EYE for an EYE: The Pearl & The Sword Book-Two

By William Gorski

An Ancient Scroll reveals the cryptic and apocalyptic words articulated by Queen Leahanna’s late husband K’Thilladorn as seen in a vision moments before his untimely death. His words contain an ominous ring. A prophetical warning predicting future events. For it is the time of the full Blood Moon. It would be a time long anticipated by Evil. A time when a Key would unlock the pathway to wickedness, torture, demon possession and destruction.

Upon a pyramid sat the gateway, an Illuminated Eye beaming brighter as the coveted Key, the Sword of Leahanna, approached. All-the-while from within the portal of the Eye-Gate, an evil influence is being felt, an emerging New World Order set in place by Kalamon. It would further embolden the Muzoule, Gnomes and Trolls to ratchet-up their attack upon the Realm and make way for the Shinning One, the purveyor of Evil.

However, all was not lost. Hope lay deep within the Elfin forest of I’Thillianne. Queen Leahanna and the Wizards of the High-Tower had activated the Tablet of Destinies that lay within the Ark alongside the revived Holy Book of Promise, sending a Heavenly light, a celestial signal for the Roluks to attack, turning their arrows Northward.

And so it begins. The temporal and spiritual battle for control of the hearts and minds of good men, women and all the inhabitants of the Realm, culminating in a lethal confrontation of evil, orchestrated by malignant powers beyond the portal, deep within the confines of the Second Heaven.

It will be Total War or Total Defeat!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Gatekeeper Press
• Release date: Mar 25, 2021
• ISBN: 9781662906411

Book preview

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Preface

An Ancient Scroll reveals the cryptic and apocalyptic words articulated by Queen Leahanna’s late husband K’Thilladorn as seen in a vision moments before his untimely death. His words contain an ominous ring. A prophetical warning predicting future events. For it is the time of the full Blood Moon. It would be a time long anticipated by Evil. A time when a Key would unlock the pathway to wickedness, torture, demon possession and destruction.

Upon a pyramid sat the gateway, an Illuminated Eye beaming brighter as the coveted Key, the Sword of Leahanna, approached. All-the-while from within the portal, an evil influence is being felt, an emerging New World Order set in place by Kalamon. It would further embolden the Muzoule, Gnomes and Trolls to ratchet-up their attack upon the Realm and make way for the Shinning One, the purveyor of Evil.

However, all was not lost. Hope lay deep within the Elfin forest of I’Thillianne. Queen Leahanna and the Wizards of the High-Tower had activated the Tablet of Destinies that lay within the Ark alongside the revived Holy Book of Promise, signaling the Roluks to attack, turning their arrows Northward.

And so it begins. The temporal and spiritual battle for control of the hearts and minds of good men, women and all the inhabitants of the Realm, culminating in a lethal confrontation of evil, orchestrated by malignant powers beyond the portal, deep within the confines of the Second Heaven.

It will be Total War or Total Defeat!

Chapter One

Thargor’s horse carried him swiftly to the West following a well-traveled commercially used thoroughfare. Although his tracks were mingled with those of other travelers, he was astutely aware that Asoph, a Boarder Ranger, was an expert tracker and both he and Atrax were only a half-day, a full day’s ride at most behind him. Continuing for another hour or so on his current path, he abruptly left the main roadway at a predetermined spot and began moving Southwest toward what he knew to be a Muzoule safehouse located near the hill country.

Upon his speedy and unexpected arrival, he hastily dismounted at his destination, a small decrepit shanty hidden in the tall brush behind a sloping hill. Without warning, he flung open the dilapidated door to the crudely built shed, making a loud shuddering crash that shook the whole building to its foundation. Inside, he found three Muzoule and two Draks. They knew immediately who he was and sat quietly without protest, waiting for what was to come next.

You… Over here, barked Thargor, pointing to the big red Muzoule and motioning with his finger to a vacant spot next to him.

Kla-Zumm was the only large red in the room. The other two were of the severely demented cerebrally-hindered black-haired Muzz variety and would certainly not suit his precontrived purpose, at least for what he currently had in mind. Then he pointed at the Draks.

You two… Outside. Now! Be quick about it!

The two Slizzards hissed in disapproval, but obeyed Thargor’s direct command. Outside and near the front of the old shack, Thargor went about detailing the order of what was to be done and their part in it.

