Chapter Two
Friends

Teedol ran without stopping, though he did stumble several times. Each time he did so, he was filled with a deep sense of panic, being sure he could hear the crashing sound of the cavern walls collapsing behind him. Finally, he reached the boundary of the woods and was feeling much safer. Soon he would be home in his little cottage. Entering the woods he knew so well, a strange uneasy feeling came over him. His senses were acute, there was sure something was not right. Even with his keen eyesight, he could see nothing wrong, yet he could not rid himself of this strange feeling. The cotchit slowed down, still moving forward cautiously. The light dimmed suddenly as if the sun had been stolen. An eeriness which caused foreboding filled the place making it feel completely strange and unknown to Teedol. Trees appeared intimidating, reaching higher than normal, yet, at the same time, they seemed to lean towards the cotchit in a menacing way.

Teedol, filled with yet more panic, turned to run, but the whole place was different. He recognized nothing, not even the familiar path which would lead him home. Large tangles of razor sharp brambles coiled and twisted, reaching out closer and closer to the now terrified little creature. The strands came from here, there and everywhere, sneaking along the ground like deadly serpents, snarls of brambles writhing and coiling themselves around Teedol's limbs, gripping tighter and tighter with each new spiral, tearing at his clothing and cutting into his flesh...

Teedol's arms and legs were being pulled, as if the brambles were trying to tear him limb from limb. He tried to scream but the sounds were stifled as if to smother him. His mind reeling, searching desperately for a solution to his dilemma. Coils now wound around his neck choking the very essence of life from his body. His mind went blank, then there was nothing, except for a blackness which engulfed his very soul.

Teedol thought or at least hoped is was all a nightmare...

He found himself tangled in a small bush of briars, into which he had fallen head first. Slowly he picked his way out of the undergrowth and checked himself. He found that he only had one or two minor grazes. All around him things were as they should be, the path, the trees and more importantly the way home he knew so well was only feet away.

He had no idea if Golaf were alive or dead, though truthfully his main concern at this moment in time was to get home as quickly and safely as possible. The journey took him five minutes although it was a distance of over two and a half miles.

Before realizing where he was, Teedol burst in through the front door of his home and stumbled into his favourite chair by the side of the fire. In his head, a resounding noise, the racing beat of his heart. A noise so loud it seemed as though his head would explode at any moment. He gave a loud sigh. Before he knew what was happening he was into darkness. Panic struck deep into his heart once more. Silently, from behind him, hands reached around covering his eyes.

" Oh, Pippa ! You scared me half to death. " Said Teedol with a sigh of relief.

" Where have you been ? I thought you would have been back long before now. " Replied Pippa with a smile and yet with consternation in her voice. Teedol let out another loud sigh. He took a deep breath and recomposed himself. Pippa was Teedol's cousin and had come to stay with him for a while. She was a cotchit from the Greater Shire, her father was the brother of Teedol's father and, therefore, one of the many links which still connected the Greater Shire with Manap Woods. Shire Woods, as it was affectionately known, was The Great Shire, while Manap Woods was known as The Little Shire. Between the two lay vast plains intersected by the Red Mountains. Both the plains and the mountains were known as Bad places. Large bands of ghedi and nomadic dwarves roamed the plains. The ghedi would come down from the mountains scavenging for food, which could be anything from a wild animal to a lost traveller. Irrespective, their fates would be the same. An orcan cooking pot. If the ghedi and dwarves met the result was always the same, bloody battle. The reputation of the dwarves was no better, though there had never been any proof they had gone mad with so much fighting. Pippa walked from behind Teedol's chair sensing something was wrong with her cousin. She was about to sit down opposite him when she shrieked loudly.

" What ? What's that ? " She asked pointing to Teedol's forehead. Teedol thought a moment before answering.

" It would take too long to explain now and again later when Bobo comes. Speaking of Bobo, have you seen him ? " Asked Teedol.

" Yes, he called about half an hour ago for you but he did say he would be back soon. " Replied Pippa.

" Good ! He will not be long then. Would you be good enough to make a drink and some food ? " Asked Teedol.

" No, I wouldn't mind. Should I make something for Bobo when he comes ? " Inquired Pippa. " I think something light will do. Will you join us ? " Inquired Teedol.

