Walker, Timothy -- The Gathering Part One The Band of Ward (Read in "Fullscreen")

The Gathering

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Also by This Author

The Band of WardThe Gathering

The Balance of Hope *

* forthcoming

The GatheringThe Band of Ward

Book One

Timothy David Walker

RNU Press2009

© 2009 Timothy David Walker

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, me-chanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the written permission of the author.

Book Design & Layout by David Edwards (RNU Press)Cover Art Credit: © Teemu KoskinenInterior Art Credit: © Christine J. Buckley

First published by RNU Press555 Mapleview Drive WestBarrie, ON, L4N 8W2www.rnupress.com

ISBN: 978-0-9812886-2-8

This book is printed on acid-free paper.This book is a work of fiction. Places, events, and situations in this book are purely Fictional, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is coincidental.

For my Mother-in-LawPamela Lees

The driving force behind my madness

Contents

Prologue . . . . . . . . . . . The Taking of Peller . . . . . . . . .The East Pond . . . . . . . . . .Odman’s Hill . . . . . . . . . .King Cuezwatt’s Feast . . . . . . . . .Meetings at The Yard . . . . . . . . .Passing Over The Swift . . . . . . . . .Saving Master Ward . . . . . . . . .A Pig and the Trees . . . . . . . . .Weighing the Solution . . . . . . . .The Gathering Of The Band . . . . . . .The Wise Owl’s Advice . . . . . . . .Tea Before the Break Up . . . . . . . .Rain, Mud and Feathers . . . . . . . .The Wall of Water . . . . . . . . . .Coldmare Bridge . . . . . . . . . .Return to The Yard . . . . . . . . . .The Mushroom’s Edge . . . . . . . . .Convincing the Warthog . . . . . . . .When All Went Dark . . . . . . . . .

1.2.�.4.5.6.7.8.9.

10.11.12.1�.14.15.16.17.18.19.

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Prologue

The Imprisonment of Dark Sky

THUS the Great War ended and The Leadership of the Three cried of victory. And The Golden Fields turned tored, soaked in the blood of birds and beasts. The mother

of the land fled to The Four Hills of light and sat atop the summit listening to the winds of change. And from her place atop the world she saw the minions of Dark Sky flee into the dark realms of the far-east, screaming of death and dismay. Thy mother wept. She wept for the noble and courageous! She wept for the dead and the dying, and she wept for the malice of Dark Sky Storm Wolf.

Not a day had passed after the Great War ended and Dark Sky was already dressed in wooden shackles. His neck was incased in hard splintered oak while his four legs were strung together at the ankles by strong willow limbs. He cursed his bearers as they marched south toward The Four Hills of light. Great and powerful rabbits dressed in embroidered silk cloaks carried the wolf atop their wide shoulders. He cried for water and he cried for mercy! He cried of vengeance and cried of deceit! And he cursed thy mother of all the land . . . . he cursed Mother Nature.

Thus Dark Sky Storm Wolf, the grim and horrid dictator of The Dark Water Realm, was carried into the warmth of The Four Hills. The light came upon his shackles and he screamed at its goodness. He cursed the light. He spat and cackled while heckling his bear-ers. But the great and noble rabbits of Thick Brush did not heed his slander, for they had been victorious in their stand against the peril

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—brought by the east and there was nothing the wolf could say to dull their merriment. And they sang as they marched down into the val-ley of flowers at the heart of The Four Hills. They sang and cheered as the wolf cried and bellowed.

And Mother Nature came gracefully down the slopes of The Four Hills holding out her smooth unfettered hands. The great rab-bits placed Dark Sky atop a bed of roses as the thorns pierced his war weathered skin. The wolf howled in agony and sorrow as blood ran from his wounds. Thus, thy mother came upon him and kneeled down to where he lay. And Dark Sky wept. He could not look upon thy mother’s beauty as it burned his very soul. And the wolf would whisper of his hatred and his vengeance. He would whisper of his madness and his pride . . . . and he would whisper that he held no remorse for the dead; that he would rise once more to finish what he had started!

But Mother Nature would forgive Dark Sky’s malice and spare his life. And the wolf laughed at the judgment which was handed down upon his soul. And within the heart of The Four Hills The Black Stone was born. And two other stones of the same strength and purpose were wheeled in serving as the one true stone. And so, the spirit of Dark Sky Storm Wolf was cast into The Black Stone and there his spirit would stay unless the stone break. Three stones, given to three keepers in three hidden places; and over time the black stone became that of stories and lore until the very knowl-edge of its being faded to myth. And the balance of nature would endure . . . . heal, and hope that the next storm would pass by unnoticed.

The Taking of Peller

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The Taking of Peller

THE yard was waking up as the morning sun gave its warm embrace upon the open fields. The old barn sat insilence emits dust that had been stirred by the morning

breeze. Close by, the large oak stood tall and stout while to the left of the old barn’s front doors, was a small wooden house. At the foot of its little door hung a leather flap; inside was a bed of straw, a steel bowl full of water, a tiny reading book, and a little pig curled up in the corner snoring softly. The snore suddenly turned into a snort and the animal raised its head.

“Good morning large oak my friend,” said Kezwick the yard pig. “I trust that you slept well?”

The large oak moaned and swayed in the breeze in answer to the little pig that it had slept well. Kezwick then walked out from his little house and stretched his little legs. He took a deep breath and walked off for breakfast. The farmer always left the pig food outside the front of the house. When he got there a short moment later, he ate it all up; cabbage, apples, and soggy bread swimming in a pool of fresh milk.

“Did you save me any Kezzy?” asked a small raspy voice.The pig turned his head toward the small doghouse that sat to

the left corner of the farmhouse, and snorted with a smile.“Good morning wee Mischief, and no I did not save but a single

cabbage leaf,” Kezwick answered.“That’s all right lord pig, for I have already enjoyed my break-

fast,” the wee schnauzer answered with a grin.The small dog then rested his head atop his front paws at the

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—entrance of the doghouse. The pig gave a friendly nod to Mischief and then walked back toward the old barn. The sun was now in full view as Kezwick walked along proudly. Other animals were about the yard. Cows wandered the fields, and horses ran freely to the east along the fence next to the raging Coldmare River. The small pig watched with glee well sitting quietly at the foot of the large oak.

The tree swayed and creaked softly; Kezwick looked up at the large oak and chuckled; “Yes my old friend, it would be nice to run as swift as the Horse Lords do, yes indeed,” he replied.

Thus, while Kezwick and the large oak continued to watch, a larger dog wandered up to the pig and sat quite tall beside him. It too looked to the horses running with haste. The dog then looked down at Kezwick who sat still without a word. It was Ward the golden lab, and a very close friend to the pig. The grand dog cleared his throat and gave Kezwick a tiny nudge, the pig simply snorted in response.

“Good morning Master Kezwick,” greeted Ward with a grin.“Good morning indeed, but if it is a question you are asking then

yes, it is a good morning,” said the pig.Ward gave the pig a sideway glance.“Have you seen Peller at all this morning?” he inquired suddenly.“I was up and about just before you and I have not seen him nor

have I heard anything,” Kezwick replied with a glint of concern.Ward looked down at Kezwick for a moment and then looked

back to the fields.“It’s not like Peller to be out of the old barn this early in the

morning. Something seems very strange, I could smell it in the air when I rose,” Ward said with worrisome eyes.

Kezwick laughed solemnly and looked to Ward; “Peller more often then not is the last one up; many times I have seen midday before seeing him!”

“I wonder if any of the yardlings have seen him.”

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Kezwick closed his eyes and spoke with the large oak. The great tree creaked and groaned. The leaves rustled upon the long limbs while the ground become warm all around them. Then the tree grew still and the pig opened his eyes.

