the ground.

Well, if worse comes to worse, Enyana has to come and try her best. Let me call some of my elves to give the necessary orders and then we shall pay a visit to Yánanui’ lanta Alu to see Queen Nooriaty”.

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Crossbow Isle – Crossroads – Part 1

Norhidayu nodded and sipped her water, which was badly needed after so much talking.

Norhidayu heard Queen Deirdre talking to her elves and not much later a business unfolded in the realm of Rialian Yldannan as Norhidayu had never seen before.

“Well my dear, all orders are given. Let’s pay your Queen a visit”.

Her vision blurred and the next moment she heard the soft thunder of the fall that graced the place she called home.

The slender figure with the cinnamon coloured skin and the long black hair sat in one of the stone circles of seven, apparently waiting for something to happen.

“Hullo – how nice that you came. I was awaiting your arrival”. Queen Nooriaty said with a gentle smile as Deirdre and Norhidayu approached.

“How did you know we would come?”

“Well, this time it was not intuition but Ddraig who has briefed me that I had to get our archers ready for something that you would tell me in detail. Hence, I have not only set our archers in motion but also given order to prepare our realm for the worst, which includes our friends from Ddraig’s Swell. Not much has he said but that we have to prepare for the worst. Is that right?”

“Unfortunately yes. However, not to miss anything I suggest that we ask Norhidayu to give once more a detailed account of all she told me and then I will let you know what I have done already”.

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Irefenia Salgonda & Elensaar Gelindor

Nooriaty had already ordered the small side table to be set with refreshments and the second time; Norhidayu gave a full account, which was rounded up by Queen Deirdre’s report about the preparations that were ongoing in Rialian Yldannan as they spoke.

Not yet had dinnertime been called but the two elven realms and Yamen’ Grotha Naugrim were buzzing like beehives in spring.  Once Liam and Jake had left Morgan’s house, Enyana had a short private conversation with her seanmhair and after a hearty farewell, Ddraig was airborne and on his way to Caradoc Castle.

This time, they both had no eyes for the beauty that was unfolding beneath Ddraig’s huge wings as he flew like a falcon hunting his prey over the fields and forests deep below. Gawain had spotted them from afar and tried to follow but Enyana told him briefly what had transpired and what he and his clan should take care of. This time the huge eagle had not stood a chance to match the speed of his former student who showed not only Enyana what it meant for a Dragon to make haste.

Like a red-golden glittering dart shot his huge figure over the sky and not much more than an hour after he had taken flight in Willowbee, the Ardara Ford appeared beneath his wings and a moment later, Caradoc Castle became visible and grew rapidly into Enyana’s view.

Unlike his usual approach, Ddraig did not circle a few times over Caravalley to let everyone know that the Guardian of the Isles had arrived but landed straight away in the wide - 45 -

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courtyard and in front of the entrance to the Great Hall of Caradoc Castle. A glance with the eye of his mind revealed that the place he usually occupied was vacant, he shrunk as swiftly as possible and before anyone was aware that he had landed, he appeared with Enyana on his back in front of the huge mantelpiece in the eastern part of the hall.

The next person who showed up with a fearful cry was Kimball’s Major-domo Ludovic who had heard some unexpected noises and jerked back as he beheld the unheralded figures of Ddraig and Enyana.

“Oh – I am so sorry Milady. I did not want to scare you with my cry but I had not reckoned with your visit at all”, he lamented and bowed low.

“Don’t you worry my friend. It is not us you have to worry about. Do you know where Kimball is?”

“Yes Milady, he is with his General Connlaodh and Lady Brianna at the house with the office. Shall I go to let him know that you have arrived?”

“Yes, that would be quite nice and please let him know that I would like to see him, General Connlaodh, Lady Brianna and Weylin. Ah – and please order a pot of hot coffee. Our flight was cold and I really would care for that”.

“Shall that be all your orders, Milady?”

“No, please ask someone to take care of Ddraig’s needs as well”, Enyana said with a gentle smile that hardly disguised the laughter that lurked behind her eyes.

The Major-Domo Ludovic bowed deep and vanished swiftly.

One moment later some of the younger servants appeared brightly smiling to take care of Enyana and Ddraig’s desires.

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Irefenia Salgonda & Elensaar Gelindor

They had no problems adhering to the wishes of both since they had waited on them often enough.