" Thank you, but I've already eaten. You have been gone longer than usual . " Replied Pippa.

" Yes of course, I had forgotten that, but then it has been a most unusual day. Oh yes, that reminds me. Would you help me to pack later ? I have to go away. " Added Teedol matter of factly.

" A journey ? Where to ? " Asked Pippa with concern. It was most abnormal for Teedol to be so secretive and Pippa felt as if he were being very reticent.

" My dear Pippa, I have told you, it would take too long to explain right now and then again when my friend arrives. Rest assured you will find out in due course, that is when Bobo arrives. Oh yes ! While I think of it, did you mention to Bobo what we discussed earlier ? " Asked Teedol with a slight chuckle.

Pippa blushed before she answered. " No, I thought I would wait for you, you know, for a bit of moral support. " Teedol did not hesitate with his reply.

" O.K. I understand. I will have a word with Bobo later, after I have finished my business. " Pippa smiled at her cousin and said.

" Fine, I will go and sort out some food. I shall also get something sorted for you to take on your journey. " Pippa turned and headed for the kitchen. Teedol got up from his chair and went off to start packing.

Pippa and Bobo had known each other for three years now. Ever since the first meeting they had liked each other. At some stage of their friendship the liking had turned to love, yet neither had dared to say anything to the other for fear of spoiling such a beautiful friendship. Pippa had told Teedol of her feelings for Bobo, as indeed Bobo had expressed the same feelings about Pippa. Teedol now thought it was time they sorted out their lives for themselves.

The two cousins had just sat down with a hot drink when Bobo arrived. The door clicked shut as he turned to face the two friends now looking at him. Bobo's gaze becoming transfixed upon Teedol, or to be more precise, Teedol's forehead. He stood mouth agape, not able to utter a sound. The scene remained unchanged for some time until Teedol finally spoke.

" Well ? Don't just stand there, come and sit down. I have a rather long and interesting story to tell you. It will take some time, so I suggest you make yourself warm and comfortable. Have a drink and something to eat. Pippa, would you be good enough to make a hot drink for Bobo please ? " Pippa merely nodded in agreement and went off to the kitchen.

Since Bobo's arrival Pippa had come over all coy. She returned quickly with a hot drink for Bobo and a plate of yumyums. ( Custard Doughnuts ). Setting them down on the table she sat back down opposite her loved one. Picking up the plate once more she offered them to Bobo. It was now his turn to blush as he took a yumyum. He tried desperately to hide his feelings of embarrassment, but to little avail.

Teedol smiled at his friends. Slowly turning his head towards the floor he drew in a deep breath. Again he turned to face his friends and began to tell his tale. " I have a strange story to tell, though I do assure you that every word is completely true. It is, therefore, very important that you listen carefully and take it seriously. "

The cotchit paused, taking another deep breath. He then went on to tell of the day's happenings missing out only the very minor details.

Time was moving on, dusk had fallen and the light within the cottage had faded. Teedol continued to talk as he rose from his chair. He moved over to the lamp which was suspended three feet away and above him. Taking a match from his pocket he struck it on the side of the lamp. A small area on the lamp existed just for this purpose. Still talking, he lifted the glass , turned up the wick and lit it. He then returned to his seat.

Teedol was about done with the story when the light above him flickered and began to fade. Slowly the light extinguished putting the room into semi -darkness, shadows danced about the walls. Even darker shadows lurked in corners, seemingly solid and immovable. At first this caused no concern. Teedol thought the fuel within the lamp had run out, though he was sure he had filled the lamp only that morning.

Teedol rose from his seat. " Stay where you are, I will see to it. " He said raising a hand. He reached out to the lamp and picked it up. It was heavy and made a sloshing sound as if it were still full. There was a sudden sound from somewhere behind which startled Teedol so much he dropped the lamp. There was a loud clattering noise followed by the sound of breaking glass. Pippa gave a loud scream. In the corner furthest away from the trio, the darkness seemed to gather and condense. Twisting into irregular shapes until it began to take form.

The shape was gargoyle in appearance, though the flesh pulsated and contorted with foul smelling liquid oozing from orifices, like large steaming pustules.

