Legends of Clal - Master - Book 1 - v2
Prologue: Into the Darkness
Black waves thundered against the jagged rocks at the base of the towering cliffed mountain side.
It was as if an entire mountain range had been cloven in two creating a wall of massive cliffs above the ocean’s depths.
The turbulent waters raged below a silent crescent moon which hung high in the endless sea of stars above. The night was heavy and the darkness thick, yet, the moon’s faint light was still useful to the distant traveler who scaled the cliff’s ridge high above.
Clothed in a dark, worn robe and with a large leather sack on his side he climbed over underbrush and fallen trees, for there was no trail. He wore no cap and and his gray hair whipped back and forth against his weathered face. His pace was steady, but not hurried, though he knew that he was being followed. (Add wore a white horn type with a some kind of creature carved around it…a white dragon.)
Hand over rock, foot over tree root, the figure continued to climb the steep side of the mountainous terrain. When he reached the pinnacle of the summit he moved surprisingly close to the edge of the cliff. The ocean hundreds of feet below could not be heard over the screaming sound of the wind. The man looked down and breathed in for a moment, then he turned and gazed in the direction that he had just come. He stood silent as a statue with the faint moonlight glimmering in his eyes.
It wasn’t long before footsteps were heard and a dark figure emerged from around the face of a large boulder. The figure stopped, and a few moments passed before the silence was broken.
“Felsawn,” the dark figure spoke, his voice deep and harsh. “Your intent is already well known. Why run? Do you think to hide?” He too wore a horn at his side, but it was black. Carvings but could not make them out. Womlon stretched his hand out and retrieved a dead tree branch. He held it in front of him, waved his hand over the staff which instantly burst into brilliant red flames. The man thrust the burning torch toward Felsawn which landed on the dirt halfway between the two figures.
Felsawn and the man were instantly illuminated and there was no hiding their presence now. All who had a view of the cliff could make out two figures in close proximity.
Felsawn’s eyes remained fixed on the man as he remained still. He said nothing.
“My brother,” the man continued as he began to slowly creep towards Felsawn, “There is no power, no wizardry strong enough now that can waylay my efforts to obtain victory over your feeble attempts.” He chuckled, “You are a fool. You always have been, Felsawn.” He paused, then added, “We will find it!”
At that moment Felsawn began to slowly inch backwards keeping distance between him and the man, though closer to the cliff’s edge which was a few feet behind him.
“You are not my brother, Womlon.” Felsawn spoke, his voice calm like the ocean’s waters had been the day before.” And the power that you call great, will abandon you in that very hour when you need it most.” Felsawn was at the edge of the cliff now, heals over the edge, he leaned slightly forward.
Womlon waved both hands from his side up through the air. The flame of the torch grew rapidly and burst high into the sky. Womlon stepped closer.
“Where will you go?” Womlon’s lips curled into a wry smile. “What hope is there?”
Felsawn never let his gaze off of his foe. His blue eyes were glowing. “Farewell.” He spoke. “We will meet again.” Felsawn paused, only for a moment, then leaned backwards. His feet left the edge of the cliff side and his body fell out of sight.
Womlon sprange to the edge of the cliff and yelled. “Your plan will fail in the end.” He watched as Felsawn’s figure shrank rapidly as he fell. Almost out of no where appeared a massive, white figure heading straight for Felsawn. It swerved, flapped it’s wings to slow in speed, paused, then turned in the direction opposite the cliff. This was a rescue, the plan, the great white dragon, Sedrak, from the ancient world summoned for the final exodus. Friend to the keepers of light and foe to the darkness. He carried Felsawn away to safety.
Womlon watched as the white dragon shrank then disappeared in the horizon. He squinted, looked up at the sky for a moment, then looked to his side and pulled a horn to his lips. (not blowing the dragon call, but blowing another type of call) He blew four slow wales. He waited, then far in the distance, four horn calls returned.
He had been laying on the grown strewn over the cliff. He jumped up from the dirt and brushed his black clothing off. The flame of the torch was still burning high. Womlon waved his hands from left to right, and with a deafening crack, the stick exploded and shrouded the surrounding area in flame. The wind quickly carried the fire down the side of the mountain.
Other torches could be seen across the mountain side and on the shores below. More horn calls were heard. The boats were readied hours ago.
Womlon reached the shore and approached one of the men standing near one of the hundreds of boats, “We will leave at once.” He said gruffly.
He looked at the cliff where he knew Felsawn had lept from. Now, it was a blaze in red fire. He squinted and spoke through his clenched teeth, “The plan will fail.”
He turned, then announced in a bellowing voice, “We ride west.”
Chapter 1: The Discovery
It was day and the brilliance of the sun was multiplied in the oceans’ endless shifting waves. Clal had been scanning the shore line for sometime and wa about to descend the slope from which he stood. But, there, off behind a cluster of rocks he thought he saw her. He leaned through the two tree trunks he was hiding behind, squinted, then yelled out, “Ha!” Clal left from his covert (hiding place - military context).
Down the mountain he sailed, bounding over rocks and bushes, blond hair flopping every which way. Clal burst through a group of bushes sending several birds to flight. His feet hit the sand and he bolted towards the rocks where he had just spotted his sister, Ansa. When he got there however, there was no Ansa, only the sound of laughing behind him, which signaled that his loosing streak was not over yet.
“I warned you, Clal.” Ansa said between gasps and giggles. She emerged from some bushes Clal had passed by moments before.
“But I saw you, Ansa.” Clal said now walking in her direction along the sandy shore. He was scratching his head with a down turned brow.
“Look closer.” she said.
Clal took a few more steps then stopped. He turned around then slowly approached the rocks. There, between two large boulders was a round rock propped up by two sticks. On top of the rock seaweed was fashioned in the likeness of a young woman’s long hair.
“See,” said Ansa now smiling from ear to ear. “It worked.”
Ansa put her hand to her mouth and attempted to control herself. But it didn’t last long. She burst out in another fit of laughter.
Clal rolled his eyes and marched passed Ansa refusing to look at her. Ansa turned and slowly followed.
They both ascended the west side of the grand Crescent Keep Mountain mostly in silence. Clal’s heavy foot steps matched his heavy heart. His own sister, wiser and keener than he. Almost every time they played a game of ‘finders’ she outsmarted him. He grabbed one of the remained autumn leaves from a passing tree, tore it in half then torn it in half again. They had almost reached the top when Clal noticed that Ansa was no longer following him. He looked down the trail where he spotted her a few feet away. She was gazing off towards the ocean. Clal walked down beside her then looked in the direction she was looking.
“Clal?” Ansa said slowly. “Do you see anything out there?”
“Yeah. Water. Sky. Birds. The sun. Clouds. Well, one cloud.”