You three are to be used as a misdirection. You will be directly responsible for initiating my plan, a plan centered around confusion and misinformation. Do Not Fail… You Will Not Fail, snarled Thargor. Kla-Zumm, you will follow me on your horse, the two Draks are to ride one mount and follow close behind. Also, I will need an extra sword and that small tablecloth.

Without further instruction, the foursome mounted up and promptly headed North in a hurried gallop, back to the point of origin where Thargor had left the highway. There, they were ordered to dismount and standby for instructions.

First, a sword taken from the hideout was wrapped and bound in the tablecloth and given to one of the Draks.

Keep this sword under wraps and bring it back to Drakonia, instructed Thargor. You are to spread the word that you are in possession of the Sword of IL’Aanthena… the Sword of Leahanna. Rumor is that you could be persuaded to sell the Sword if the price were right. Do You Understand?

The Drak snickered and enthusiastically nodded. Savoring the moment, the Slizzard felt honored to have been chosen for the task, completely relishing the idea concerning the underhandedness of the ruse. After all, it’s what Draks do… it’s part of their culture.

Do Not try to cover your trail! Further expounded Thargor loudly, reinforcing his orders. Go… Now!

The Slizzard mounted its steed and briskly rode-off to the South in a gallop. Then Thargor motioned to the remaining Drak.

Come here! he ordered. I will have need of your crescent bladed knife.

The Drak moved closer toward Thargor, hissing and seething with his diamond-shaped reptilian eyes squinting through a furled brow. He was not happy about having to give up his weapon of preference, but he pulled it from his sleeve and reluctantly handed it over.

Now, I want you to Run… run South and make it fast!

The Slizzard started running as instructed.

Thargor calmly motioned with his right hand and shouted, A little more to the left… No… No, Your Other Left… that’s it, keep running.

The Slizzard looked worried. Staring back over his shoulder, he could see Thargor was still gesturing, issuing instructions and reaching for something. The end result didn’t look good.

A little more… Just a little bit more… that’s perfect… Good! Thargor already had his crossbow in hand, loaded it with a poison shaft and slowly took aim. When the Drak was aligned on the right track and just about out of range, he let go his toxic barb. THUNK! A direct hit through the base of the skull. The Slizzard fell dead.

Kla-Zumm smirked, Right on target… O’ Great One… Draks are nothing but a pain anyway, he drooled with amusement. His boisterous laughter revealed no show of feeling or remorse. Next… he laughed boisterously as though speaking to a large crowd of on-lookers, anybody… is there anybody else, he cogitated, mockingly spreading his arms wide and slowly turning in a tight circle, then paused, What? No Volunteers? Looks like we’re done here my glorious leader. What now would be your new orders, your Greatness?

Take off your cloak, Thargor gruffly demanded. He had no time for Kla-Zumm’s theatrics. We will change clothing… Do it! Do it Now!

Kla-Zumm caved to Thargor’s demands immediately and the swap was made.

What else might you require Imperial-One, he soberly asked.

Stand Still… Don’t Move, Thargor instructed. He was now tightly clutching the Drak’s gleaming crescent-shaped blade at his side and out of sight.

Good! Very Good… Thargor in one quick surprising stroke severed both sets of carotid and juggler veins deep within the neck of his new victim.

Eyes protruding, Kla-Zumm’s hands went immediately to his throat. A sickening gurgling-gasp came from his upper body as blood bubbled, pumped and spurted from the neck of the fell beast. Then a sucking sound gasped through the wind-pipe as he made a futile attempt to breathe, extinguished by more burbled-gurgling buried in a pulsing river of blood. Writhing in pain, squirming, thrashing unable to speak or even scream, Kla-Zumm dropped to his knees; then to the ground in a puddle of his own rancid blood. His sight grew dim, then the light went out. Just a dull empty gaze. The hefty Muzoule bled-out in less than five minutes. He was done. Done in Slizzard style.

The Evil-One thanks you for your sacrifice… he chuckled with a sardonic grin, One more to go, remarked Thargor.