The star upon Teedol's head now pulsated with increasing rapidity. Pippa screamed again, falling into a heap on the floor banging her head on the corner of the table. Blood flowed from the wound on the side of her head, Bobo stepped around the furniture, instinctively grabbing her arm and with little effort, pulled her over his shoulder. Teedol, closest to the apparition, was momentarily frozen to the spot. Bobo shouted.

" TEEDOL ! Don't just stand there. MOVE ! " Within seconds Teedol had regained his senses, backing towards Bobo who was still carrying Pippa. The air was now filled with the foul smell of the beast and the aroma of paraffin. Slowly the manifestation moved forward with heavy thuds as each huge foot met the floor. As the moments passed, Teedol and Bobo were gripped more and more by fear as the smell of paraffin drifted into their nostrils. Again the beast moved forward until it had almost reached the place where the shattered lamp lay. More by instinct than anything else, Teedol took a match from his pocket and struck it by sliding it down his shorts. With a flick of his wrist the match was sent sailing through the air tumbling and turning. The flame flickered and seemed to go out...

There was a sudden flash as the match landed by the broken lamp. Flames shot up and forward. In the melee which ensued, Teedol grabbed Bobo's arm and led him towards the door.

The heat just seemed to disappear as fresh air hit their faces. Moving away from the now fiercely burning cottage Teedol looked back in horror. The flames leapt through the thatched roof, licked at the sides of the building and spread to the foliage above. Within what seemed like seconds the fire was out of control, spreading towards the other cottages. Bobo lay Pippa down where he thought she would be safe.

" Quick Teedol ! Get help before the flames destroy the whole village. " He shouted. Teedol snapped back out of the shock he was suffering and began to run around the village shouting.

" FIRE ! FIRE ! HELP ! FIRE ! "

Very quickly cotchit's appeared as if from nowhere. Lines were quickly formed as the fire fighting began in earnest. Some cotchit's passed buckets of water, while others threw soil. More cotchit's used axes to chop back the foliage to act as a fire-break. Bobo's cottage, together with the village hall, Mrs. Prachett's, the Longshore's and one of the village elder's homes were either partially or completely destroyed before the fire was brought under control. All that remained of Teedol's home was a pile of smouldering embers. None of the remains were recognisable.

Teedol was certainly not the most popular cotchit at this moment in time. Those who had lost their homes in the wake of the fire were soon offered temporary accommodation by friends and relatives.

All, that is, with the exception of Teedol, Bobo and Pippa.

" Well what do we do now ? " Asked Teedol.

" I didn't see Spud during the fire, we could ask him to shelter us until morning, then perhaps we could sort something else out. " Replied Bobo.

By now Pippa was stirring. Fortunately a healer had been found and was tending to her. Several minutes after Pippa had come to, the healer declared that she would be well and left her with her cousin and friend. The two friends returned to their original conversation.

" We should see if we can find Spud. He was probably out in the woods, but I would have thought the fire would have brought him back. " Said Bobo placing his arm around Pippa. " I agree, we must go to his cottage and see if he's in. " Replied a dejected Teedol. Pippa, now walking between the two friends, felt much better though her head was sore. Bobo's arm still around her helped a great deal, in mind if not in body.

No light could be seen shining through any of Spud's windows though many cotchit's were still walking about. This was very unusual, as by this late hour, many, if not all, would have retired for the night. Of course this was the direct effect of the fire. The trio entered Spud's garden gate and walked upto his door. As they did so, a voice from behind said.

" HI ! Nice to see you, though I must confess to being surprised. It seems I have missed some action, someone can't be very popular right now. I wonder who it is ? " Asked Spud excitedly.
Teedol's head bent towards the ground as he filled with shame and despondency. Bobo tried to change the subject, feeling his friend's sombre mood.

" Can we go in ? We need shelter, not to mention having something more exciting to tell. " Said Bobo.

" Yeah ! Come on, let me open the door. " Replied Spud. As he passed the trio of friends, they followed through the door and into the cottage.

Many considered Spud to be insensitive and big headed. This was not true. He sensed immediately something was wrong with Teedol. The door creaked as it closed.

" Please find a seat, I will get us a drink or something. " Said Spud as he disappeared through another open door.