“The oak saw some dark shadows sliding about the yard through the night. The oak says it may have been the cats,” said Kezwick.

Ward and the pig both shivered at the very thought of the cats. The mother cat Getty had died a few mouths ago and the cats were more miserable then they had been when she was alive. The father cat was Geez the old, and his two sons were Geez Gap and Geez Jr. they lived in and owned the loft of the old barn. The loft was off limits to any other yardling, and the oldest son, Geez Gap, enforced this rule with fierce aggression.

“The cats eh, maybe I will pay them a visit,” said Ward bravely.“You are braver then I Master Ward,” replied the pig as Ward

began to walk toward the door to the old barn, “and you will not go alone,” he added as he got up on all fours and followed the great lab.

The inside of the old barn was home to many of the yard. Ward was one, along with his true love Bernice, and of course, his son Peller. The morning sun shone through the windows and cracks, causing the dust to glitter like small diamonds. The two continued deep into the barn until they came to an old wooden staircase. They stopped and looked up into the darkness of the loft.

“You do not need to come up if you wish not to Kezwick.” Ward said, looking down at his friend. The pig smiled at the mighty dog and started up the stairs ahead of him. Ward followed in surprise.

The air was dry and stuffy. There was a dim light far off to the back wall of the loft and a pair of bright sharp eyes looking their way. Kezwick backed behind Ward.

“How dare you enter the loft so freely?” a voice hissed in the darkness off to their left.

The Taking of Peller—

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—“Yes, how dare you!” another voice hissed from their right.Ward stood firm, “I wish to speak with the old cat,” demanded

the golden lab. There was silence for a moment and then the voice to their right

replied; “Who would have the nerve to bother Geez the old with rubbish?”

“Ward the golden lab and Master Kezwick,” the dog bellowed with honour.

There was a small snicker from both sides and then the voice to their left announced;

“Pig and dog, leave now while you still have the legs to carry you,” and into the dull light came a large gray cat. Its tail swished side to side. It gazed upon them with an evil shadowed grimace while the eerie light gave a glimpse of the cat’s sharp teeth. Then the cat on the right came into the light also grinning and his tail swayed side to side softly. To the left was the largest and oldest son, Geez Gap and to the right was the smaller and youngest, Geez Jr.

“It’s time for you to leave pig and dog,” Geez Gap hissed softly.“Yes,” repeated Geez Jr., “time to leave.”Ward felt a sudden fear growing within but did not show it upon

his face, the cats crisscrossed as they approached, purring and whis-pering.

“Not until I speak with the old cat,” Ward answered.“You are a stubborn mutt, aren’t you?” Gap scowled. “Leave now and you may leave unharmed.” Ward prepared himself while baring his teeth. Kezwick re-

mained behind the lab terrified. Ward growled at the pacing cats that looked ready to pounce, Kezwick closed his eyes.

“Enough!” called a voice from the back of the loft followed by ahacking cough.

Kezwick opened his eyes to see the two cats were gone while Ward still stood valiantly.

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“Please, come a little closer master lab,” the voice beckoned. “Come into the fading light.”

As Ward and the pig moved slowly toward the back of the loft, evil hisses come from their left and right, the two gray cats leaped high overhead upon wooden cross beams, following Ward and Kez-wick. The dull light soon became brilliant as sunlight broke through a larger crack in the rooftop. And in the light they could see an overweight cat with thickly matted gray hair. The old cat looked up at them both with clouded eyes and a toothless smile .

“It has been awhile Ward. I have not seen you since you were a puppy, you look like you’re father. And you have brought along a young pig I see,” the old cat mumbled.

“Don’t talk to them with such respect father, they’re trouble,” called Gap from high above.

“Yes father, trouble,” repeated Jr.“I do not fear trouble. I am too old and wise to fear trouble,”

hollered the old cat followed by a hacking cough, he looked back at the lab, “I hope you don’t bring trouble Ward. It would not be welcome here.”

“I bring no such thing. I only come with a question to ask,” Ward responded.

“I tire already master lab, so ask with haste and I will answer the best I can,” answered Geez the old.

“Did you or your sons see anything wandering the yard last night?” The old cat lies still a moment and then utters;

“I slept most the night and my eyes aren’t what they use to be, did you boys see anything through the night?”

“Shadows, silent shadows,” the sons of Geez answered.“Was that all? My son has gone missing it seems. And I wonder

if anything strange was seen,” Ward countered, still looking for that logical answer.

“Well!” Geez the old bellowed, he chocked and spat loudly. Then,

The Taking of Peller—

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—with a sideways glance, Geez Jr. answered being careful not to upset his older brother.

“Odman, I saw Odman.”“Your answers lie beyond the eastern fields, but be wary . . . .

searching for Odman the skunk can prove quite wasteful. Far be-yond the great fence are The East Pond and The Coldmare River. Odman’s Hill is there, but I must warn you to be very careful and save your energy for the journey spans for many miles in a world much more dangerous then the one within the walls of The Yard,” concluded the old cat.

Ward nodded and turned to leave. Kezwick looked into the eyes of the yards’ oldest animal and cleared his throat;

“So sorry to carry on oh great cat . . . . but, do you remember my father also?”

The old cat only nodded at Kezwick and then laid its head down falling into dream. Kezwick sighed and turned to follow Ward, the sons of Geez stood on either side of the staircase staring at the dog and pig as they left, but no harsh words were uttered. The two of them had made it out of the loft unharmed. Kezwick pondered a moment looking up into the loft and continued. They wandered together out of the old barn and back into the sunlight when Ward looked to the pig; “I think I should take leave to Odman’s Hill alone,” he said.

“I haven’t been in the loft before, and I don’t think this little walk will be near as scary,” the pig answered with a smile.

The two then without rest, set out toward the fields in the east. That would lead to the East Pond, and the hill where the skunk lived.

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The East Pond

WHEN Ward and the pig were preparing to leave, noneof the other yard animals seemed to notice. Theymade their way east of the old barn and started into

the wide and hilly fields that surrounded the yard. The grass was coloured in patches of green and brown and some spots grew taller than others. Ward explained to the pig that the Horse Lords were picky about what grass they ate.

“How far is the East Pond?” Kezwick inquired while only a few paces into the fields.

“About one mile from the fence I suppose,” Ward answered with a grin, but truthfully he was quite unaware.

Over the hills of the fields they wandered, up and down through thick grass and bare soil. Not a single horse did they see for miles and the day wore on slowly. The pig breathed heavy and dragged his hooves as they climbed up another hill, Ward glanced back still full of energy.

“Come along then master pig, only a few miles to go,” Ward called with a chuckle.

“I have never wandered this far from the yard. Little Mischief would be so jealous of it,” the pig retorted while gasping for air.

A thunderous thumping shook the fields when a towering Horse Lord galloped passed, its hooves pounded on the ground. Kezwick awed at the sight of the grand creature. The large master mane turned and slowed to a trot. Thus it walked proudly over to the smaller animals.

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—“You venture far from home small ones,” the stunning animal

announced as his mane wavered in the breeze, “what brings you to travel such a distance?”

“Are travels will take us beyond the fence in the east, we are in search of The Hill,” Ward answered standing proudly next to the horse.

“Your company looks tired due to our rolling hills,” the horse said with a hearty laugh.

“Yes, this is Master Kezwick and I am lord lab Ward. We havewalked many miles already and the pig tires,” the lab replied.

The horse looked to the far-east and dug his smooth unfettered hooves into the soft earth. Then back to the pig and dog he gazed.

“Hop on and I will take you to the east fence. It will be much faster that way,” the Horse Lord said with a smile, “But please do not tell any of this . . . . Master Mane David would look on it quite poorly!”