Grabbing the reins of his horse, he walked him near and around the body of Kla-Zumm, purposefully kicking up vegetation and leaving prints in the sandy soil throughout the area. Then as in the case of Kla-Zumm, he slit the throat of the innocent steed with the intent of leaving his bleeding corpse to suffer next to his previous victim. Thargor’s horse tried feebly to stand, wincing it shivered, digging at the ground with his weak and trembling front legs, but kept falling helplessly. Then, he too was gone.

Thargor showed no signs of passion, no sign of regret. Instead, he laid his crossbow and an open side-pouch of poison darts alongside the bodies, scattering a few on the ground here and there, hoping to enhance the signs that a skirmish had taken place.

Next, he threw the Drak dagger atop of Kla-Zumm, tied the wrapped Sword of Leahanna across the saddle of his new mount and back-tracked up onto the main road.

He then pulled the bulky hood of his traveler’s cloak over his head, hiding from view his Muzoulean features and giving the appearance of a merchant courier en-route as he had done previously. His journey would have him travel another mile or two; then, turn North, leaving the highway, heading toward Wizard’s Keep. It was the quickest route and seemingly the least likely choice to his adversaries.

Sleezhazi was not stupid. Draks were known for their extreme cunning and would, given time, outwit Thargor.

Riding her mount South and over a hill out of view, she circled back and watched the large Muzoule murder her compatriots. In anger she watched Thargor ruthlessly slaughter her lifelong mate as he was forced to run for his life. That vision alone would haunt her for all her days. She would even the score.

However, revenge wasn’t the only motivating force driving her emotions and her desire to act. She would retrieve the real Sword and bring it to Briars Keep. Sleezhazi knew the Sword’s true value. She knew for a fact that the Sword of Leahanna would fetch a pretty penny from those in power.

First she would hide the Sword close by; then upon her arrival at the Keep, she would tauntingly ask for its weight in gold. The transaction would be all but guaranteed. Upon production of the fabled blade, the exchange would be made, and her wealth would immediately expand beyond her wildest dreams. Her profit would be great. She would do this in memory of her now lifeless companion. Now it was personal.

Sleezhazi rode her mount slow and cautiously past the scene of the massacre, surveying the terrain and being careful not to move or disturb any of the ruthlessly staged signs left behind. She knew that whoever was on Thargor’s trail would only hinder her efforts to retrieve the Sword if the ruse were not fully played out. This in her mind was her only chance to follow the large Muzoule, kill him in his sleep and grab the Sword for herself. She would have her revenge. Her vengeance would be sweet and she would savor it fully.

* * * * *

Asoph and Atrax followed the trail of mixed hoofprints left on the main thoroughfare, sorting out the most commonly traveled plods from the heavier weighted singular tracks left behind by the big red Muzoule. Soon after becoming attuned to the pattern, the path began to stand-out with remarkable clarity.

Eventually the sequence of weighted ungulate hooves led off-road to a partially hidden field not far from the main highway. Asoph followed, but then came to an immediate halt. The stench from the scene that came into view was horrific. Both he and Atrax moved in for a closer examination. Atrax wasn’t taking any chances. He already had Gainslayer in hand ready for trouble.

At first impression, it appeared to be a Drak ambush similar to the one that had occurred with Oliver and Jeremy at the boat. But something didn’t add-up.

This is unquestionably the horse we’ve been tracking, said Atrax. Look at the size and shape of the hooves. And look at that one’s neck… for sure the work of a Drak.

All the signs sure make it appear that way… and look there… a trail leading South toward Drakland and a dead Slizzard out there in the distance, commented Asoph, waving the stench and flying insects from his sight. It looks like the Drak slit the throats of big-red and his horse and before he could get away, the Muzoule in his dying breath shot him dead with a poison dart. Then, the other Slizzard grabbed the Sword and galloped South. At least that’s what we’re supposed to think.

Well then… should we track-down the Drak rider carrying the Sword? asked Atrax.

Don’t know yet… Something stinks, and I’m thinkin’ it’s more than the pungent odor of that big oversized Muzz lying there. Said Asoph, I have my suspicions whether this particular Muzoule is even the original quarry we’ve been trackin’… my guess is our large shifty red-haired friend wants us to follow the Drak rider South. That would give him the time he needs to move the actual Sword of Leahanna North. And another thing that bothers me… that Drak blade was left behind, still lying there on top of big-red. Seems like during the altercation it would have ended-up lying on the ground. Plus… No Slizzard worth his salt would ever leave his much treasured assassin’s dagger behind… it’s not how they operate.

