The walk seems endless. Ahead, a flock of crows gathers on one spot of the pathway, eating the remains of an old loaf of bread someone must have dropped. The heat rises as the sun reaches its high point at the top of the sky. The Mystic Woods is ahead you know it must be called this for a reason, but you do not let superstition disturb your journey, for the cursed childrens fate depends on your courage. Besides, you are not afraid of Hexadaria and her madness. Entering the woods, the sun penetrates the branches only with difficulty, and everything becomes darker. You become uneasy as owls hoot and scuffle in the treetops.

If you can pass these woods, the town of Gandornia lies on a hilltop not far away, says Sparky nervously.

Perhaps someone there will know how to find the Magical Pond, you reply.

Suddenly, a huge branch falls in front of your feet and many elves jump from the trees to surround you. They have long pointed ears and light greenish skin. They giggle and skip around, trying to tease you. Speaking in a language you do not understand, they continue to mumble and laugh among themselves. You try to move forward, but they jump aside only to again leap in front of you.

Frustrated, you scream, What do you want from me?

The elves continue to giggle and tease you. Oh why did I choose to go in these forsaken woods? you ask yourself. Sparky, now frightened, leaps from your shoulder and flies away, landing on a branch high above your head. A tall elf steps in front of you. His face is serious and he flexes his arms. He stands at least two feet taller then you.

You are a human and not an elf, he begins in your language. You do not belong in these woods and should leave immediately. Your skin is not of green color and you do not speak our language. The big elf comes closer, trying to intimidate you. He inspects your clothing. Your heart beats faster as other elves gather in closer and prevent you from walking ahead. Finally the big elf gives out a sigh and says, You do not even have pointed ears like we do.

You become tense and must think quickly.



1. If you are carrying a staff and want to ask its advice, turn to chapter 48.
2.
3. If you want to fight the big elf, turn to chapter 14.
4.
5. If you want to talk peacefully to the elf, turn to chapter 99.
6.