The pig and lab did not question the offer of the large horse. Ward boosted Kezwick onto the back of the great beast and then with a mighty leap the golden lab settled beside the pig. The Horse lord took off with a sudden burst almost sending Kezwick tumbling backward, but Ward held him tight.

“Hold on!” the horse called as he raced over hills and down through small gullies. The air was swift and took the pigs breath away. Ward gasped with excitement as they flew across the low grass that covered most of the landscape. The pace suddenly quickened causing Kezwick to yelp as he latched onto the horse as best he could. Ward stretched out his head into the wind that tunneled above and took a deep breath.

“Behold, the east fence of the fields,” the Horse Lord hollered as he slowed.

He came to a trot and then to a walk as the fence sat only a few paces ahead. Ward laughed releasing his excitement while Kezwick

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released the grip he had on the great beast. First the lab jumped off and then he helped the pig down as he wobbled about trying to find his balance.

“That was a breathtaking ride great Horse Lord,” the pig said as he exhaled. Ward laughed, followed by more laughter from the horse.

“Here we are master pig, we cross this fence to make our way to East Pond and the home of the skunk Odman,” Ward concluded while unsure of what might wander the other side.

The fence stretched out of sight in both directions. It was made of thick birch wood that was aged by the punishment of time. It stood tall, towering above any of the small animals that lived in the yard, and to Kezwick’s amazement it stood as tall as the Horse Lord’s neck. He had come to the conclusion that neither him nor Ward would be able to go any further.

“I must leave now with haste small ones. The Master Manes will be looking for me,” said the horse as he turned to leave.

“Thank you great Horse Lord,” Ward said as he bowed his head. Kezwick saw this and also bowed.

“Think nothing of it, just keep in mind that it is now passed noon and you may have to search for shelter for the evening,” and the stunning beast was gone.

“What do we do now Master Ward?” the pig inquired with a look of distress.

“Somewhere along the fence is Odman’s fence hole, most yard-lings are aware of this fact while others think it a myth, he uses it to get in and out of the fields. We must find it and hope that we fit,” Ward explained, “come along Kezwick, we will try north,” the lab concluded as he started north along the fence.

Kezwick felt like lying down and taking a long nap at this point. Time passed quickly and the sun began dropping behind the trees of Dark Bush to the north. Dark Bush was quite a distance and sat

The East Pond—

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—dormant creating a black skyline. A brisk wind began to pick up and the pig caught a chill.

“Look,” said Ward with a sudden yelp.Kezwick brought up his hanging, tired head and saw a small

hole in the large fence. Some of the dirt was also dug up around it. Bite marks around the arch of the hole showed just how hard it must have been for Odman to make it. The dirt around the base of the hole was grey and dry meaning that the skunk had not been by in some time.

“It’s getting dark Ward, maybe we should go back,” the pig said with worry while eyeing the gaunt sky overhead, grey wisps of cloud moved steadfast at the drive of the growing wind.

“Go back? We would be lost in the fields for certain, they are pitch black at night. Who knows where we would end up,” explained the lab. “We stay along the fence and rest only for awhile and then we continue toward East Pond.”

“In the dark?” bellowed Kezwick.“You must get some rest master pig and I will keep watch,” coun-

tered Ward as he sat down.Kezwick lay up against the fence and managed a little shelter

from the wind; he shivered at its cold touch.“Will you not need to get some sleep also?” Kezwick asked as his

eyes became heavy. Ward looked down at the pig and then back out to the fields which grew dark.

“I refuse to sleep until I know where my son is.”Kezwick then began to drift off. The wind whistled through the

small gaps in the fence singing an eerie song of slumber.

* * * * *

The pig suddenly awoke to the dark. He could feel the cold wood fence against his back. The night was still covering the fields

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and the breeze was now swifter and colder. He brought up his head and looked about seeing nothing but the black of night he then real-ized that Ward was not sitting by him and became scared.

“Ward?” The pig whispered into the night air. The wind was the only answer he received, cold and bitter. “Master Ward, are you there some where in the dark?”Then without warning, Ward came into sight and slowly made

his way over to Kezwick. He had brought something with him and dropped it to the ground in a small pile. Right away the pig recog-nized the smell. It was plump juicy strawberries. Kezwick rose from his place against the fence and walked over to the pile.

“Where did you find such plump strawberries, Master Ward?” the pig asked as he stuck his nose into the pile.

“The edge of Dark Bush, they grow all along the foot of the trees,” Ward answered, looking around at the darkness and sniffing the air, “Eat up, lord pig. It will give you back your strength, you will need it.”

Kezwick began to eat up the berries with big mouthfuls, while Ward kept watch. The lab had already eaten enough of them. After a short while Kezwick let out a long sigh and the two of them were on their way. Under the fence hole they went. Ward barely made it through while the pig passed through without burden. Off in the night crickets rubbed there legs together making a sweet sound of music.

“The other side of the fence doesn’t seem so bad,” the pig said.“Not at the moment,” Ward answered, “Look there,” he added

pointing to the south.Kezwick saw that the sun was peeking over the horizon in the

far south, many miles away.“A new day dawns, master lab.” Kezwick whispers as he looked

on in awe.“Indeed and now we must move with haste Kezwick. The East

The East Pond—

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—Pond should be close and that is where we will find the skunk.” Ward concluded as he began to walk through the longer grass. The pig followed close.

The grasses on the way to East Pond seemed longer by the step. Kezwick stumbled about trying to keep up with Ward. After a long struggle, the grass became shorter and Kezwick noticed that the sun was now high giving its soothing warmth. Ward came to a sudden stop, he stepped into an opening of short wet grass, and the pig fol-lowed. The grass gushed under his paws.

“The East Pond lord Kezwick.”A large body of water sat before them seeming to stretch out

endlessly in all directions, along the edges stood towering cattails, some were splitting open releasing their seeds to travel upon the breeze. The surface of the great pond moved softly presenting a wavering light within it. The sun gave the welcoming glow and high overhead flew the mighty ducks that inhabited the East Pond. The two of them looked in wonder and laughed as the ducks swooped down into the water and others ran along the waters’ surface like magic. Kezwick watched not believing his eyes.

“I wonder if anyone here may be able to direct us to The Hill,” mumbled Ward glancing down at the pig, “Come along Kezwick.”

As they made their way around the pond, the pig continued to watch the ducks fly freely through the sky. The sun was bright and it almost looked as though the ducks were flying around it. Then out of nowhere a large duck with soft bright white feathers landed a few paces ahead of them.

“Who goes there? These are heavily guarded waters,” the large duck announced proudly.

“We are animals of the yard and we seek direction,” Ward an-swered bravely.

Then two more ducks slightly smaller landed on either side of the big one.

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“Ward, is that you?” one of the ducks asked with a little smile. “Yes it is me, do I know you?”

The duck took a few steps forward ahead of the others. The larger duck looked on with anger.

“It’s me, Donetrun,” the duck answered. Ward suddenly smiled, realizing that it was his old friend Donetrun.

When they were pup and duckling, Ward had saved Donetrun from the foxes of Dark Bush. Donetrun had broken his wing when the wind had caused him to fly into a high tree. Luckily it was near the north fence of the fields and Ward was wandering about them that day. Sly the fox was young then and was leading a pack of trou-bled foxes through Dark Bush causing heartache for all others that dwelt there. When they came across a duckling on the ground they decided that it would be lunch that day. Ward saw this happening at the edge of the bush and with a mighty running leap he jumped the large fence to his own amazement.

Ward was a strong and fast pup but the foxes displayed no fear, after all, he was a yardling. So, after bravely jumping the fence, Ward fought off two foxes at a time until most of them were laying about the grass. The only one left standing was Sly the Slick, and he ran off into Dark Bush with his bushy tail between his legs. Thus the foxes of Dark Bush shunned Sly and sent him away but still to this day he wanders Dark Bush looking for scraps.