Pippa was still being held by Bobo. The two of them sat on the couch beside each other. Teedol sat with an unresponsive face in an armchair. Bobo knew that he must do something, and soon. His friend seemed to be regressing into himself more with each passing moment. Bobo checked Pippa was alright , then he got up from his seat and moved over to the side of Teedol. " Hey ! Are you O.K. ? You don't look like your usual self. " Asked Bobo. Teedol's expression did not change, nor did he utter a sound. Bobo placed his hand upon Teedol's shoulder and shook it gently. " Hey come on, it's not that bad. At least no-one was hurt and that's the main thing. " Suggested Bobo.
Still no response, at least none that could be seen. Fortunately Bobo was looking into Teedol's eyes, where he saw a faint glimmer of hope.

" Come on Tee', none of the damage can't be mended. Apart from that, if I understood what you were saying before, it's up to you to save all of Earth from death and destruction. " Bobo spurred on.
Teedol's eyes moved, not distinctly at first but perceptibly. Bobo watched , saying nothing. Again Teedol's eyes moved, this time more clearly. Pippa suddenly fell forward off the couch and onto the floor. She was lucky in the sense that she did not bang her head a second time. Bobo was momentarily in a dilemma. Who should he see too first ?

Love being the stronger motivation, along with the fact he had a response from Teedol, Bobo now moved towards Pippa. He turned her onto her side, drew up the left leg so that it was bent at the knee. Her left arm was placed in a similar fashion with her hand almost level with her face . The right leg and arm were straight down. He turned her head to one side and was just about to check that her airway was clear, when she vomited all over his hand !

At that moment Spud re-entered the room. It was all too plain to see that things were not right. He quickly checked Teedol, obviously, he was in shock but at least he showed signs of recovery. Next he went to Pippa. He quickly checked her over, noticing the wound to her head as he did so.

" How long ago did she bang her head ? " He asked.

" About an hour ago. " Replied Bobo.

" I think she has concussion. We will have to keep an eye on her for a while. What happened to Teedol ? " Asked Spud.

" I'm afraid he started the fire, so all the devastation you see outside was down to his actions. " Answered Bobo.

" I understand, he is in shock but he should be alright in a while. Knowing Teedol as I do I'm sure it was not as simple as him setting fire to the village. Never mind that for the minute we can talk about it later. I'll get something to clean up this mess, you stay with both of them and watch over them. " Said Spud as he went into the kitchen. Spud was the nearest thing the village had to a healer and vet, though nobody in Manap kept pets. Cotchit's believed that animals also had the right to live a normal, free life. He was the best tracker in the village. He would go into the forests and woods to find animals which were caught in snares and traps. If they were not injured he would set them free, if they needed attention he would see them well again and then free them.

Spud returned with a bowl of warm water and some cleaning liquid. Teedol was now showing signs of normality, though, as yet, he had not moved. Pippa seemed settled and Spud was sure she was fine.

" Tell me Bobo, what exactly happened ? How did Teedol and Pippa get into this state, and how did the village get burnt ? " Asked Spud.

" For the best part of the answers to those questions you will have to ask Teedol. I admit to being confused by his story, but I'm sure it is to do with the story he has told Pippa and my-self. " Replied Bobo looking down at Pippa.

" Don't worry my friend she will be fine, though we must keep an eye on her . By the looks of Teedol he should be well enough to question very soon. I will begin to talk to him if you would be good enough to make a hot drink. I'll get a cover to put over Pippa as we must keep her warm. " Said Spud.

" Do I make a drink for Pippa ? " Asked Bobo.

" No, not for the moment, but make one for Teedol. I'm sure he could manage one. " Answered Spud. Bobo went off to the kitchen, while Spud went to the bedroom to find a warm blanket. He returned covering up Pippa. He then stooped by the side of Teedol.

" Hey old friend, are you alright ? " Asked Spud placing a hand upon Teedol's shoulder. Teedol turned his head slowly. At first it was as though he did not recognise his friend. Slowly a smile began to form on Teedol's face along with a hint of recognition.

" Hello Spud, w.. whe... where am I ? " He stuttered.

" You are in my place. Don't you remember ? " Inquired Spud. " Remember ? Remember what ? " Asked Teedol with a blank expression. " The fire, or Pippa getting hurt ? " Quizzed Spud. " Fire ? What fire ? " Replied Teedol , feeling more and more puzzled. Just then Bobo entered the room carrying a tray laden with three hot steaming drinks.