Ansa turned toward Clal. “You see a cloud?”
“I see a cloud…isn’t that a cloud?” Clal wasn’t so sure and mostly passed the question to himself.
Clal moved closer through the trees but reaching the edge of the ridge, was unsatisfied with his position. He began to jog up the path until he was at the highest point of the mountain. Ansa followed until they both arrived to the highest point of the mountain. They peered off again searching the horizon.
Clal sat down on the dry, long grass and studied the sky for the cloud he thought he saw a few moments ago. There again, he caught site of a distant oval shape, ever so faint and almost indistinguishable from the sky. It was above the straight line of the horizon. Ansa saw Clal’s eyes widen and she knew he had caught sight of it again.
“I’ve seen it before,” Ansa spoke in a whisper. “It’s always there. I come up here sometimes in the mornings and just sit and look for it.” She took a deep breath then said, “It never moves, Clal.”
“What…” Clal spoke half under his breath, “…is that?” He turned to his sister, “Ansa?”
“I know. It’s something peculiar and maybe even special.” Ansa replied.
Clal turned his gaze from Ansa back out to the horizon. “How long…”
“I first saw it the spring before last.” Ansa began. “I had finished my turn on the fish run and as the afternoon was waning on, I sat down to rest. Before going down the other side of ole’ Crescent Keep I was looking, kind of day dreaming, and I started wondering what was out there beyond the ocean’s horizon. Then, I kind of awoke to it.” She stepped beside Clal and looked with him. “I saw it and kept it in my heart ever since.”
Clal looked at Ansa brow low and lips tight, “Why haven’t you told me about this before?”
Ansa smiled a faint smile, “Because, I just didn’t know what you would say. I was scared you’d, I don’t know, not believe me or worse, make fun of me for it, and I just didn’t want that.” Ansa paused, “Isn’t it beautifully mysterious in a way.”
Clal chucked, “Yeah, it’s beautifully mysterious indeed. But, it’s also real, Ansa. I see it out there. But what could it be?”
“I don’t know, Clal. But I’ve had months to think about it.” Ansa replied.
“And do you think you know?” Clal said, now curious about what his wise and keen sister might say next.
“I know what it isn’t,” Ansa said.
Clal shrugged his shoulders, “Well, I guess that’s a start.” He nodded then rested his chin in his hand. “A cloud that never moves…”
“Right,” Ansa agreed, “except I know it’s not a cloud.”
Clal cocked his head in Ansa’s direction. “Then why did you call it one?”
“Well…because it does look like one, but it can’t be. That’s just impossible.” Ansa said. Then silence set in as they mulled over all of the possibilities of the mysterious cloud’s true identity. The sun occasionally peaked through the trees as the wind danced between them.
The more Clal thought about this strange phenomenon the more obvious it became to him. Suddenly he sat up, “I’ve got it!” He exclaimed. “Ansa, maybe it’s supposed to look like a cloud.” He jumped to his feet and looked once more in the direction of the mysterious cloud on the horizon. Ansa eyed him closely as Clal gazed for a few moments. Then, a sideways smile graced his lips and Clal said, “It can’t be.” Clal spun around to face Ansa and with both hands grabbed Ansa’s shoulders.
“What?” Ansa shouted half startled.
“A floating island.” Clal said as he searched Ansa’s eyes for an answer.
“Exactly.” She said. “It has to be, Clal. There’s no other answer, is there?!” She lept towards Clal and hugged his middle. “I’m so glad someone else knows now. It’s been such a burden keeping it a secret for more than a year.” She let go of Clal and looked up at him. “Isn’t it fascinating?”
“Yes.” Clal nodded. “It’s more than fascinating.” He paused. “When I look at it, I feel something.”
Ansa let out a small gasp. “What do you mean?” She said quietly.
He turned to the trail again and started to step carefully along the path that led down the other side of the mountain.
“Clal?” Ansa said following close behind. “What do you mean, you feel something?”
After a moment of walking, Clal continued, “It’s like…” he hesitated and slowed his pace for a moment, then resumed his previous walking speed, “Ansa, it’s like I didn’t just see something out there, but I heard something…inside of me.” Then Clal added, “But not at first.”
Clal didn’t see her, but at that moment Ansa smiled, who was just a few feet behind him on the trail. Though she couldn’t say that she heard anything when she looked at the floating island, it was now their secret and not just her’s anymore. It was yet one more thing to share as the “venturesome twins”. This one topped any of the previous secrets and bits of stories they shared.
Clal and Ansa talked while they dodged rocks and trees on the way down the mountain. When they finally reached the flat forest ground Ansa ran to Cal and grabbed his arm.
“Clal,” she said as Clal turned toward her. “We can’t tell anyone.”
Clal nodded slowly. “Right,” he said. “But, we must think of a way to find out more.”
“Right,” Ansa agreed. She bit her lip then said, “Shall we tuck this away for a while…”
“…and worry about getting ready to leave instead?” Clal finished his sister’s sentence.
“Yes, but,” her mysterious smile returned, “I’m already packed.” She started to giggle.
Clal just shook his head, “Figures.” Then he smiled. “I bet I can beat you to the house,” and he bolted through the trees out of site.
“Wait, Clal! Wait!” Ansa yelled after him. “I’m not as fast as you.”
The shaking of tree branches and bushes revealed their whereabouts through the forest. Clal soon reached the front door. He paused on the door step when he heard a horse whiny and the creaking of a wagon.
They were here and he wasn’t ready. He jumped through the front door and disappeared into the house.
Chapter 2: The Visitor
Ansa entered the house completely out of breath. Her mother approached her.
“Hello, Ansa. Are you all ready?” She said quietly.
“Hello, Mum.” Ansa replied. “Yes, I’m ready. Where’s Clal?”
“He’s in his room with Turl gathering his things.” Her mother turned away. Ansa caught a glimpse of a tear rolling down her face.
“Mum, wait…” Ansa followed her mother into the kitchen.
In Clal’s room, Turl, Clal’s older brother, was packing Clal’s bag as Clal handed him clothes and other items, worthy of such a trip.
“Turl, what’s it like, the Great city of Eldan Vyum?” Clal asked handing Turl the last of his belongings. Turl carefully placed the clothes in the satchel. He sat on Clal’s bed then Clal sat beside him. Clal began fascening the straps.
“I guess, it’s just about the same as any other city.” Turl said.
“But the capitol of all of Illia...our country?” Clal demanded. “Why did you keep going back year after year.” Turl knew what Clal was searching for, adventure. A story. Maybe even a little bit of danger in the likes of a tall tale. But Turl, Turl wasn’t like Clal. Clal was full of curiosity about everything. He would never settle for a short answer to an important question. The world for Clal was full of wonder and there were days when Clal was just itching to dive into the thick of his explorations. Turl, on the other hand, was content to sit in his hammock chewing on a piece of straw after a hard days’s work.