Ward took Donetrun to the yard and nursed him back to health over a few days. After much healing the lab took the duck to the east fence where they parted and Donetrun flew back to the East Pond. They promised to keep in touch but they never really did. The ducks order did not like the younger ducks befriending other animals, but now on this sun filled morning old friends meet again.

“Donetrun my old friend,” Ward answered with excitement.“What brings you to East Pond?” Donetrun asked.“Somewhere along the edges of your water is the home of some-

The East Pond—

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—one we wish to speak with; a skunk by the name of Odman,” Ward explained.

The larger duck opened his mouth to speak and was cut off quickly by Donetrun.

“Odman lives in a hill where East Pond splits off of the Cold-mare River, it’s in a small corner.” Donetrun paused for a moment and then continued, “The head of the order does not allow us to converse with the skunk or the raccoons that he has been friends with for many years.”

The larger duck stepped in front of Donetrun and cleared his throat.

“You have received enough information from us. So now you both must be on your way,” he said loudly.

Donetrun stepped up and was face to face with the larger duck. He then turned toward the lab and pig that remained still.

“This is the head of the guards. His name is Willie. He is go-ing to inform the head of the order that I helped out an old friend,” Donetrun explained. He then turned his stare back to Willie, “I’m going to take them around to the other side of East Pond. I owe this lab my life.”

“The king will not be happy with this Donetrun, but I will in-form him,” Willie countered as he turned sternly giving his wings a flutter. He then flew off over the waters of East Pond while the other less talkative guard followed.

Donetrun turned to the lab and pig. He smiled softly. “Who’s your companion?”

“This is Master Kezwick the pig. He came along to keep me company in my travels,” Ward replied looking down at the pig. Kez-wick bowed his head to the duck and the duck bowed back with a warm respect.

“Any friend of Ward is a friend of mine,” Donetrun said. He then looked off to the far-east toward the Coldmare River, “You seek

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Odman. Then our travels will take us in that direction.”“Then it will be in that direction we will go.” Ward concluded as

he began to walk along the edge of East Pond.The sun was past noon as the breeze continued to blow from the

north, the pond water danced beautifully. Donetrun waddled along following close behind Kezwick, as the pig was only a few paces be-hind Ward. The three were on their way.

“Ward leaves with such haste master pig,” Donetrun says qui-etly.

Kezwick looked back at Donetrun with a smile. “If only we could fly like you it would make matters much simpler.”

The East Pond—

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Odman’s Hill

THE wet grasses along the ponds’ edge were becoming thickand sticking to the sides of Kezwick’s belly. He scratchedat them but to no use he shook his head in frustration at

the feel of it. Time to time Donetrun would take off into the air when the grass was too thick. Ward showed no sign of bother even though his hair was soaked and matted. Kezwick thought for sure that the wet grasses of East Pond were going to consume him whole. Then, when things could not possibly get worse, a swarm of black flies came from above.

“Ward, do you see?” Kezwick hollered from further back.“Yes, master pig. I heard them coming a moment ago,” answered

Ward eyeing the wisp of black.They were surrounded by black flies not soon after, and every

third one took a bite at the pig and then at the lab. They staggered about trying to escape the swarm but it was no use. Kezwick yelped and cursed at the flies as Ward swung his head about wildly while still pushing forward. Then, out of nowhere came a large shadow. It was the wide wingspan of Donetrun. He was a large strong duck and that was why he was one of East Pond’s top guards. He swooped down letting out a loud bellow startling Ward and the pig. There was a sudden strong gust of wind sending the black flies into a scat-tered mess. Kezwick looked up to see that Donetrun was just above themflapping his wings with all his might and soon enough all the flies had vanished.

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—Donetrun landed and breathed heavily trying to catch his breath.

Ward ran over as the wet grass gushed under his paws. Kezwick sat for a moment looking about the sky for anymore flies and seeing there was none he also rushed over to Donetrun aid.

“Are you well?” Ward asked.“Yes, I’m fine. Are you both alright?”“We are now,” replied Kezwick. “I’ve never been bit by a black

fly before and it’s quite painful I must say.”“Very painful, that swarm especially. They’re the most dangerous

in the north. They once brought down a wolf I heard. But they are no match for the ducks of East Pond,” explained Donetrun finally catching his breath.

Donetrun ruffled his feathers and gave his head a shake. He then glanced around and listened quietly. Ward and the pig said nothing but watched the duck waiting for him to speak.

“Do you hear that?” he whispered. “You must not breathe a sin-gle breath and you can hear it. Close your eyes.”

The three of them had their eyes shut and listened intently. There was a sound of running water in the far distance.

“The Coldmare,” whispered Ward with his eyes still shut tight.They opened their eyes and Kezwick grinned. “I would not mind much at all if I was to see the mighty Cold-

mare River,” the pig said. “And soon you will, master pig. Odman’s hill is not far off

now,”Donetrun mumbled as he continued ahead. Ward followed the duck and Kezwick stumbled along also, he glanced back hoping that the flies were positively gone. The rest of the way was all the same, walk-ing around the East Pond with gushing wet grasses that caused the pig to feel much disgust, oh how he wished for dry land or that he was safe inside his house reading his little reading book. But soon enough the pig’s wishes for dry land would be answered. They had

- 19 -

come to a clearing. The three of them stopped side by side by side with the pig shortest in the middle. Donetrun lifted a wing and pointed to a small hill off in the distance and beyond that there was a faint glimmer and a more clear sound of a strong current.

“Odman’s hill is there, and the glimmering light you see beyond the hill is The Coldmare River,” explained the duck, seeming wise in the knowledge of the land surrounding them. “You seek Odman, and I believe the pig wishes to see the river?”

Kezwick looked up at Ward and then back to the glimmer in the distance.

“I must speak with the skunk, Kezwick. You can wander over to The Coldmare in the safe keeping of Donetrun,” muttered Ward looking to the hill.

At that, Kezwick and the duck walked off toward the river and Ward headed in a straight line toward Odman’s hill. A few paces later the lab was standing before it. The hill was large and hugged the corner of The Coldmare and East Pond. It was covered in a thick green grass that swayed gently in the late day breeze while small pink flowers dotted the top. Ward looked more carefully and then noticed at the base of the hill there was a small smooth wooden door that bore a small weathered knob made of brass. Without further delay Ward knocked three times. Silence loomed for a few moments and then a small answer from somewhere inside came; “Go away!”

Ward knocked again but this time much harder.“Unless you are looking to smell for the next few years of your

feeble life, I suggest you GO AWAY!” the voice said with anger. Ward stood for a moment in silence and then knocked again

with all his might. The door swung open suddenly and the backside of Odman the skunk, appeared spraying a terrible smelling mist all about the front of his doorstep. Then, with his nose in the air, he turned to look at his victim and to his surprise there was not a soul

Odman’s Hill—

The Gathering

- 20 -

—outside his little wooden door.

“Stand still where you are skunk or feel the might of the yard,” said a voice that Odman did not recognizes. Ward had hid off to the side of the hill after his third knock.

Odman looked all about and thought that the foolish prankster had ran off out of terrible fear, the skunk chuckled, but Ward stood a few feet away from Odman with no fear. He stared for a moment at the skunk without a word, Odman sniffed the air and spoke; “Ward of the yard, you venture far from home mighty lab . . . . but I must admit, I’m not surprised,” he said. Odman sat solemnly and looked off toward the East Pond.

Ward sat also and looked off in the same direction. “I come forinformation, Odman.”

“Why do you come to see me? The yard animals have always treated me badly and what makes you think I would even like to speak with you about any matters?” Odman bellowed still sticking his nose in the air. “The day grows late Ward, and now I am tired.”

