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Chapter #4
They search the Forrest of Despair
by: Unknown
“But Mother, where shall we go? We have been unable to locate a map that will lead us to the Crown.” Said Ava.
The evil Queen cackled. She walked over to the corner of her throne room. She then open a long narrow basket. Inside, were various pieces of magical literature, and maps. She decided on one and pulled out a dusty parchment. She handed it to Cassius.
“What is this my Queen?” Asked Emmarus.
“That is your guide. I suggest you follow it.” Said Amber.
“But mother, this map is incomplete. It only details the paths through the Forrest of Despair! Are you telling us we must search the entire wood?” Asked Cassius.
“Daughter,” Said Queen Amber “you must look beyond the lines. I assure you that once inside the Forest you will understand what the purpose of the map is. I could retrieve the Crown, but I am too weak, and without the Crown itself, I do not have the power to find it.”
The three daughters vowed. Each made a promise that they would never let their Queen down. Amber reminded them of the consequences should they fail, before bidding them farewell.
The three sisters walked briskly out of the castle. All that was left was a journey. Their destination was about a days walk North. The first hour was silent.
“My dear sisters. I have had a most grave thought: When we retrieve this Crown, shall we use it ourselves?” Asked Ava.
“No. We mustn’t. It is for the head of the Queen. And the Queen only. Don’t be foolish, and don’t forget your place. You may be stronger, but I am 100 years your elder. You cannot let your lust cloud your judgement.” Said Cassius.
Ava remained silent until they reached the wood. It was almost nightfall, and the skies darkened. Nevertheless, they pressed on. They had to find the Crown this night.
They began to creep through the woods. Each moment there was a distant creaking or howl. They walked onward for what seemed like an eternity. They almost gave up. Suddenly, the came to a clearing.
“This is not on the Map.” Said Emmarus. She turned it upside down and sideways looking for the clearing. It was not to be found.
“This is it. It has to be. Our efforts shall be rewarded. I sense that the Crown is within our grasp!” Said Ava.
“Look! Ahead. There is a point in the center of the clearing that is lit far brighter by the moon. I have read stories about the writing of tree elves. You must put the map under this light. It will reveal the location we seek.” Said Cassius.
Emmarus ran over to the center. Indeed the moon was shining incredibly bright in the spot. She raised the map. The three watched in awe as red lines began to draw themselves on the map. The all converged at a spot not 50 feet away.
The hurried, following the map to a thick tangled cluster of bushes. Inside the protective layer, was a hole that led underground.
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