Instead of filling Clal’s head with stories, which he had plenty of, Turl felt that this was an opportune time to relay to Clal his one bit of advice that he’d thought of before seeing him off.
“Eldan Vyum,” Turl started, “It is a spectacular place, in a way. I’m sure it won’t dissappoint you. But there will be times even during these next few months while you are away when disappointment and maybe even a little self-doubt will creep in among all that wonder.” His brother put his hand on Clal’s shoulder and said. “Don’t ever doubt yourself, Clal.” Turl shook his head, “Just don’t let yourself.”
Clal smiled then started to say something when his Father entered the room.
“Father,” Clal exclaimed as he jumped to his feet and ran to embrace his Father. He hadn’t seen his father for a few days now and he was hoping that they wouldn’t miss each other.
“Clal...,” Dalbus smiled, “How’s my favorite son,” he said, winking at Turl who also smiled. “Turl, do you think Clal’s good and ready?”
Turl stood up from Clal’s bed and put his hands on his hips, “Today, Father, is the day.” Turl nudged Clal’s side. “Clal was born for this adventure.“
Clal looked at his Father, wrapped one arm around his neck then did the same to Turl. “Does this mean I’m finally a man, going to work in the blacksmith’s shop making swords and all?”
Both Dalbus and Turl burst out laughing. “Well, Clal,” his father said, “at thirteen I believe you’ll be there soon enough.” His father looked at Clal and winked.
“In fact, when I was your age I was…” his father started to say.
“...building one boat a week for the Illian navel fleet, living on my own, free as can be.” Turl and Clal both finished his sentence in unison and they all three burst out in a fit of laughter.
Clal’s father shook his head. Clal grabbed his pack and Turl stood up.
Just then their father turned to them, “Boys,” he said, “before Clal leaves we have something we wanted to talk to you about.”
Dalbus then turned and exited the room. Clal and Turl followed.
When they entered the main living space the room was dimly lit and there was little if any noise. Clal’s mother, Nareete, was leaning to the side against the front door frame. Clal’s father walked ahead of his two sons, approached his wife, and whispered something into her ear. She turned towards him and embraced him.
Nareete and Dalbus walked over in front of the window. Clal’s father took a chair, set it out for his mother then pulled one over for himself. They both sat down. “Children,” Dalbus said, “come and sit with us for a moment.”
Turl, Clal and Ansa all came and sat on the floor in a half circle.
Dalbus tightened his lips, his demeanor had changed to a serious nature.
“I’ve been away for a few weeks,” he said, “for a few reasons. Mother and I would like to talk to you about that.” He looked at Nareete then back at his children.
“The life of a fruit farmer has served us well these twelve years, although it can be unpredictable at times; the weather, insects. Mother and I have been talking for the past three years about considering other options, exploring other ways of making a living.”
Clal looked at Ansa. Here mouth was wide open, eyes open wide. Clal hung onto every one of his father’s words.
“I just returned from the eastern region of Illia, from the city of Reubis. It is a trade center for the Illian navy. I’ve been accepted as the director of trade for the royal association.” He smiled, though cautiously.
“But father we…” Ansa said.
“I too love our home, our life here in the valley of Lyrune under the shadows of Crescent Keep mountain.” Nareete said.
“Turl will stay here, keep the orchards going, and settle here forever more.” Dalbus smiled at Turl. “Turl purchased the home and land from us, which we didn’t ask him to do but he gratefully offered.” Dalbus bowed slightly to his oldest son. “We have a farmer in the family after all, and I think you will do wonders for this orchard.” Dalbus smiled again.
Their father continued, “This means that you two,” their mother pointed to Clal and Ansa, “will be traveling to live there in Reubis after your apprenticeships in Eldan Vyum four months from now.” She handed them both a small scroll. “All you need to do is follow the directions that I’ve written here when you’re ready to come home.” Nareete clasped hands with Dalbus. “I...know that this might seem ill news at an otherwise promising time in our family.”
“Nothing can compare to the secrets of the ocean you’ve encountered or the treasures this valley and old Crescent Keep has provided to you during your youth.” Father added.
“It’s time to move on and though the sadness will linger,” their mother said, “the old life will yield to a new life and things will be okay again.”
“But Father, why now?” Ansa said. “Why not when Clal and I have grown to adults and are on our own. That’s in a few years…”
“We’ve felt to move for a while,” her father answered, “and I took my journey a few months because your mother and I feel that we cannot delay any longer.”
“It was a small miracle that your father secured this new position that he did.” Nareete looked at her husband.
“Clal?” his father looked at him, “Are you okay with this?”
Clal nodded, “Father, I am sad...I am. But, it is also exciting. A new adventure for us.” He looked at Turl, “And we’ll visit, won’t we?”
Turl stood up from sitting on the floor. “Is that all you think about, Clal.” He smiled, “One adventure after the other?” He laughed.
“Well,” Clal said, “Yes. What else is there?”
They all smiled.
“And yes, you’ll visit.” Turl said. “I’ll need help during harvest time.”
“I’ll be there, Turl.” Clal said, “And not just to eat the apples.” Clal then turned to his father. “Father, can we visit Clal before we leave to meet you and mother?”
Dalbus turned to Nareete who nodded. “Yes, Clal. I don’t see anything wrong with that.”
Dalbus stood up from his chair then said, “We’re sorry this is coming at such a time as now. We…”
“That’s okay father,” Ansa said, “We’ll manage I’m sure.” She smiled.
With Ansa’s final approval, the family was now unified in the direction that their loving parents were setting for them.
There was a knock at the door. Father opened. It was Ardus, the driver of the cart that had been sitting out front for some time.
“My apologies, Ardus. We were just saying our final goodbyes.” Dalbus said.
Ansa and Clal grabbed their packs and pushed through the front door. They tossed their belongings into the cart then both turned again toward their family standing outside their small cottage.
They embraced eachother, father, mother, turl, and the twins. Then Clal and Ansa slowly approached the cart once again and climbed in.
“Thank you Ardus for taking them,” Nareete said.
“My pleasure,” he replied, “You folks have been all but kind to me through the years. It’s time to return a favor or two.” He smiled, his mustache curling upward at the ends. He slapped the reigns and the horse started clopping along the road.
“Remember what I said, Clal.” Turl called out.
Ansa leaned over to Clal, “What did Turl tell you.”
“I’ll tell you later,” Clal said with a wink and a smile. Then he turned to his family. “Till we meet again…” Clal started.
“...a few months from now.” Ansa finished.
“Good-bye.” Clal and Ansa said in unison. They turned to each other and started to laugh.