“I know of your friendship with my son. You both thought I was unaware, quite foolish . . . . ” Ward explained in a serene mood. “Bernice knew before I did . . . . she can read animals like a book, but it was only a matter of time until I would find out.”

Odman remained quiet as Ward turned and glared down upon the skunk. He could feel Ward’s eyes on him, burning with worry.

“Peller and I had a partnership. He brought me yard food and I told him stories of the outside world.” Odman retorted finally with meek voice.

“Told him lies you mean? Made him want to leave the yard!” yelped Ward with anger.

Odman looked up at Ward’s angry face, “I told him of other lands away from the confinement of the yard.”

Odman got up on all fours and wandered a few paces ahead of Ward. He knew something was wrong. Ward would never come

- 21 -

this far just to see him about something as simple as yard food and tall tales. The skunk hung his head low and shook it slowly. Od-man did know something and he had tried to stop it before it had happened.

“He’s gone, isn’t he? Peller’s gone,” Odman muttered closing hiseyes.

* * * * *

Donetrun was a few paces ahead of the pig as the sound of the river was almost deafening. Kezwick was getting hungry and the sun was now half covered by the lands to the north. Evening was approaching night. The duck suddenly stopped by some large plants and turned toward Kezwick waving for him to hurry along. When he reached Donetrun a moment later, the duck already had a mouth full of greenery.

“What is this you are feasting on, Donetrun?” Kezwick asked with a grumbling stomach. At this point he would eat anything.

“Greenery,” the duck answered with a mouth full. “It doesn’t taste great but it will fill your belly for a long while.”

Kezwick bent down to smell the plants and it reminded him of the weeds that grow in the fields near the yard. They had a look similar to wild grass but a brighter and more luscious green. Again, his stomach moaned, so without another thought the pig chomped off a big mouth full and chewed it quickly trying to avoid tasting it. But the overpowering flavour consumed his taste buds, after a few chews he swallowed hard and his tongue hung out of his mouth painted as green as the plant.

“Is one mouth full enough, master duck?” he asked.“At least two more, young pig and then we will visit the banks

of the Coldmare,” replied Donetrun as he finished. The duck pulled out some of the greenery and stuck it under his left wing, for Ward to

Odman’s Hill—

The Gathering

- 22 -

—eat, “It’s not that bad, hurry along Kezwick, the night falls swiftly.”

The pig just barely swallowed down two more large mouth-fuls and Donetrun guided Kezwick to the river. The current of The Coldmare was running wild. It splashed over large rocks while large rock bass would leap into the air catching a glimpse of the late day sun. The river was strong enough to carry away the biggest wild dog while the rough waters were deep enough to drown a Horse Lord.

“Beautiful,” whispered the pig.“Beautiful yes, but very dangerous Master Kezwick,” Donet-

run answered swiftly. He had wondered if Kezwick had even heard him.

The night arrived in full and Donetrun looked up at the full moon, it was bright and gave a dull glow to their surroundings.

“What news is it that Ward seeks?” The duck asked breaking the silence.

Kezwick was still for another moment and then he turned and made eye contact with Donetrun;

“His son Peller is missing. The cats saw shadows and my friend the large oak did also.” Kezwick took a deep breath and then contin-ued. “Ward fears for his son and the cats saw Odman that night.”

“Odman . . . . well I am quite sure nothing ill has come to pass. It is possible that the lab’s son just ran away. But still . . . . ”

“What is it, master duck?” Kezwick inquired.“Ducks listen to the wind young pig, it is an element we call our

own. We understand the wisdom of the wind and trust its judg-

ment . . . . but of late it has oddly whispered of dark days ahead.” Donetrun answered looking to the night sky.

* * * * *

- 2� -

The skunk was growing impatient at the silence Ward displayed. The golden lab was terrified but did his best to hide it. So, Ward growled to try and instill fear upon the skunk.

“Where is my son, Odman?” he asked.Odman smiled as best he could. But it was hard to be civil about

the truth and the skunk did not want to upset Ward, considering that the dog disliked him so, “The shadows took him away.”

“Why were you there, and who are the shadows?”“I was trying to warn him! But when I saw the terrible eyes of

the shadows coming I got scared and ran back to the fields. They would have killed me if they knew why I was there,” the skunk ex-plained in a fearful voice.

“Who are the shadows? And what were you warning Peller about?” countered Ward, looking for straight answers.

“I heard the shadows were coming for him. I was going to warnPeller that they were coming to take him away, but I wasn’t fast enough, they came so quickly” cried Odman hanging his head in shame.Ward became frustrated and angry. His voice became loud causing the skunk to cringe, “Who are the SHADOWS?”

“The Weasels of the Black Dens, they sent out Mermon, Blum, and Blomm,” whispered Odman as he looked about fearfully, “the three shadow weasels.”

“How do you know all of this Odman? Were you behind it in some way?” Ward responded as his upper lip curled revealing his sharp ivory white teeth.

Odman the skunk shook his head. He knew why, where, and when, but he was not to blame. A few days before the taking of Peller, Ward and his only son had got into a fight over his need to venture the outside world. And Peller had run far across the fields, all the way to the east fence. He was in such a fury that he was

Odman’s Hill—

The Gathering

- 24 -

—

mumbling to himself out loud, about his anger toward his father, and that the stone had poisoned his father, making him into a monster that wished power over all yardlings. And thus, with a little bit of dumb luck, Odman the skunk and Basil the raccoon of the Golden Field were on the opposite side of the fence planning to sneak in and steal some yard food. They overheard Peller’s ranting and rav-ing . . . . and discovered an awful truth.

“I tried to convince Basil not to say anything Ward, but he thought that the weasels would reward him. I haven’t heard from Basil since,” the skunk mumbled as Ward sat in shock.

Odman looked up at Ward with a face smeared in guilt, “They know you have the black stone and as for Peller . . . . I fear none of us may see him ever again!” he finished.

Ward looked into the night sky as a wisp of grey cloud dressed the moon. He closed his eyes. Odman became upset with the lab, waiting for an answer, waiting to be forgiven! But for quite awhile Ward did not speak. Finally the dog’s eyes opened and the skunk looked into the darkest part of them, and knew.

“You spoke with her, didn’t you?” the skunk cried.“I must get the others. We must get back to the yard right away,”

Ward answered with a straight face.

- 25 -

King Cuezwatt’s Feast

KEZWICK suddenly became quite concerned, Donetrun could tell by the look of worry that the moons lightshowed in his eyes. The Coldmare was becoming louder

and the pig seemed to shiver and gave a slight moan.“Are you cold master pig, the night does have a chill and you bare

not much hair,” said Donetrun looking still in the pigs eyes.“Something is wrong, I must get back to the hill and see if Mas-

ter Ward is unharmed,” Kezwick answered turning away from the river.

“Of course Kezwick and then we will go back to the East Pond and deal with what matters are to come.”

Kezwick took one last glance at the river as he began to walk away it was now in full motion and seemed to have the look of being even more dangerous then before.

“Somehow I get the feeling that I will see the river again,” he said turning his view back toward the west.

“That is possible master pig anything can happen beyond what you know and the world around us is changing,” said Donetrun picking up the pace, “I am quite sure that the river will be there the next time you meet with it.”

The two now new friends were at a fast pace and within a shortdistance from the skunk’s hill. It was well into the night and it was hard to see, Kezwick was becoming confused and frightened. He stuck close behind Donetrun who lead the way. The duck of the East Pond walked weaving about without missing a step and did not

The Gathering

- 26 -

—stumble but once.