Atrax, you stay here… I’m going to follow that Slizzard for a mile or two. I’ll be right back, stated Asoph.

Okay, said Atrax, Not a problem… I’ll search the area for more clues.

Asoph didn’t need to travel far. The Drak trail led behind a hill and doubled back toward the scene of the carnage. Asoph hurried back straight away.

Atrax… It’s exactly as we thought, he shouted, still in a gallop in the direction of his Dwarven friend, someone is working overtime to play us for a couple of suckers!

Precisely my thinkin’, Atrax replied in agreement, and guess what… to further prove your point, I just found another set of hooves tracking to the North.

Let’s go… we need to head out fast, urged Asoph. It appears the Sword is back on its original path, but now we’ve got two sets of tracks to follow.

Chapter Two

Enos ushered the jostling wagon through the South Gate as the sun began to set. He was happy to once again be within the walls of the Keep. Even Scuzzbag appeared to be excited, perched on his hind legs, tail wagging and front paws dancing anxiously upon the forward rail. Both Ethylene and Bilford had already fallen asleep, leaning on each other with legs dangling from the rear of the carriage. A long day and the constant rocky rhythm of wheels on a bumpy road had finally caused them to become groggy; sitting upright and leaning shoulder-to-shoulder, they had drifted to a peaceful slumber.

Enos pulled the wagon alongside the entry to the Royal Livery and unhitched the horses. The attendant took the reins and led them to an area within the stable and prepared to brush and feed them.

Well, we’re here, announced Enos from the front of the cart, reaching up to grab Scuzzy. Hey, you two… wake up… time to unload.

Enos thought about what he just said, setting Scuzzbag to the ground, Ooh No… Oh no you don’t… no, no, no… not here you don’t.

But it was too late. Scuzzy began to sniff, warble and move about in an all too familiar pattern. Then he unloaded.

Ugh… Good Lord… Saints Preserve us! winced Enos. The odor was almost unbearable to the old shipwright. Well, I guess if ya gotta go, ya gotta go. But I’m thinkin’ we still need to work on some sort of advance warning system or somethin’… maybe some sort of internal floral fragrance enhancer, either that or completely change your diet.

Scuzzbag tilted his fluffy head innocently to the side as he gazed up with bright eyes toward Enos looking for kudos on a job well done. Adding further emphasis, he scratched at the ground with all four paws, churning up grass clippings and dirt, then merrily frolicked off toward the castle.

By now, both Ethylene and Bilford had awakened, glad to have arrived at the Keep.

Ugh… what’s that smell, inquired Bilford yawning.

Guess… retorted Enos. Ethylene just giggled.

A horse drawn carriage was already awaiting their arrival. The driver had previously been briefed and prompted, set to carry the trio to the front entrance of the palace.

Scuzzy, Enos called out to the little fluff-ball. Get back here… Looks like we’ve got a ride to the castle.

Ethyl and Bilford climbed into the back of the carriage as Enos waited for Scuzzbag to return.

This will just take a minute, assured Enos to the driver.

Scuzzbag lifted his leg and marked a wagon wheel as per doggie protocol. Then sniffing about, he noted that everything seemed to meet with his approval and so gave his gracious and official endorsement in canine manner, everything was good-to-go.

Good. Now that that’s over-with, said Enos jumping into the cart with Scuzzy under his arm, Looks like we’re ready to hit-the-road.

The carriage-driver nodded, smiled and the wagon started its journey through the streets of the city-fortress, past markets, shops, gorgeous landscaping and the eloquently styled homes of the inhabitants on its path toward the palace.

This is absolutely beautiful, remarked Ethylene in awe. I’ve never seen anything like this… I need to get out of the forest more often… and look there… a shop that sells sunhats and dresses. Oh, can we stop… please?

I’d love to, said Enos, But don’t forget… we need to meet with your father before he leaves on business.

Oh… I almost forgot, said Ethylene, I’m sorry… It’s just that there are so many nice things and places to see… I guess I forgot myself for a minute. Bilford just smiled. Her enthusiasm for life within the Keep was contagious.

Upon arriving, they were greeted by a two centurions at the main entrance.