Dalbus and Nareete laughed too and Turl only shook his head as he smiled.
They all watched eachother in silence then as the cart and the cottage grew smaller. Clal watched his family until the cart turned the corner on the trial and they disappeared out of sight. It all happened so quickly. His smile disappeared.
The breeze started to blow and as he lifted his hand to move his hair from his forehead, he realized that the scroll his mother gave him was still in his hand. He wondered what she could have written. He also thought about the blacksmith’s invitation for him to work for him and learn the trade.
“Clal,” Ansa whispered. Clal jumped, having sunk deep into thought about the next day’s prospects. “Can I sit next to you for a moment?”
Clal nodded.
She moved close to Clal and rested her head on his shoulder. “I’ve been thinking, what if Mrs. Milltree doesn’t like the way I sew? What if I talk too much? And what if…”
“Ansa,” Clal said, “Don’t worry.” He reassured her, “You’ll have her wrapped around your finger in a week. I’m sure of it.” Clal smiled. “Now, perhaps we ought to get some rest.”
“On this bumpy ride?” She sat up slightly.
“Yes. I don’t think we have anything to worry about.” Clal leaned against the side of the cart, adjusted himself for a moment then sat still. Ansa leaned against Clal and before long she was breathing heavily.
Clal looked up into the sky. The sun would soon set and night would cover the forest in a blanket of darkness. Perhaps he could sleep till morning, Clal thought. He closed his eyes and slipped away into a dreamless sleep.
Chapter 3: An Old Friend
Clal awoke at the sounds of the forest singing with birds. For a moment he had forgotten where he was. He quickly gathered his thoughts when he saw Ansa sitting beside him. She had awoken before him. Ansa followed a bird flying across the sky then noticed Clal was awake.
“Good morning.” She said.
“Good morning, Ansa.” Clal replied.
They were silent for a long time, their bodies moving with the sway of the cart as it jostled over uneven ground. The aspen trees waved at them as they traveled through the forest. The breeze carried a scent of vegetation in full bloom while the forest was bustling with the sounds of nature; crickets, birds, and the wind in the leaves.
Clal noticed that they were approaching the point at which he’d never trespased this far beyond the forest. He could usually be found atop Cresent-Keep Mountain or traveling to the Crescent Hills below. The furthest he'd ever ventured to travel was within a half a day from the sea in any direction, except west of course. Clal’s fear of deep water hadn’t allowed him beyond the shore line.
“Do you suppose we’ll be another day on this rickety old cart?” Her voice had been unusually loud and the driver cleared his throat and muttered under his breath for some time.
“I don’t know. I’m not too…” Clal stopped then looked past Ansa focusing his eyes far in the distance. He grabbed the side of the cart, then pulled himself up. “Hey! Hey!” he yelled waving. “Ansa it’s Rythe.” He turned to the driver, “Ardus, there’s someone coming. I think he wants passage on this...fine wagon.”
In the distance a young lad with dark brown hair and a pack on his side was bobbing up and down through the forest. Rythe was running as fast as he could through a clearing between two thick sections of the forest waving his hands up and down and calling out Clal’s name.
The driver looked at Clal. Clal pointed out into the forest to the driver’s left and the driver looked in that direction. “Whoa!” he said. The cart stopped.
“This is a cart for hauling,” he snapped back, “not so much for people, boy. Whoa!” He said. “I’m doing your parents a favor. I don’t mind. But, more of you…”
By that time Rythe had reached the side of the cart. He thrust his hand into his pocket and pulled out a few coins. He gave them to the driver and said, “Is there room for one more, good sir?”
“Well at that price, young lad, you can have a ride on my cart anytime you like,” old Albus said as he started to whistle a happy tune. “Climb in.”
Rythe tossed his pack inside then Ansa and Clal helped him in the cart. The cart started again and Clal clapped Rythe on the back.
“So good to see you, Rythe.” Clal said, “It’s been…”
“...too long, old friend.” Rythe said with a smile. “What’s the news with you two?” he said settling back against his pack, folding his arms.
“We are going to Eldan Vyum to learn a new trade,” Clal started. “I’ve been invited as an apprentice to a blacksmith that my father knew.”
“That’s a high honor Clal.” Rythe said with raised eyebrows.
Clal nodded, “To think, making swords and armor for the finest men who walk this land.”
“Nails and locks, furniture and horseshoes too.” Rythe added. “It’s an important job.” Rythe turned to Ansa, “And you, Ansa? What lies in store for you in Eldan Vyum?”
She hesitated, “Well, mending and sewing clothes.” She smiled only slightly. “That’s it. Just a clothes shop.”
“I see,” Rythe said hesitating, “...which...” he leaned forward, “...means that you’ll be crafting enchanting dresses for royal ladies while Clal is pounding out iron swords for epic battles.” He smiled a wide smile. “Who could ask for a more exciting summer?”
It worked, both Clal and Ansa smiled widely too. They had never thought of it like that. It was just what Ansa had needed and his presentation of their future appointed stations even brightened Clal’s spirits.
“It sounds like you two are off to new adventures.” Rythe concluded.
“Yes,” Ansa agreed. “Perhaps we are after all.”
“And what about you, Rythe? It’s been almost two years since we’ve spoken.” Clal said, “Tell us,” Clal smiled, “where have you been? We used to gallivant all over the countryside together.”
“Right.” Rythe said quietly. Smile now gone. “We did.”
Rythe looked down at his hands as he picked at his fingernails for a moment. Then, he breathed in and sighed, “I’ve been, around,” he said, “just staying closer to home.”
“I’ve taken trips to the sea and have visited the Eastern shores too.” He looked up at the sky and squinted, “And...there was a visit from my aunt, hunting season, we cleared another section of our land for farming. That was a chore.” Rythe was struggling to come up with something interesting.
“Rythe,” Clal said, “You don’t sound like yourself. I don’t know what it is but you’ve changed. What’s going on?”
Rythe’s face turned pale for a moment. He started to shake his head slowly. He was looking out into the trees, sun rays poking through occasionally. His gaze was frozen. Clal knew that his friend was troubled.
“I tell you only because you ask,” Rythe began to say slowly, “and only because I know you will keep it in your heart.”
“Yes, Clal, you are right,” Rythe continued, “I have stayed away these past several months, hidden, I’ve become a recluse of sorts.”
“For that I am sorry, old friend.” Rythe said smiling slightly.
He leaned in close, “Earlier this year I took a trip to the north.” He pointed. “It was just me, through the woods, though I took the plain road most of the way. Mother and I had agreed that we needed a new ox to pull the plow. Migg was getting too old and wouldn’t be useful to us for next year’s farm work.”