" I don't remember anything about a fire. " Replied a still puzzled Teedol .

" Can you remember the wizard in Manap Hill and the stories about the Ancient Lore ? " Interjected Bobo.

" Wizard ? Wiz.. Wiz... Wizard ! " Answered Teedol with a sign of faint recollection. His face changed expression several times as he searched through his memory. The faces he pulled were quite comical. If it were not so serious a matter, the others would have laughed.

" AH, the wizard ! Yes, I remember. The walls started to fall in, he pushed me out of a door and I ran.

" Said Teedol as his speech got faster and faster.

" Steady on there friend, you are getting carried away with yourself. We can't keep up with you, you are babbling. " Interrupted Spud.

" Oh ! I'm sorry, it's all coming back to me now. " Replied Teedol with a big grin on his face. Silence fell on the group for a while as Teedol's memory came flooding back. A sudden change in Teedol's expression occurred , changing his grin to a grimace as he recalled the gruesome beast in his cottage and then the fire. His chin dropped as did his head.

" It was not your fault, you had to do something to get us all out of there . I'm sure we would all have died if you hadn't. " Said Bobo as he broke the silence.

" Do you really think so ? " Asked Teedol looking for solace.

" There is no question about it. Think back to the situation, what else could you do ? " Asked Bobo. Teedol thought for a moment before replying.

" Yes ! You are right. What else could I do ? I mean it's not as though I'm a wizard, yet ! " Answered Teedol finally.

" Wait a minute. What do you mean, not a wizard YET ?

" Asked Spud as a puzzled expression came over him.

" OH ! I forgot, you haven't heard the story yet, have you ? " Inquired Teedol. At that moment Pippa began to stir. Bobo was the first to reach her closely followed by Spud. Teedol had not noticed Pippa lying on the floor. Pippa slowly lifted herself up, with the help of both Spud and Bobo . She still seemed a bit dazed, but Spud did one or two simple tests, before declaring. " She will be alright now. Help her into a chair. " Bobo insisted she be helped onto the couch, where he could sit by her side .
Soon after, Teedol found himself telling the story all over again with one slight difference, he left nothing out. By the time he reached the part where the wizard performed the magic tricks the room was filled with Ooooh's and Ahhh's.

Teedol concluded with.

" So I know that I must go to Mount Erun in the Red Mountains. " Said Teedol with a sigh. Spud and Bobo looked at each other, then back at Teedol.

" The Red Mountains. Have you heard the stories about Mount Erun and the Red Mountains ? " They both asked with apprehension in their voices. Teedol was dismayed at the response.

" The reason I told you the story was in the hope that both of you would go with me. After all, the wizard said I should take a friend. I don't think an extra one would hurt. Do you ? " Asked Teedol pausing for a moment. " Well, will you go with me ? " He asked frankly. Without much hesitation Bobo and Spud answered almost simultaneously. " Of course I will. You must forgive me as I misunderstood. I thought that you were to go alone. All we need to know now is, when do we start ? " Asked Spud.

Teedol thought a moment before answering.

" Well I don't know about all of you, but I need some sleep, I'm shattered . I suppose tomorrow at first light will do. " He finally answered. Spud, Bobo and Pippa all agreed. By now Pippa was feeling quite herself again.

" The next question is, where are we all going to sleep ? " Asked Teedol. Now it was Spud's turn to think for a moment.

" Teedol, you can sleep with me, Pippa in the spareroom and Bobo on the couch. If that is alright ? " He finally ventured. Before any-one else could answer Teedol interjected.

" That will be perfect. Now I have the satisfaction to perform a duty and I can't think of better company to do it in. Pippa, Bobo I have great pleasure in introducing you to each other formally, ( a slight cough ) as you have both confided in me your interest for each other. NOW! We! That is Spud and myself will retire giving you both time to get to know each other properly. " Said Teedol with a grin larger than a Cheshire cat.

He nodded to Spud who nodded back in agreement. Teedol turned to the two lovers and bid them good-night, as did Spud.

Bobo and Pippa smiled a sweet innocent smile at each other. It was not the done thing to kiss and cuddle without being properly introduced. Their introduction was less formal than it should have been, but this was due to the present circumstances they found themselves in. It was embarrassing, though ultimately what mattered was the fact that they were finally, and formally, together. This was their first time alone together. Strange as it may seem, now they were alone, neither could think of anything to say. They merely looked deep into each other's eyes, each lost momentarily within the thoughts of the other.