Greetings, friends, said one of the guards, We have been expecting you. Please follow me.

The two sentinels abruptly snapped-to and turned with a loud clash of armor in military fashion, then started to their destination down a myriad of hallways, casually followed by Enos, Bilford, Ethylene and Scuzzy romping and wagging his tail, wondering where and what to mark first.

Ethylene! Over here, shouted Kalazar in a happy uplifting voice, I was wondering if you’d make it here before it was time for me to leave. I’m so glad you did!

Papa! Ethylene cried out as she ran to give her father a big hug. I’ve missed you too! You were in my thoughts all along the way… did you see all the shops on your way in… there’s so many… and they’re just all over the place and I was thinking Papa should see this, she exclaimed with mixed thoughts of excitement.

Her father knew she was up to something. After all, she was a typical teenage girl, smart, but typical.

Papa… Papa… Did you see ‘em… I mean, all the shops, the restaurants and the dresses and more hat-shops and more dresses… and… and…

Kalazar laughed. Yes, yes… we can go shopping when I get back.

Enos smiled and laughed along with both Kalazar and Bilford. It was good to see the excitement in her eyes, certainly heartwarming for Kalazar, a doting father.

And where’s Scuzzy, asked the Wizard. Ahh… there he is… have you been staying out of trouble?

Arf, Arf… yipe, arf, echoed the little fluffball, as if to say, Here I am and Nope.

And Bilford, my young friend, Kalazar reached over placing an arm firmly across the young El’dwar’s shoulders. You’ve had a grave responsibility come to bear in recent weeks, and you’ve had to grow-up fast. You did good, and I’m proud of you.

Bilford stood almost at attention, welled-up with pride in himself. Not a showy selfish pride, but of the type that builds one’s self-confidence in a job well done.

Thank you sir… I mean Mr. Wizard Sir, said Bilford red-faced trying to hold back an embarrassingly awkward smile as his gazed drifted toward Ethylene.

Enos thought back to when he was young. It brought to mind the advice that his parents had once given to him, If you raise up a child in the way he should go, when he grows old he won’t depart from it. Good advice, and yes, he too was proud of Bilford.

Kalazar turned to Enos, shaking his hand and while patting him firmly on the arm asked, Any trouble on-the-road after I had left?

Nah… just a brief encounter with some thievin’ eyeball-rollin’ dufuss, but Ethylene scared him to a dead faint.

Yeah, she’s been known to do that from time-to-time, said Kalazar. Sometimes she can be a little stinker if you don’t keep an eye on her. The Wizard chuckled.

Awh Papa… quit that, smiled Ethylene, playfully slapping the old Wizard on arm, don’t listen to him… he’s just kidding.

King Hagar and Galen greeted the trio of newcomers in the hallway and mentioned to the old Wizard as a reminder that both Kalgarad and Kalagorn had already made their departure.

Time for me to go, said the old Wizard. With a snap of the finger, his staff appeared in the grasp of his right hand. He nodded and with flick of the mystical cudgel he was gone, only to immediately re-appear at the step of Wizard’s Keep.

Let me show you three to your rooms, you can get settled-in and then, let’s grab a bite to eat, said Galen. Why don’t we meet back here in say…oh about an hour and thirty minutes. That should give you time to unpack and freshen-up a little.

I would certainly enjoy having dinner with you, said the King, but unfortunately, I too have some business of my own to attend to… duty calls, apologized Hagar. The King made a slight bow of courtesy and made his way from the hall.

All the others in the group bowed deeply and thanked him for his hospitality.

Bilford and Enos… you two can have the same room as the last time you were here. I’m sure you know the way said Galen. But you might want to keep Bilford away from the tapestries, he said lightheartedly with smile. Oh, and I’m sure little Scuzzy will want to stay with you too… but I’m thinkin’ it’s best to keep him away from the tapestries as well… he has a reputation. Then they all laughed, including Scuzzbag. Arf, Arf…"

Ethylene… Galen addressed the young teen, I will personally show you to your room. You will be staying down-the-hall adjacent to Olive Spuddle’s living quarters. She, for reference sake, is the daughter of Chef Spuddle and close to your age. I’m sure you two will have lots to talk about… she loves to shop, he said with a smile.

I like her already, beamed Ethylene in excitement.