“It was on the second day, just a half a day’s walk that I was walking along the road in plain site. I had just passed an apple tree and had plucked from it’s branches one of the biggest apples I had ever seen. I thought of you right then Clal, I want you to know.” Rythe smiled. His face, however, returned as if to stone and his eyes were still gazing into the forest.
“I was eating that apple and walking down the wide road when I heard thundering behind me. Normally, I would watch whomever were on horseback, move out of their way, then continue on my way. But not this time.” Rythe shook his head, “No, this time I felt fear that I had never felt before. The moment I heard their horse’s thundering hooves, I knew something wasn’t right.”
Ansa slid closer to Clal and clutched his arm.
“And so I hid as fast as I could,” Rythes voice got quieter, “behind some nearby bushes. In the process I dropped my apple. I had only taken a few bites.”
“They appeared in the distance almost as soon as I left the road. I watched them approach and thought that I could endure their passing and be on my way. But to my great alarm,” Rythe paused, “The large rider in front silently lifted his fist in the air and the riders slowed and stopped right in front of where I had found cover.”
“There were four riders in dark clothing. Two of them dismounted. I froze, barely breathing.” Rythe paused.
“It was hard to take it all in really.” Rythe continued. “Just moments ago I had been enjoying my apple, walking along the road, thinking about some of the best things in life. But now, I feared for my safety, my future, my very life.”
“They were all searching the surroundings, looking here and there. The rider who seemed to be the leader, the largest one, was standing closest to me. He searched the ground, spotted my apple, then picked it up.”
“‘What is it?,’ one of the riders still on their horses said.”
“‘Must we delay?,’ said another.”
“‘Quite,’ said the leader. ‘There’s someone here...and they think to hide from us.’”
Rythe laughed nervously. “Clal, these men were no ordinary men. Mind you, I don’t take to recoiling easily.”
“‘See here,’ the leader said pointing to the ground, ‘The tracks are no less than an hour old. And this apple here, not five minutes ago it was plucked from that tree over there. A few bites and abandoned on account of our arrival.’”
“‘A pity,’ another rider said. ‘It looks like one of the juiciest apples I’ve ever seen.’”
“Then the leader took the apple in his massive hand and crushed it in his grasp. He looked in my direction and started to inch his way toward me with the others close behind.”
“I wondered why four men would pay attention to and even torment one who was alone almost in the dark of night in the middle of the forest. I soon found out the answer to the riddle.” Rythe was talking faster now. “They had come behind and were headed north too and had seen my tracks for miles, I was sure of that. And when the tracks left the road, I’m guessing it was only because I heard them and could not be far, they probably guessed.”
“‘We know you are here,’ the large one said, ‘And we would have you show yourself.’”
“The other dismounted rider walked over to a rider on horseback and whispered something to him. The other two riders dismounted in a moment and I found no comfort in staying hidden any longer. And so I did what I thought would be the only reasonable option if I wanted to save my skin,” Rythe leaned back and threw his hands up in the air, “I lept out of my hiding place and ran.”
“I jumped over bushes and darted past trees. Clal, you know how fast I am?!” Rythe added. “But it wasn’t fast enough. I figured they wanted money or information, but I didn’t know exactly.” Rythe’s fist his his open palm, “I wasn’t about to give them anything, those sniveling thieves.”
“I must have only taken ten strides when I was hit from behind and tackled to the ground by one of them. It was like he had jumped from a tree the way he collide into me.” Rythe looked up remembering the details, “He wasn’t behind me, it was as if he had been in front of me, but that’s not possible.”
”I also noticed that one of the men had disappeared, the other two had grabbed their horses and were now dismounted and at my side. The other held me tight.”
“Why are you telling us this, Rythe?” Ansa said shaking, “This isn’t one of your tall tales?”
“No. Sadly, it is not though I wish it was.” Rythe had that distant look in his eyes again.
He looked at Clal and Ansa then said, “I tell you this because this is a riddle half solved, and of all of the people I know, you two are fit to solve it.” Rythe sighed, “I never intended to tell a soul. But you asked why I was have not been around, and I feel you ought to hear the truth. Nothing happens by chance.”
“So what happened next?” Clal said.
“With three of the men pressing in I couldn’t think of anything to do so I said, ‘Hello friends. It’s a beautiful night, is it not?’”
“I should have kept quiet because I was shoved to the ground with an incredible force. But, I continued, ‘Now really, this is no way to treat a complete stranger, or anyone for that matter. My name is Doren. Can I do anything for you?’ That didn’t work either. It just made things worse when I found a new pain in my ribs.”
“‘All we want from you, is food and money…’ the large one said’”
“‘...and that shiny dagger dangling from your side,’ another rider said”
“‘...then we’ll leave you to your journey.’ the large one said.”
“‘No,” I said.”
“You told them no?” Ansa said.
“Yeah. I wasn’t about to let them take anything from me without a fight.” Rythe said shaking his head.
“But they could have killed you.” Clal said.
“‘No,’ I said, ‘You can’t have anything. Not one shekel. And this dagger was give to me by my father who died last year. It means a great deal to me.’ Then I pulled away from the rider who was holding me and yelled, ‘Why would you chase me and hurt me when I did nothing to you?! Cowards prey on the innocent. There are four of you and one of me…’ I said”
“I was shoved again but that time I shoved back. Then they closed in on me inching forward like before.”
“‘This young lad here, he thinks he’s brave.’ the leader said then continued, ‘First I thought to find some sport, but here we’ve found the budding hero of Illia.’ He laughed a cruel and wicked laugh. ’It’s clear to me what we should do with one who thinks to grow so brave.’”
“‘Do you not know with whom you are in the presence of?’ the one holding me hissed.”
“‘Yes,’ I said, ‘I do’. I felt as if these were men whose hearts were truly black, and so I said these words to them.”
“‘You were men who were once noble and great, but who embraced the evils of this world and now are servants to it,’ then I added, ‘slaves, you are.’”
“Rythe, that doesn’t sound like you?” Clal said.
“Clal, I felt something there, like I was bigger than myself somehow.”
“Immediately one of them said, ‘Strike him down.’ The rider holding me released his grip, stode and drew his sword all in one movement then thrust it towards me.” Rythe leaned in again and the twins did too. “And here’s what happened next.”
“I hadn’t noticed but we were on the banks of a river, just a few feet away from the water. At that moment the river bagan to glow, a light deep beneath the surface started growing brighter and brighter eventually illuminating the entire forest, like it was day.” Rythe’s smile had returned. “The three riders paused, stunned by the phenomenon.”
“‘Renthar,’ my attacker yelled out, ‘What is this?’”
“‘Krothwing!’ The large one said motioning with his arm, ‘Lower your sword.’”
“I ran towards the water. The men didn’t follow. I felt free from their evil intentions for a moment.”