“The hill is near,” the duck whispered.“How do you see in this blasted darkness?” Kezwick asked with

frustration.“I listen to the wind, it gusts very low tonight,” said Donetrun

still leading the way, “it knows the way, always.”The ground was cold under the footsteps of them both and the

air was chilly and damp. A noise caught the attention of Donetrun and then Kezwick. Something large was moving toward them and at a fast pace. The duck stopped and looked back at Kezwick he could see just a part of his face under the moonlight.

“Something is coming toward us Kezwick, stand behind me and get out of sight,” Donetrun demanded.

The pig snuggled up to the back of Donetrun and the duck then stood towering and spread out his wings as wide as they could spread. Kezwick looked at the span of the duck’s wings in amaze-ment as the feathers glimmered in the moons glow. Then in a low grumbling voice the duck spoke toward the oncoming steps; “Come with ill intentions and you will feel our wrath!”

* * * * *

The skunk took his gaze off of the gleam in Ward’s eyes and stared at the ground for a moment, he then looked back up to the lab and swallowed hard.

“You are fearful Master Ward, she whispered of dark times?” Odman said softly.

Ward stared off into the dark toward the Coldmare, night was deep and his eyes now seemed to tire with an uncontrollable heavi-ness.

“Good bye Odman, for now I suppose,” was all Ward said and he took off toward the river with a quick pace. When Odman was

- 27 -

out of sight Ward heard the skunk faintly yell out, “What did she say Ward, WHAT DID SHE SAY?”

The darkness was surrounding Ward as he moved swiftly. It al-most seemed like he was not moving at all, as he pushed forward the sound of the Coldmare helped lead the way. The silence around him was mysterious and filled him with a slight fear but he pushed onward as the crickets sang songs of happiness off in the darkness. The river was now not far off and Ward slowed his pace in fear of tumbling into its wild waters.

“Kezwick?” he whispered into the dim moonlight, “Donetrun?”There was no answer, he was now walking even slower and with

each step he took soft breaths listening for voices or movement. Then a noise caught his attention a ways ahead, a small what seemed to be whisper and a slight shuffling. Ward paused for a moment and then slowly moved forward straining to see what was ahead. A few moments later he suddenly came in view of a large dark mass that was double his size and he froze in terror. It then spoke in a low grumble causing Ward to step slightly backward.

“Come with ill intentions and you will feel our wrath!”Ward took a strong stance and spoke back to the large mass, “I

mean no harm I am looking for two of my companions that were by the Coldmare River.”

“Master Ward.” a much more pleasant voice answered, “Is that you?”

Kezwick stepped into the light that glowed faintly and smiled at the lab; Ward smiled back and calmly took a breath. Donetrun then closed the span of his wings and joined his two friends with a laugh.

“It is late Master Ward and much of the night remains, we should rest and then make our way back to the East Pond,” said the duck. He then once again raised his left wing and with a thud a pile of greenery fell to the bed of grass below, “eat and then we rest.”

King Cuezwatt’s Feast—

The Gathering

- 28 -

—After pondering over the odd smelling plants Ward forced them

down. He was barely able to stand due to hunger. Then a decision was made that they would rest in some longer grasses that grow not far from Odman’s hill. Kezwick lay close to Ward who had fallen asleep almost the second they found a spot that was hidden away from the cold night air and from any unwanted company. Donet-run rested his head on his own back and curled into a tight ball of feathers. The pig looked at the moon for a moment until the deep sleeping breaths of Ward caused him to drift off.

* * * * *

A loud gust of air woke Kezwick and he slightly opened his eyes and looked at the long grass that surrounded them, there was sun-light gleaming through every blade. The blast of air came from the wings of Donetrun as he was landing a few paces away and Ward was already up sniffing the morning air.

“The sun rises in the south for another day Master Kezwick, rise up and back to the East Pond we go now,” the duck said turning to go, “ I took a look ahead Ward and everything is clear.”

Donetrun took off to the sky but not too far ahead. Kezwick saw that the sun was above the line of the Greens to the far south and the morning was cool and calm. The way back to East Pond was as wet and frustrating as Kezwick had remembered the first trip was, Ward once again walked ahead of the pig and Donetrun led the way flying ahead of them. To Kezwick the way back seemed longer than the way there but just when he thought madness would take him they reached the East Pond. Donetrun landed on the swampy grass along the ponds’ edge and Ward and the pig stood on the drier grasses a little ways away covered in wet grass and soaked hair.

“We’re just in time my friends,” Donetrun said looking back at the two of them. “In time for what,” Kezwick asked with a puzzled

- 29 -

look.Three large ducks came out of some of the taller weeds along

the pond and stood all around Donetrun their faces were still and looked almost like stone, Ward and Kezwick recognized one right away as he suddenly answered Kezwick’s question.

“King Cuezwatt’s feast of course,” said Willie with a stern look.Kezwick and Ward followed the guards which were now being

led by Donetrun; the pace was fast as they made their way around the west side of the pond. Kezwick again marveled at the sight of the ducks that filled the sky above the pond’s still waters. Ward was not marveling at anything that surrounded them. His face was covered in fear and anger, his thoughts were full of hopelessness and doubt and his heart was breaking due to the fact that Peller was somewhere beyond his reach.

“We are coming up to the Lily Pad Palace soon,” Donetrun an-nounced at the head of the group.

They were now at the upper west point of East Pond and the number of ducks had tripled, Kezwick’s jaw drop as low as it could as he looked in all different directions and a little ways ahead stood a large round object that stood half on land and half on water, it was the Lily Pad Palace of the East Pond. It stood thirty feet high and stretched what seemed one hundred feet long, it was weaved together with the finest vines that could be found in the land and was covered by wild flowers that bloomed bright colours of all kinds. As they came up to the palace Kezwick stared at its beauty and was speechless, even Ward let his worries fade for a moment as he looked at the spectacular workmanship that past generations had created, nothing could brake through the walls of the palace and with the size of army the ducks had what beast would bother.

“Welcome to the Lily Pad Palace masters,” Donetrun said as they stood before the large gates.

The gates were shut and were closed almost all the time to be


The Gathering

- �0 -

—safe of trouble that may be wandering the pond. A soft lime green moss covered the gates and small white blossoms dotted its outside. Large wood handles that were as smooth as ivory looked almost untouched while a knocker the size of a wild dogs head that was slightly covered by the moss sat centered on the left gate.

“No need to knock pig and dog, we lead passage,” said Willie with a grumble then loudly he added, “open the gates!”

A loud clang echoed from inside and then slowly the large gates opened without a creek. Light from outside streamed in and soft floating feathers fell all around, Donetrun and Willie walked in and other ducks followed. Donetrun stopped and looked back he smiled and waved for his two companions to come in. As they entered they both looked all around and saw ducks lined up holding long staffs high in the air, light gleamed through the vines high above and caused the helmets that the ducks were wearing to glow. Kezwick looked in all directions seeing tall stone statues of long past duck lords and large nests sat all about the inside of the palace. Ward also eyed the magnificent place and was lost for words.

“Laying my eyes upon the Coldmare is not near as breathtaking as this,” whispered Kezwick, “is it not beautiful Master Ward?”

“Indeed Kezwick, it is,” Ward answered still looking about, “but other matters muddle my mind.”

“Of course,” the pig finished.Donetrun led the way as they walked slowly down a corridor

that was lined on both sides by ducks baring helmets and staffs not a word was said until they all came to a sudden stop. At the end of the corridor was a large wooden throne that stood high and large guards stood on both sides. Then the king of East Pond rose from the throne and a lopsided crown sparkled atop his head, the ducks all bowed in order the last ones being Donetrun and Willie and seeing this Ward and Kezwick quickly bowed also.

“All hail King Cuezwatt!” Donetrun said loudly.

- �1 -

“HAIL KING CUEZWATT!” all the other ducks said as it echoed throughout the palace.