It took only a short while until the Major-Domo reappeared heralding his Liegelord Kimball Caradoc ere he retreated.

Kimball approached the young woman brightly beaming, “Of late, – my good Ludovic is getting old and behaves a bit awkward but he is, and as long as I can remember, he always was a nice man and I really treasure him”, Kimball remarked with a smile and embraced Enyana heartily ere he went to Ddraig to pat his long neck.

Brianna and Weylin followed suit and only Milynn Connlaodh had still some problems behaving normally and that not only towards Ddraig. He bowed politely ere he breath a kiss on Enyana’s hand and then formally greeted the Dragon who reciprocated the greeting but then the rascally part of Ddraig took the upper hand.

“My dearest General Connlaodh, it truly is a pleasure seeing you again but it would be quite nice if you could remove the broomstick from your back and try to behave as normal as everyone. We have come to bring some tidings that will require everyone of us to give his life unconditionally into the hands of our friends and that includes that we understand each other even without being formal. Do you think you could do that?” and he cocked his head in that unique way as only dragons are able to do, which had a charming touch that no one could resist.

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Crossbow Isle – Crossroads – Part 1

If you liked what just read, go for the ‘real thing’ and order your your copy today.

Kind regards

I. Salgonda & E. Gelindor http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_pg_1?r h=n%3A283155%2Ck%3Acrossbow+isle&k eywords=crossbow+isle&ie=UTF8&qid=1 406261141 The tale continues in

Crossbow Isle Crossroads Part 2 More information about the Authors, Crossbow Isle and its volumes can be found on:

http://www.crossbow-isle.com/

Full colour Crossbow Isle maps, size 26.5” x 39” (67.3cm x 99cm) can be ordered via our website. http://www.crossbow-isle.com/CBI-crossbow-slemap.html - 48 -

Irefenia Salgonda & Elensaar Gelindor

The Authors Elensaár Gelindor had very early developed a passion for music, art and technology, which guided him all his life to the most unusual places and events.

However, as restlessness might have lain in his blood, he followed the example of one of his grandfather’s, – who had migrated in the early years of his life to China. – So eventually, he took up an assignment that led him to West Africa where he worked for several years.

Once he had met Irefenia, they both travelled for many years in pursuit of business around the globe and settled lastly in Malaysia.

After a turbulent time that saw the introduction of new and unusual businesses, they moved to Borneo where Irefenia developed the first draft chapters of “Ithilhin – Moonchild”.

From that point onwards, they both worked jointly out the story’s development and its central theme. Lastly, Elensaár decided to author Irefenia’s red-line-script into the version of this book.

His writing style that was coined by stringent adherence to logic and sequencing had now been combined with a style of lively story telling that considerably aided and influenced the story’s flow.

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Crossbow Isle – Crossroads – Part 1

Irefenia Salgonda,

born as the first of three children. She had very early developed a passion for writing. Her essays and short stories were circulated amongst friends. Later she wrote longer stories but never considered publishing any of them.

Once she had met Elensaár, she accompanied him on journeys around the globe, which allowed her to explore her passion and fascination for ancient cultures, their history and mythology on four continents.

During that time, she studied the English language and mastered it with distinction as foreign-language correspondent. Especially during the time of travelling, she pursued her writing passion extensively.

Therefore, it was not much of a surprise as she presented Elensaár the first draft chapters of “Ithilhin – Moonchild”.

He was ‘hooked’ by the tale and from thereon they jointly developed the idea to “Crossbow Isle”, – but this time with aim of publishing it

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Crossbow Isle – Crossroads – Part 1

Understanding the world of real elves begins with

Crossbow Isle All Crossbow Isle instalments are published in 4 monthly intervals.

Crossbow Isle is available at AMAZON, B&N and many others online stores. They are also available as KINDLE and YUDU editions.

YUDU e-books can be read on every computer like real books.

Currently YUDU supports most tablet computers and Android devices but NOT yet APPLE machines, because it requires ADOBE or JAVA software to be installed, which APPLE does currently not support.

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Irefenia Salgonda & Elensaar Gelindor

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Crossbow Isle – Crossroads – Part 1

Please take note! All 5 volumes or their 15 instalments are 1 book and 1 story only!

Starting in between or skipping one part is affecting the understanding of the story!

It is also not advisable to change the reading sequence because the story is quite complex and sorting things out whilst reading might not work all too well!

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Irefenia Salgonda & Elensaar Gelindor

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