“‘It seems as if we’ve mettled with the wrong boy tonight.’ Renthar said”
“Then, they slowly walked toward their steads, all three of them keeping their eyes fixed in the direction of the light. They mounted, cracked their reins and disappeared into the forest shadows.” Rythe added, “I never did find out where the fourth rider had disappeared off to.”
“When they had gone the light began to fade.” Rythe’s voice was quiet. “I knelt down on that river bank and spoke to the kind water that had saved me in that moment.”
“‘Thank you,’ I said, ‘I will repay you somehow, someday. Thank you.’”
“I ran all night. And though I knew somehow the keeper of the light in the river was still with me, I wrestled with the fear of the encounter.” Rythe shook his head. “I didn’t continue north but I retraced my steps, this time through the forest. I cut much time off my journey and soon, mid-day the next day I collapsed on the front steps of my home. Luckily my mother was still sleeping or else she would have been worried. When she did awake, I simply told her that I was unable to get an ox and returned home as fast as I could.”
Rythe help up two fingers, “For the next few weeks I had only two questions in my mind, who were those men, and why did that river shine its light when I needed it the most?”
“I found out a half answer to the first question only a few weeks later when I went to Eldan to finally buy an ox.” Rythe said. “They are known to some as” then he leaned in and whispered, “...the RISHK.”
Chapter 3.5 - Tying up Conversation with Rythe
Fills in broadens culture, information about country
Rythe and Clal talk about past days together, fills in characterization.
Ansa shows interest in Rythe. Shy around him. Is more quiet.
Rythe is going for the examination, first mention of the exam
Clal goes for to work
Ansa goes to work
Talks about myths???
They open their scrolls. (What does the mother say?)
“I want to tell Rythe about the Skyland.” Ansa, “I trust your judgement that you will tell anyone you feel like when you feel it’s right.”
During cart drive they meet someone who provides interesting information..????? Maybe
Or rythe just creates information and things to think about instead
Chapter 4: Into Eldan Vyum
Very early morning
Drop off Ansa, the lady is awake early
Black smith’s shop is vacant, no one there
Rythe will show Clal around a bit in the city, (useful places) plan to return later that day.
Medicine shop???
Other Place
Other Place
They walk toward Castele
Pass statues - Seldonolum?
Rythe tells th story of the statues
Clal started to tell Rythe about the Skyland, couldn’t handle it any longer…
Interupted by some commotion in front of the castle…
What is the commotion
There were Guards coming?
Gruff, Clal was caught up with Rythe and entered the castle and couldn’t get out.
Clal mistaken for an examination boy.
Rythe reassured Clal that they would find a way to get him out.
Why couldn’t they just tell the guards that he didn’t belong there???
Chapter 5: In the examination
(Meets Morgreth)
There are boys from all over Illia, all 15 years of age
The court/castle know who should be there and who should not.
Also, when all the boys listen to announcer, more back story, culture is exposed about the land, the purpose of the exam and why it started, how it started.
One boy is missing, they call three times……then Clal says he that boy and the roll call moves on.
That is worthy of imprisonment since the idea of finding “The One” through the exam process is so important to the future of the country and everyone.
But Clal didn’t know.
Rythe is examined, tells Clal what it was like.
Describes Morgreth and the process, the stone…
Clal sneaks out during the night to look for a way out planning to meet Rythe at the Smith’s shop the next day.
Clal sneaks in the dark…but finds Morgreth.
Morgreth knows his name somehow and performs the test though he’s only 13 years old. Same as Rythe’s description of the examination.
Description of a miraculous display of light, both in Clal’s body and in the room.
He is “The One.”
He recites the prophecy…
Morgreth also tells him that he has many things today and that nothing is by chance.
“Go get your friend. He is coming with you.”
Clal returns to Rythe, wakes him up, and tells him that they need to leave.
They leave the area.
Another boy follows them.
They meet Morgreth, “Did anyone see you Clal?” “We don’t think so.”
The boy that followed returns and tells someone that his real name is Clal and that he was an imposter
Chapter 6: Journey through the castle dark
“What’s going on?” Rythe asks concerned.
Morgreth takes them through the castle, a secret underground way so no one can follow or detect.
Rythe recognizes the Wizard as the examiner.
Run into Guards looking for Clal (and maybe Rythe)
Just as they are surrounded, Morgreth says to Clal, “Place your hands here.” Walls open
They rush in and it closes just in time for guards to pass by, they are unoticed.
Room full of stuff
A bird flys in right before the walls close
Ancient things.
Clal is transported in feelings to familiar feelings.
All life wanted to be a hero, clal did, but now, he’s not so sure.
Morgreth explains additional things about Clal and his quest.
Clal is for bidden to open some things, but he sees a book, “The Book of Legends.” Opens it.
“Even I do not dare to claim to know the extent of how the future should unfold.” Says morgreth.
You must retrieve your sister.
And the smithy, borrow some swords & daggers.
Learns of the ancient story of
Opens book of legends and says, hey, I know this, it’s a song, my mother used to sing it to me.
(Could that be a significant family thing marking his heritage as the chosen lineage???)
The song:
Dragon and the seed of stone
Rode out to eat, dark and how he was alone
This was a lullaby…..only one verse was known
But there is another verse.
The second verse if found in the Book of Legends…..
Clal finds the second verse and sings it to the tune he’s always known.
It sings of a forgotten people (which ties into the dragon and the land and lost people???)
And how they were hidden away……
And how “we will come find you and set you free.”
(No hint of 5 here, no hint of 5 crystals)
Hittle is noticed - maybe he sings the tune and that’s the segue to introducing him
They exit chamber another way.
When they are almost out, they are caught and run…Rythe and Clal.
Chapter 7: Gather Ansa and Weapons
Running, still night time.
Must loose the guards….they loose them quickly.
Clal runs into the statue, (though reader thinks it’s a guard => segue to another thought => no longer chased by guards)
Rythe and Clal both marvel that it’s a representation of Clal as the hero in the end. Strange.
They get Ansa first.
They go to Black Smith’s,
If Ansa would not have been there, they would not have been able to get weapons.
They decide that the only hidden people possible are the Skyland people so they head in the direction of home again.
They leave Eldan Vyum just as the morning sun is rising….on foot.
Chapter 8: Back Home
Ridders come on trail they hear
They hide
It’s king’s guards and they assume that they are headed for Clal’s home….or at least the boys do.
Ansa doesn’t know all the details so they tell her.
She’s upset and is worried. Why did you do it Clal???
They watch their family from the bushes and trees.
Memory of Turn “don’t doubt self”
How to deal with family being questioned?
And patronized.
Can they really go on before clearing this up?