After the allotted time had passed, Galen met with the guests. Ethylene had already been introduced to Olive and Galen escorted them both to the dining hall. Enos said they would be along shortly but needed to take a momentary doggie detour.

Chef Spuddle had prepared in advance a late supper for the newly arrived guests. Although Olive and Ethylene had just met, they were already at the table chatting and giggling.

Meanwhile, Bilford and Enos were on their way down the stairs, out the door and about to cross the street leading to the mess-hall. They made it through the door just in the nick of time. Scuzzbag was in definite need of a serious rest-stop.

You about done, said Enos impatiently tapping his foot.

Scuzzbag’s nose sniffed and bobbed, sweeping the air gesturing toward a new alluring and aromatic scent. Whatever it was, smelled savory and delicious; the fragrance was like a succulent beacon directing him in a hurried romp to the vicinity of the kitchen.

Ahh… it’s about time you showed up, greeted Chef Spuddle. I was beginning to think you didn’t like my cooking. Good to see you again.

The three shook hands and laughed.

And you, my small furry friend, the Chef smiled, have I got something special for you…

The kindly Royal Chef lifted the domed cover from a silver serving tray. Beneath was the biggest meaty hambone that Scuzzy had ever seen.

Let’s go outside behind the kitchen, there’s even more treats there for you.

Scuzzbag didn’t need convincing. His fluffy tail wagged speedily in a wild circular motion, signaling he was one hundred percent on board with the plan.

Arf, arf… let’s go… I’m ready, smacking his chops. Enos and Bilford laughed.

The group lined-up to partake of the meal, which was to be self-served buffet style, which offered a greater diversity of luscious treats and main course selections.

Chef Spuddle upon returning to the banquet room noticed that one of the Royal Dining-Staff seemed to be spending an inordinate amount of time around and near Olive and Ethylene’s table. It seemed a little odd, but not totally unusual, but still. The employee seemed a little over attentive, hovering near the girls and not paying much attention to the other tables.

This particular staff-member had worked as a kitchen-staffer for many years and Spuddle didn’t see any real reason for alarm. But just the same, he moved in for a closer look. Then it struck him square between the eyes.

He looked at Olive and then to the worker.

It’s absolutely uncanny, thought the Chef out loud. Why hadn’t I noticed this before now?

The woman caught Spuddle’s glance and started to rush off.

Hey… you there. Stop right where you are, demanded Chef Spuddle in an authoritative voice.

She came to a halt and turned to face Spuddle. Her eyes were misty and red with a small droplet streaming from one side. She had been found out and worried that she might lose her job. But most of all, she did not want to lose the only contact she had with her son and daughter all these years.

What’s your name? he demanded.

Tachotan (Tочotaн, Tah. cha. tan), she said and she started to cry.

Tachotan… It would not be a far reach to say… to say that… that you are the mother of both Olive and Oliver. Would that be a correct statement… Am I correct?

Yes sir, she said in a slight whimper." Now Chef Spuddle’s eyes began to mist and blur as they grew moist, welling-up with tears. He fondly recalled bygone days as mental images flashed rapidly through the years.

Do not be afraid, the big man reached out and held her close. He could feel her shake, whimpering almost uncontrollably as a watery torrent of tears streamed down the sides of her face. Your secret is safe, but I think it will soon be time that you let me introduce you to your children… our children.

Chef Spuddle held her close, and she looked up smiling through bright tearful eyes.

Oh thank you… thank you, Tachotan could scarcely whisper, her voice filled with emotion, feelings of joy. Spuddle too, felt the joy between them. It was a long time coming.

But do me a favor… requested Spuddle with a wide grin.

Yes… what is it… anything, she said eagerly.

Please… P-l-e-a-s-e don’t bring me any more Olive Baskets, she froze momentarily, then looked up with a guilty expression as though to say, Who Me? and they both broke into a hilariously loud chuckle. There was no hiding it. She was without a doubt Olive’s mother.

Enos and Bilford started to make their way toward the buffet. Bilford was feeling a bit lonely after being so close to Ethylene the past few days and noticed the two girls chatting away, but this time over a pink cosmetic bag.

What are they doin’ over there? Bilford inquired.

Girl talk, replied Enos.

Girl talk? Well, wadda they talkin’ about?