Cuezwatt bowed back and made his way down the steps that led up to the throne, his large cloak dragged behind him coloured green and covered in the same white blossoms that dotted the front gates. The king then spoke; “Donetrun my finest guard and the almighty Williewatt, the feast awaits so why do you come to see me at the throne on this glorious morning.”

“Guests have arrived with Donetrun my king,” Willie said inresponse. Cuezwatt looked slowly over at Ward he stared for a moment and then brought his gaze upon Kezwick, the pig gave a slight smile as Ward stood still and silent they would not speak until the king had spoke to them first. Cuezwatt then looked back to his two finest guards.

“Are these the two that you ventured with a day ago without my consent Donetrun?” the king then asked.

“Yes my lord but time was short and they needed my help, I owed Master Ward because of his deeds many years ago,” Donetrun answered without hesitation.

The king looked back again now to the pig and dog. He was still and silent and it made Kezwick uneasy. Ward was becoming impa-tient and was almost prepared to walk out. If it hadn’t been for his hunger he probably would have.

“Lord Lab Ward and young Master Kezwick of the yard what brings you so far from home?” the king said finally.

“My son is missing and I came looking for answers,” Ward saidsternly, “Master Kezwick came along to keep me company.”

“Did you find the answers that you seek?”“Not all but some,” Ward said lowering his head, “I must get

back to the yard.”The king looked about the palace and he lifted his bill high into


The Gathering

- �2 -

—the air sniffing softly. A smile then glowed on his face and he ad-justed his cloak, stepping down the stairs and standing now at the feet of the two yard animals he said; “You will join us for the feast, tell us of your troubles, and only then will you leave for the yard.”

Ward bowed and did not question. Kezwick also bowed and then yelped out a rude question without thinking.

“What will we be feasting on; I hope it is not that awful green-ery!”

The ducks all stopped and stared at the pig who had now real-ized how rude his yelp had been. Before Willie could retort the king spoke up quickly in response.

“We will be feasting on greenery yes but we will also be enjoying fresh fish and water from the East Pond,” the king smiled directly at Kezwick and continued, “honesty is a gift Master Kezwick do not be ashamed of it. If only all could be as honest as you then maybe this would be a better land to live in. The wind breaths warning of dark days of late and I feel your honesty will bring you past all the darkness that may shadow us all one day.”

Kezwick nodded and smiled back at the king as the rays of sungleamed off his crown.

“Then let us eat and I will tell you of the tales that we have come across so far,” the pig answered without fear of being out of order, and they did feast heartily and Kezwick told the order of ducks about the past few days well all the while Ward toiled in his own thoughts.

- �� -

Meetings at the Yard

AFTER the feast was finished Donetrun was the first to getup from his spot and slowly make his way over to King Cuezwatt while all the others that were still seated con-

versed. Laughter and glee was loud around the large wooden table and Donetrun bent down close to the king’s ear. Cuezwatt got to his feet and walked away from the table with Donetrun after what had been whispered to him.

Ward was the next to leave the table and he did after mentioning their departure to Kezwick.

“I must first thank the king and then we will be heading back to the yard with haste,” he said. Kezwick remained seated as Ward walked off in the direction that he had noticed the two ducks go in.

* * * * *

The king and Donetrun were alone for the moment and Cuez-watt did not yet know why. Donetrun seemed bothered as he paced about wondering how to go about asking what it was he wanted to ask.

“I have other matters to tend to Donetrun, what is it that you what to ask?” the king questioned impatiently.

Donetrun paused for a moment and then spoke; “I believe that I am meant to go and finish my dues owed to Master Ward,” he began, “we both know that the wind tells of danger ahead and I think Ward needs his companions at his side, only for a while I do suppose.”

The Gathering

- �4 -

—“Ward told you this?”“Well no but I see fear and anger in his eyes and I believe that

others will find it hard to trust his words of what may have to be done,” Donetrun said not yet looking at the king in the eye.

“So you wish to leave also, like your oldest brother before you?” the king said trying to look in Donetrun’s eyes, “I had three sons, Costwatt was the oldest, Williewatt next and then along came a small little thing that looked only to be a ball of feathers big.”

Donetrun smiled as he still had not looked the king in the eye.“The little one became the biggest and strongest, the one that

would protect us all from any dangers of the land,” the king contin-ued, “and now that son wishes to leave on some silly venture that he knows nothing of.”

Donetrun turned to the king and now looked him in the eyes with the outmost strength and the king looked back into Donetrun’s eyes.

“I will return father, I give you my word.”Ward suddenly walked out into the corridor that the two ducks

stood talking in, they all were quiet for a moment as Ward glanced at them both wondering what it was they were talking about.

“My company and I will be off now I just wanted to thank you both personally,” Ward said breaking the silence.

Cuezwatt nodded at the lab and then strolled over to him with a smile Donetrun followed but did not stand as close as the king.

“You and your company are welcome to joy us here at the palace whenever need be,” said the king, then with a quick glance at Done-trun he continued. “From what I understand you have troubles that need to be taken seriously.”

Ward stared at the king for a moment without a word and then cleared his throat.

“My son Peller is missing and I must get back to the yard as soon as possible,” he said with but a stutter.

- �5 -

“Beyond this secure palace and the safe keeping of your beloved yard are many toils and danger it is always good to have all elements of a strong company,” the king said and then as he finished his speech he turned to his son, “Donetrun will go along with you and your compan-ion for as long as you will need his service.”

Donetrun’s head came up fast and shock streamed across his face followed by a surprised smile. Ward stood silent for a moment and then cleared his throat.

“I am most grateful for your offer but I do not what to endanger any of your order,” the lab said looking to the floor.

“Donetrun has already made the decision for himself and he wishes to go,” Cuezwatt said still looking into his son’s eyes, Donetrun nods at his father with thanks.

“So you do wish to come with us Donetrun?” Ward asks.“I owe you more then just a passage to the skunk’s hill and I think

I also need to do this for myself,” Donetrun answered with the hope of Ward agreeing.

“Then let it be so with the approval of the king of East Pond,” Ward said with a smile and King Cuezwatt approved at the very moment Ward finished his decision.

* * * * *

The East Pond was informed of the news and most where shocked that the king would give leave to his finest guard and son. Willie was upset but hid it with his stubborn personality; he only wished his broth-er well and left

the room quickly. Some say that he found a quiet place and cried loudly. The king was the last to see them off and he reminded Kezwick about his gift of honesty. The three friends left East Pond as the sun sat at its peak in the sky.

* * * * *

Meetings at the Yard—

The Gathering

- �6 -

—

Donetrun flew high above as Ward and Kezwick walked a steady pace in the direction of the fields, the fence was only a few miles away and the feast had seemed to have given them the strength of a horse. A long while later Donetrun came down in front of the lab and tucked in his wings.

“The fence is close and if we angle slightly a little to the north we will come across Odman’s hole,” he announced. Ward nodded in thanks and they angled north.

“It’s very helpful having you with us master duck,” Kezwick said walking in the rear. Ward lead with Donetrun in the middle.

They all went silent for a moment as long grasses crunched un-der there steps. The wind caused the higher grass to sway.

“I do not know if either of you noticed but ever since we started back there has been a strange odor in the air,” the pig said suddenly wondering if they had smelt it and said nothing.

“I hadn’t until I came down and traveled with you both on foot,” Donetrun answered.

Ward stopped suddenly and looked back at the two of them.“It’s Odman,” he said simply and then turned and continued to-

ward the fence which was now in sight.Kezwick found he was glancing back every so often but seeing

nothing but the high grasses that covered the ground on the way to and from the East Pond. The smell was still quite strong and it caused him to cover his nose once in while. As they finally came to the fence the three of them stared up at its towering height, Donet-run then without hesitation flapped his wings and was on the other side. The pig and dog eyed the fence for the hole when the ducks head suddenly popped out of it just a little ways up.