Their journey is not there, their family will have to deal with it
But what if they can enlist Morgreth’s help.
Ansa, writes a letter that Clal and Rythe help draft.
When the guards leave, Turl is out there last and Clal throws a rock at him.
Turl turns around, and Ansa pokes through a bush and waves for him to come over…
She motions for him to be quiet and to be secret.
So he understand right away and comes over.
She gives him the note and reassured him that everything is okay and that they are now embarking on a quest.
He trusts them and prays for them to be careful and that he’ll do all he can to support and help them.
He tells his parents that he came across this note….but doesn’t tell them that they talked…
They understand and things are okay for a while.
Turl is quested to seek out Morgreth or something to help die down the guards.
They decide they can’t climb crescent keep, have to lay low and go another way.
Night fall, will camp in a few hours.
Chapter 9: Rythe’s Home
Wake up at camp early.
Rythe stops by his house, leave not, shows love for widowed mother, worried for her that guards will come. Tells her in a note to stay with her sister. “I will be gone for longer than expected.” He is on a good errand.
What do they need for their journey?
Who do they need to visit?
Read Book of Legends. Read about a character, someone who they think can help them.
Before they can go to the Skyland they need a clue of more about it
Amnber - Read about it, ancient place
Hittle starts to make a bunch of noise when that name ‘ Amnbir’ is spoken of…..
He darts off and they follow him.
Chapter 10 - Amnbir Part 1
Amnbir place of ancient images? And things
Chapter 11: Gulnerye Comes
Amnbir - The place of the Great Bird - Gulnerye’s Legend. - The Place of the Bird Taimer.
This man-bird sent Hittle to bRing Clal to him
Hittle keeps getting them to read the Book of Legends…
They get there to Amnbir, the man flys down after they re there for a while.
Tells them the way to get noto Skyland
Tells of the Rishk and Krothwing
Tells why the people started learning how to fly, tame the wind,
He can understand what Hittle says.
Gulnerye gives them a token to further prove to the king and queen of Skyland that they are come for a noble purpose
“I am a Skylander. I come from Skyland. Long ago we were an island and were left alone as elves, sea farers. We leaned of a stone and tried to retrieve it. (Morgreth secretly gave them knowledge of a stone.) The moment we did we went skyward.
OR, THE PEOPLE WERE ASKED TO BE “CRYSTAL KEEPERS” BY MORGRETH.
Big sacrifice, in return, they were given a power or gift beyond any other…
The ability to wield wind
Ability to become invisible - wield sight, vision…
Ability to wield fire
Ability to wield water
Illia - ability to wield earth.
MOrgreth tells all people toabout the crystals and they all disappear.
People are hidden away.
Island in sky
Mountain moved
Invisible sands of illusion
Sea people depths of sea
Illia, center of continent, hidden in the beginning.
Gulnerye says “The people harness the wind and wear wing type things on their arms
Sea farers, needed to travel, learned how to fly
Sacred wind and sacred wings they worship and honor with reverence
Asked Morgreth for learn how to find flight???
“The only way to get up to the Skyland is to summon the great dragon. You do this with the horn to summon…but he doesn’t know where to find it. The only clue is a legend about the Dragon Tail river, but he also does not know where that is.
CRYSTAL KEEPERS - name of the people who keep watch over the Crystal.
He said to find it go to where the river dragon tail river begins.
There is a place there. This is all he knows
He flys away.
They leave with the token.
Chapter 12: figure out where Dragon Tail River Is
Travel to find the Dragon Summoner - Gulnerye Didn’t have
White carved dragon on it, the one Felsawn was wearing.
Figure out dragon tail river, where it is
The figuring out of where the river is…
Chapter 13: Travel to river
Travel to river,
More dialogue that develops characters
Set up story passing Pale Forest???
They get to the beginning of the river. But nothing
Do they see that the river is flowing up stream?
Is Clal the only one that can see that?
Clal’s powers unlock the opening of the Water Falls
Chapter 14: The finding of the dragon summoner
They meet keeper of horn, noble man of the falls
Learn is his daughter
Talk with Leara, her father and mother there.
Illian legends and knowledge
How do they know he is “The Chosen”?
Does the noble man give it to Clal, the horn? Is it time?
men’s voices are heard outside…
Even though they can’t come in, they may have some sort of magic or cause a threat…actually, Clal and his party can’t go out that way.
Leara is assigned to show them through tunnels to lead them away from danger
Chapter 15: journey through the dark tunnels
Through caves, bring out north shores
Learn more about Leara
Learn more about other things From Leara,
Other characters communicate with Leara and reveal more.
Hittle gets excited and darts off down a cavern passage way.
What does he find?
How does this add to the plot?
They follow him
How does the Book of Legends play a part.
Illia glimpse of?
Meet Morgreth?
Set up for Book 2?
Next place, next people?
Of, they find another exit that they use in another book?
They eventually come out of winding caves
The close is more visible, Skyland.
The decision for Leara to join them is made.
Chapter 16: the making of the boat
Have to use both to travel to a rock out in the ocean.
They can’t call the dragon so close to the shore, must be out at sea.
Dragon will only come to one spot. How do they know this?
Always above the water, the little island is.
They don’t have a boat, how to get there.
Clal encouraged by Rythe to use some of the powers he saw him used earlier.
They gather wood, sticks…
Touches, doesn’t work or works a little.
Leara touches and they make the boat together by magic.
They get in the boat and use some kind of oars
They go in the direction of the mini island.
Chapter 17: travel to the mini island
Amazingly beautiful water, so clear like Hawaii.
See the fish swimming, colors…rocks below.
Fear they might capsize and become overturned…
They become overturned and it is scary for a moment…
The book of legends gets wet, fear it’s destroyed
What other things get wet that aren’t good
Book of Legends
The horn
Their scrolls
Other paper
Someone can’t swim - fear of drowning - “I never learned.”
Leara can’t swim
Clal saves her, holds her.
They get back in the boat.
Leara starts crying and Ansa comforts her.
“I’m sorrry. I feared for my life just then. I never learned how to swim. As a the keeper of the Summoned horn, we never swam in the river…..???
Hittle lightens the mood. Humor, funny.
She explains more about how they came there.
More history of dragon summoning
Felsawn’s horn
The horn has white dragon on it
Can also use other calls not just to call Dragon.
The pass under the Skyland which is a cloud like figure high, high, high above them.
They reach the island and it takes a few hours.
They can no longer see the shore but they see Crescent Keep mountain in the far distance.
The island has ancient writing on it, symbols.
Ansa writes down the symbols in the book of legends.
Leara gives the horn to Clal to blow.
He blows. Some water comes out and it makes no sound. They clean it sufficiently
He blows and there is a sound this time. Waits. Nothing.