Believe me, you don’t wanna know, replied Enos.

Bilford dropped the subject as-soon-as he laid eyes on the buffet. After all, he was an El’dwar, and he be food. Both Enos and Bilford loaded up their plates stacked high with fried chicken, sliced baked ham, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes and corn-on-the-cob. Then, topped it all off with a large slice of strawberry-rhubarb pie, which they managed to throw on top of the mountainous heap.

On the way back to the table Bilford noticed both girls were gone. Well, that’ll have to wait till later. They both had some serious business to attend to, being El’dwars and all.

Galen saw the girls returning from the ladies convenience and decided it best he excuse himself. If what he was seeing was real, he didn’t want to get mixed up in it.

Well guys, I’ve got to go… got some stuff that needs my attention. There’s more food at the buffet if you want it. Help yourselves. Galen excused himself and hurried out the door.

Bilford looked up from his plate and happened to notice the girls were on their way back and heading his direction.

Hey Enos… is the circus back in town or somethin’? he asked quizzically, with an ambiguous smile, not quite sure how he should address the situation.

Now you watch your mouth, boy, said Enos, looking up. But he too started to chuckle a bit. I taught you to be courteous.

Ethylene, closely trailed by Olive, stood in front of Bilford and Enos. Holding her hands on her hips, she performed a slight curtsy swaying to the left then to the right.

Well… What do you think? inquired Ethylene. It’s my new glamour look…

Bilford was trying hard not to laugh.

Well-l-l… umm… gee-whizz, I don’t know… there aren’t any words, at least I can’t think of any, said Bilford trying hard to contain himself.

This lip-gloss stuff kinda gives me the full-bodied alluring lip-look like all the ladies of the theater… don’t you think? Not to mention my eyes are now more interesting and appear much larger with this shadow and lash kit that Olive gave me.

As she spoke one eyelash began to droop, then fell to the floor.

Oops… Looks like I need a little more work on that one… maybe more glue, too… but what about this red stuff on my cheeks… it gives me the look of higher cheek-bones. Olive said I need a bit more practice with it though, but she said I’ll be fine in time, maybe ease-off a little on the lip-gloss.

Ah… yeah… I’ll say, I mean… um yeah, right, replied Bilford. Now hardly able to hold back his laughter any longer. Enos nudged him and gave him a stern look.

Oh Bilford… I just knew you’d like it! and she gave him a big hug and a quick peck on the forehead and did an about-face and was off again with Olive for more girl talk.

Huh? Bilford sat in a daze, wondering what had just happened.

Enos couldn’t take it any longer. Even he had to admit the whole scene was comical and hilariously funny, and the confused expression on Bilford’s face was far more comical than the old shipwright was able to bare. He slapped his knee in utter amusement and howled out loud with sidesplitting laughter.

Well Bilford, chuckled Enos, Now you know about girl-talk.

That’s some scary stuff, said Bilford in reply. I mean S-C-A-A-A-R-Y.

Both Tachotan and Chef Spuddle were watching the girls fondly from a distance.

I think that maybe it’s best that we wait and tell Olive and Oliver about their heritage together after Oliver returns from his mission, said Spuddle pensively. What do you think?

I believe you’re right, replied Olive’s mother. She was now leaning on the Chef with his arm about her shoulders. There was a strong mutual attraction which had now finally connected.

Oh… and one more thing, interjected Spuddle, Olive now insists that she be called Olivia. She says it sounds more glamorous, stately, popular or whatever.

Kids… replied Tachotan beaming cheerfully in her heavy accent, not exactly a Roluk name of choice, but neither was Olive.

Well now, who’s to blame for that, joked Spuddle. In humor, they both looked to each other with a smile that turned to outright laughter.

Okay… Okay… No more baskets, she promised.

Bilford was just finishing up his plate of goodies and thought to go back for a second helping. Looking toward the buffet he noticed the girls were gone again. He nudged Enos.

More girl talk I suppose, shrugging his shoulders, boy, I can’t wait to see what comes out next.

The words had barely left Bilford’s mouth and out came Ethylene and Olivia. This time the slate had been wiped clean. Not one trace or iota of makeup could be seen on either of the girl’s faces.