Slowly Bobo's hand, which was down by his side began to move towards Pippa's, which was also down by her side. He so wanted to hold her hand. Still slower his hand moved again, until it reached her soft warm flesh. From shock at reaching her hand so quickly, and the fear of being rebuffed , he withdrew his hand quickly. He smiled at Pippa, who smiled in return. Bobo noticed Pippa had made no comment at his touch. Once again, perhaps a little quicker this time, his hand moved forward again...

" Ah ! " Thought Bobo. " The gentle warmth of soft delicate skin. " This time, however, he did not remove his hand, instead he gently took hold of Pippa's. His heart beginning to race at the touch of Pippa's silky smooth skin.

His touch was like velvet to Pippa as the warmth from each other began to flow. The expectation and desire had also affected Pippa, as her rate of breathing increased. Slowly the two of them turned to face each other as one arm from each of them searched for a shoulder to rest upon.

Again they looked into each other's eyes and were lost in the depths of their desires. Slowly, ever so slowly their lips were being drawn together as if they were magnets. Neither could resist, even if they had wanted to . Pippa became aware of her breasts rising and falling as her breathing deepened more. Lips gently touched with the delicacy of silk. All their hopes and dreams had come true, as their fears drifted away like wisps of cloud blown by silent winds. At last... The first tender kiss as lips were pressed together in a deepening passion. Bobo's breathing now sounded like thunder, but only to him. The wanting, the yearning which grew inside them, as they tried holding their breaths momentarily in an attempt to regain control...

Alas their efforts were in vain, as their passions and desires deepened. They forget, or abandoned their concerns as their minds reeled somewhere between fantasy and ecstasy.

There was a radiance, an energy, which tingled, almost like an electrical charge of minuscule proportions and then. Yes! The flesh, living skin, soft, gentle and warm. So responsive, so alive. Slowly their lips parted , sticking momentarily as if reluctant to separate. Bobo, with more confidence, held her delicate feminine hand in his larger masculine one.

" Bobo, I've loved you for a long time but I thought you didn't like me. " Said Pippa in a soft voice.

" Strange isn't it, it was he same for me. When you came to visit from the Shire I felt so alive and full of life, but when it was time for you to go, I was filled with loneliness, even a sense of emptiness. " Said Bobo in a deep, but quiet husky voice. This instilled a sense of being wanted, needed, and most importantly, of being deeply cared for into Pippa who now turned slightly so she could get closer to Bobo.

Slowly her face drew closer to Bobo's. His senses were alive and tingling. The feelings he was aware of were completely new to him, as it was for Pippa. As these new energies emanated from the two figures, it created a bond which drew the two souls together into a single entity of pure love. Ever nearer drew those soft, tender lips, quivering with excitement and anticipation. Both were trembling in nervous apprehension, longing, waiting, wanting that final moment, when, at last those lips met in the tenderest of kisses which were as delicate as the gossamer wings of love. Bobo's eyes closed slowly as the kiss grew in intensity and passion. For Pippa, as for Bobo, the sweet sensation grew and grew until every corner of their minds were ablaze with the beauty of love...

There was a long silence, as the two lovers moved closer, Bobo putting his arm around Pippa's waist, she in turn putting her arm around his. Her head resting upon his chest. This is how they stayed, as they relaxed and soaked up the warmth of love which filled every corner of the room. In their minds the memory of that first kiss was indelibly burned into their memory, never to be forgotten or lost, but to be savoured for a lifetime to come. Bobo now began to stroke the side of Pippa's face, caressing it lovingly. Its effect was so soothing, Pippa smiled a smile which began at the very centre of her soul, until it broke out onto her face as a gentle, warm knowing smile. She knew she was happy. She knew she had found that once in a lifetime love. It was true, pure and undying.

Each of them knew they had found their soul mate. It was a union of spiritual and physical love untainted by the rigours of a humdrum world, where to succeed meant only material gain. They would live a life filled with love and all that followed would be either gained or lost together.

Link to Chapter Three

© MCMXMI - MMI ••• A Stanley