Chapter 18: the summoned dragon
Clal blows again. Waits. Nothing.
They are getting worried, having traveled all this way to get nothing.
He is just about to blow a third time when someone (Rythe, Ansa, or Rythe and Ansa at the same time spot movement around the Skyland cloud.
The Dragon, he’s really coming.
He comes and rests beside them, big enough island for him to rest and not touch the ocean
“I am Sedrak. I have been waiting for this day for ages. What is your name?”
Clal, Clal Winden.”
They talk with Sedrak.
Warns that things aren’t perfect up in Skyland.
There is a Rishk, an enemy to look out for.
It’s cold, forever frozen lands, snow and ice
Sedrak can only take them to the edges of the land.
They get on the back of Sedrak and travel up.
They leave the boat on the shore as to not leave any trace or allow the boat to float off to sea to be found by someone.
[Clal, Ansa, Rythe, and Leara]
Climb higher in the sky…see the shore where they left again
One just before they enter the cloud of Skyland they see that there are people where they left the shore on the boat.
How did they know where they were???
They also saw the great city of Eldan Vyum maybe???? Maybe too far?
They then move into the cloud, a raging blizzard is going on,
They, can see no land or sea below, entered a different world now it seems.
Chapter 19: Blizzard
Sedrak has to mender differently, scary a bit on his back.
They come to the edge of the island
He tells them to blow the horn again when they are ready to depart from Skyland
He leaves……
They don’t really know where to go,, jus
Next step: find some kind of shelter so they can have some sanity and make a plan, it’s freezing.
Rythe puts his cloak over Ansa.
Clal try the same for Leara but she refuses and says she’s okay
They run, dodge wind,
Someone falls
It is day
It’s bright, blinding some times….
Sun is not visible however
They find a snow/ice canyon to hid in.
During this time of finding shelter Clal notices some fast movement here and there.
He feels like they are being followed
He tells Ansa
So when they get to the Canyon Clal tells the others that he thinks they are being followed
The pace quickens and worry sets in, feeling of danger, “let’s hurry” type of feeling.
They walk through the canyon and at some point Rythe sees that there is ice below them.
At some point right at this moment they think they see some kind of figure of a man or shadow…
Rythe instinctively grabs his sword, thrashes it into the ice ground.
They sink into that ground and enter a chamber below.
Clal then thrashes with his sword the walls or ceiling above to seal off and they are safe from the mysterious threat of that unknown person.
It is all dark, there is a sudden fear that they are trapped in a dark place.
Ansa has been singing the second verse of that song about the people…
The only thing she can do is make her self calm down by singing
So without any prompting she starts singing and something far in the distance begins to glow and make light.
Leara tells her to keep singing…
The light continues and it gets brighter…..then they run to the source
They realize it’s a beautiful ice/glass/stain-glass-ish door. They try to push it open but it won’t budge.
She completes the entire second verse and then Ansa pushes the door open which is swings open easily.
Song about hidden people, we will come find you and bring you home.
They close the door and all is dark again.
Chapter 20: Search for Crystal Keeper
Two individuals, Skyla and Larkin hear the singing.
And shortly after going through the door, they find these two starring at them.
They are older, 20.
They are starring at them…
Clal and his party go They go through a dimly light cave and around the corner they bump into or are startled by these two who were coming to find out who was singing that song.
That song was special, ancient, and it was miraculous that it was even being sung…
They explain who they are and what they are there to do.
The twins believe them and tell them they will bring them to their parents, the King and Queen??
Don’t forget to make the twin elves fly some how
Chapter 21: The Crystal Keepers
Meet king and queen
Show Gulnerye’s token
The twin elves sing the FIRST SONG WITH A MORAL TO IT.
Above the oceans, lands, and clouds
The winds of earth do sing aloud
In constant song of onward light
Of birds that wing a lighter flight
But if the ear finds no such voice
Such things as this require a choice
For though the arts of sound are learned
Its greater part must first be earned
See more of the city and the people
The people are looking at them
There are some flying
meet Krothwing,
Chapter 22: battle with Krothwing, climax scene
Loosing and finding the crystal
Krothwing obtains it
Larking flys after him and gets it back
Chapter 23: leave with Sedrak,
fly over land,
Clal/Characters think about the wonder,
come to dawning of time cave
Dawning of Time, Dawning’s Peak
Sedrak speaks many things
Tells them there is a way to get him inside
He leaves
Call me Clal if you need me
Chapter 24: deposited crystal
Finds out that there are 4 other places
Learn that the purpose is to create a master weapon, they look for the information about this in the Book of Legends and find it.
To defeat the dark lord
They read the prophecy again.
They all agree to be part of the quest, giving for life or death
Those who are now part of the Quest.
Clal
Ansa
Rythe
Leara
Larkin
Skyla
Hittle
(Turl in second book?)
The time has come, the beginning of the end of the world.
Let’s go home.
Chapter 25: journey home
They see a place, a cave, where they know this is the way out…
They know it’s magical some however and they are not afraid.
There is a door though and somehow they can’t figure out how to open it
They eventually figure it out, but how? And why is this important.
To open the door, as singing opened the door on Skyland…… the people of song, the wind people, sky people: Larkin and Skyla, they sing the Prophecy as it is known to them as a song.
The door opens to song.
They all come through, only a few short turns and they are on top of Crescent Keep mountain again.
They all look in the distance, they see Skyland, and they also see a faint figure, Sedrak, return to the “cloud in the sky”
They travel down the mountain, hide in the bushes to make sure the coast is clear. It is.
They approach the house, a group of 6 people and a bird.
Clal and Ansa approach the door as they told the other four to hide and they will summon them.
They knock on the door and their mother answer, hugs, father comes then Turl.
They tell them that they are here…but only for a short time.
They brought some friends with them.
They summon to come out and they do.
Hittle flyes to the mother or Turl or the father or all of them and lands or communicates with them through some funny gestures, shows that he likes them. Twitters.
The father invites them to come in.
“Father,” the twins say at the same time.
“we have so much to tell you all.” Clal says.
“I’m so glad to be back home.” Anasa says
They all go in,
Someone, Turl, Father, or Mother, or Clal looks outside to check to see if there is anyone there.
The door shuts.
The narration finishes the story, but only a short paragraph.
The Prophecy
Look to the East to find the one,
Who only can unlock the sun
The powers of this world await
Who holds the key to open fate
And when is found this one to name
And take his place beside his fame
Remember this, that with his time
Comes danger, mischief, vicious crime
For not too far from this world’s birth
There was one who roamed the earth
Awaiting chance to stake his claim
Upon each heart that has a name
Yet if our one completes his task
The dark one lurking turns to ash
But if our one turns inward spite
All hope with fade without a fight