We’re done with makeup training for the day… tomorrow comes the Night-Cream Medley. It’s guaranteed to keep you as fresh as a cucumber and wrinkle-free.

Wow… I can’t wait, said Bilford, I’ll be counting the minutes.

Oh quit that… said Ethylene. You want me to stay fresh and alluring and wrinkle free, don’t you?

Well, ah yeah… say, you want the last bite of my chicken leg before I go back up for more? Maybe you want me to bring ya back some pie, too…

No. Definitely not… Ethylene interrupted. Olivia says a girl has to watch her figure… and you can never start too soon.

Hm-m-m… Okay, but you’re missing out on some really good pie.

Olivia also said a girl has to exercise if she wants to stay attractive and in shape. So, let’s go for a walk… come on… it’ll be fun.

Boy, that Olivia… Bilford thought quietly to himself, now I know why Oliver always says he wants to throttle her… I thought he was only kidding.

Bilford got up from his place at the table and grabbed some cookies to put in his cloak in preparation for a long walk throughout the city.

Enos figured it was time for him to get going as well. Scuzzy is about due for his nightly walk, and now it looks like Bilford was due for his too; and so the three left the mess-hall.

The early evening was balmy for that time of the year. Ethylene and Bilford left the mess-hall holding hands, the two interlocked arms swaying in rhythm with their leisurely steps as they joked and kidded about the virtues of makeup application and other such oddities.

Ethylene…

Yes Bilford…

You know that you are absolutely beautiful, complimented Bilford, you are without doubt one of the most glamorous girls I’ve ever seen… maybe even the most beautifullest of women in the whole wide world.

Why thank you Bilford… what a nice compliment, swooned Ethylene, you’re so sweet and such a gentleman, too.

Well, I guess what I’m trying to say is… you don’t need all that goo and paint on your face. You’re already gorgeous and attractive. All that other face-stuff detracts from who you really are, from your natural beauty. It covers it up.

I really don’t believe in it either, said Ethylene, but I’m having fun and it gives me something in common with Olivia… I think she needs a friend, and besides, there’s nothing really like it in the Black Forest. It’s kinda different, crazy and exciting all at the same time, goofy as-well-as fun. At least for a girl from the woodlands.

Oh yeah… that Girl-Talk thing Enos was talkin’ about, replied Bilford. Well it doesn’t really matter, I guess. All I know is that you are as beautiful inside as you are out. To me, that’s what really matters.

Ethylene tightly pressed his palm warmly, squeezing tenderly as she gazed affectionately into his eyes. They continued to hold hands, strolling through the streets observing all the marvelous sights around and near the main citadel.

Eventually they came to rest alongside the battlements at the top of the West wall. The night sky shown in all its starlit beauty, and from behind, Bilford politely rested his arms around Ethylene’s waist. She leaned comfortably back against him and they both focused their view to the Northwest through one of the spaced openings of the bastion.

Bilford, this is an absolutely spectacular view, marveled Ethylene in awe, It all seems so quiet, peaceful and soothing. I never dreamed the world could be so beautiful.

Bilford agreed, but he wasn’t looking at the view, at least not the same one Ethylene was talking about. Then there was a flash in the distance; then another one. He noticed the night sky light up again and again with a series of flashes farther out toward Wizard’s Keep.

Looks like rain, said Bilford, Maybe we’d better start heading back… look there, more lightning and storm clouds are gathering.

Don’t worry my precious, said Ethylene, It’s just Papa… He’s working again.

* * * * *

Three Wizards stood atop the summit of the grass covered knoll overlooking the smoldering crater of what used to be Wizard’s Keep. Each mystical silhouette cast an elongated shadow against the star-filled night as they pondered the evening’s previous event.

Far-off to the distant Northwest, they could see the pulsing glow of an Evil-Eye sweeping the area around and near the pyramid on which it rested. The malevolent sight of the wickedly throbbing eye hardened their hearts and their resolve to act quickly.

Then, we are all in agreement… It’s Time.

Time to fully develop, fine-tune and implement our plan. We will give no quarter, no mercy, show no compassion or leniency to the evil that threatens our way of life and the love for our Creator. We will provide an open pathway to the defeat of the Evil-One and his deplorable minions, remarked Kalgarad.

All three nodded their approval and they turned back-to-back, extended their staves and started moving clockwise, dragging each