“Over here my friends,” he said with a smile.They made there way over to the hole when Ward stopped and

looked toward the grasses, something was close by as the sound of

- �7 -

grass crunching filled the air. Kezwick noticed that the odor of the skunk had strangely vanished and now a different smell drifted about.

“Go through the fence hole Kezwick, quickly now!” Ward said with a harsh whisper.

Without question the pig went through to the other side and Ward remained where he was for the moment. He stared at the grasses which were swaying in the breeze, all was silent. To the left then to the right he watched and listened. Sounds of steps and breathing were coming from many directions; Ward prepared him-self for an ambush.

A stillness came and Ward calmed him self again listening as his ears twitched about straining for noise. Then fast moving crunches of dry grass came clear and were heading right toward him, Ward became overwhelmed with worry and turned toward the fence hole. A smell filled the air with a different stench, one that caused fear.

Ward scrambled as he pushed to get through the hole but he was stuck. Donetrun and Kezwick grabbed on to his front paws and pulled with all their might. Ward yelped as something seemed to be pulling him back to the other side.

“It’s them,” the lab whispered as his eyes filled with terror, hegroaned in pain as the two sides pulled.

“GIVE US THE STONE!!” a voice hissed from the other side.Harder they pulled as Ward suddenly kicked his hind legs and

throwing back whatever it was holding him. The three came tum-bling into the fields and all glanced at the fence hole almost instant-ly. Three dark faces peered back at them through the hole, their eyes glowed with an evil red fire and their teeth were sharp and stained. Kezwick looked away as Donetrun and Ward continued to stare.

“Give us the black stone dog!” the three dark faces said togeth-er.

The ground then began to tremble and a loud pounding filled


The Gathering

- �8 -

—the air. Ward and the other two looked around when out of no where the Horse Lords came running past as grass and mud flew all about. They moved to the side to avoid being trampled as one of the larger horses bellowed; “OUT OF THE WAY!” then in but a few moments the large pack of charging horses was beyond speech.

“The afternoon run,” Kezwick said regaining his senses.They all looked to the hole again and the dark faces where

gone.“What were they Master Ward, what was it they were seeking?”

asked the pig who now was realizing the dangers abroad. “Shadow weasels,” Donetrun answered, “They never sleep and

this is why the winds have been warning me of danger so often.”“The shadows,” Kezwick whispered, “The shadows that the large

oak saw.”Ward paused for a moment and took a deep breath, Donetrun

and the pig went silent and looked to their leader.“We go to the yard and inform them . . . . then I must see

Mezamir the Wise for I have been told to do so,” Ward said looking full of sorrow, “I do not mean to bring you any fear or worry but my son is in trouble.”

Ward began to weep softly as Donetrun and Kezwick walked up to his sides he looked up at his two companions with tear filled eyes.

“With fear or worry we will carry out with what needs to be done that’s what friends do,” Donetrun said, “lets us continue onward.”

At that, the three pushed on through the fields toward the yard to start a venture of uncertainty.

* * * * *

When they reached the soft green grass of the yard there was not much going on. Kezwick took a deep breath and smiled at the

- �9 -

way the air had a certain taste in his mouth that was home. The afternoon was giving a cool breeze and they all felt a slight shiver up their spines. The Horse Lords still ran hard out in the fields and Kezwick just in a matter of a few days realized already how much he had missed that.

“I must go to the old barn,” Ward said making his way there at a faster pace, “you stay here with Donetrun Kezwick.”

At that Ward was running softly over to the old barn which was in plain view of where they were standing. Kezwick then began to make his way over to the yards house in hopes that food was there waiting for him, he imagined a pile of fresh cabbage, old boiled po-tato’s and tasty soaked tea bags. Donetrun followed the pig around to the front trying to find out where Kezwick was headed.

“Kezwick, where are you going?” the duck asked.The pig stopped dead in his tracks to find not but a single soaked

tea bag. He then glanced over at the small dog house that was sit-ting to the left of the house, the pig stomped over with anger.

“You ate it all wee Mischief,” the pig said loudly, “every last piece!”

A snore echoed from the inside of the dog house. Kezwick kicked the side of it and the snore turned into a sudden snort and then a yawn. A small head poked out and it was the sleepy eyed Mischief.

“My heavens you have returned Kezzy,” the miniature schnauzer said with a half grin.

“Yes I have and all my food is gone!” Kezwick said with anger.“Silly pig I haven’t ate it, the farmer stopped leaving it out after

you had vanished,” Mischief answered putting his head down on his front paws, he then raised his head again. “Where did you go?”

“Never mind you,” Kezwick said as he turned and walked away,Donetrun followed after the pig passed him.

* * * * *


The Gathering

- 40 -

—

The barn seemed quiet as Ward stopped at the doors, they were half open and he stuck his head inside to see mostly darkness, dust floated about in the afternoon sun that snuck in through the cracked wood walls of the barn. He then walked in slowly and sniffed the damp air.

“Sit Ward,” a soft voice said coming from somewhere off in the dim light, Ward sat right away knowing who it was that spoke to him.

“Where have you been Ward it’s been a few days now that you took leave and worry has burdened me very much,” the soft voice added before Ward could speak.

Ward swallowed hard before he answered.“I had to leave and get some answers,” he said simply.“Answers . . . . to what, why my son is gone, why my love is

gone?” the soft voice said now not sounding so soft, at that moment a female lab stepped into the rays of sunlight. Her eyes gleamed blue like a clear summer sky and her hair was shimmering and smooth. It was Bernice, the mate of Ward and the mother of Peller.

“You will understand soon my love I am bringing together the yard for a meeting to tell of what is to come,” Ward looked at Ber-nice and gave a weak smile, “troubled times are ahead.”

“My son is gone and you let him go,” Bernice said with tears in her eyes.

“He is gone yes,” Ward answered looking to the ground, he then raised his head, “but I promise that I will bring him back.”

* * * * *

The yard came together after Ward had spread the word. The afternoon was beginning to fade and most of the animals where dis-gruntled with the sudden meeting. Horse Lords stood along the

- 41 -

fences with a couple bulls, chickens and the single rooster also showed up. Kezwick stood along side Donetrun and Mischief slowly made his way up and stood on the other side giving the pig a smirk.

“And who might you been master duck?” Mischief asked.“I am Donetrun of the East Pond I have come on a venture to

help Master Ward in troubled times,” the duck answered.“This is wee Mischief, his name says it all,” Kezwick said and the

three of them laughed all in good fun.Ward eyed the crowd and noticed that the cats of the loft were

not present but this was expected. He also noticed that Marvel the Warthog was missing, Marvel was the strongest and oldest next to Geez the old cat. The animals all talked quietly as Ward cleared his throat.

“Has anyone see Marvel?” he asked.“The warthog cares nothing for yard business, he only cares for

sleep and food,” the rooster answered as some of the other animals laughed.

Bernice walked up to Ward’s side as the animals continued to talk and laugh paying no mind to the lab.

“Marvel is in the old barn and you know as well as I he will not come out for this kind of thing,” Bernice said standing tall beside Ward, “say what you must for time is turning and our son is not safe.”

Ward turned to the crowd; “My son is missing” they stopped talking and were listening now, “a few days ago I awoke to find my son gone. Some spoke of shadows that snuck about the yard through the night and shadows they were. Mermon, Blum, and Blomm the shadow weasels took my son right out from under our noses,” the crowd was shocked by the names Ward had said for the very thought of the shadow weasels being in the yard was horrifying.

“Why did they take Peller!” one of the bulls yelled loudly.“I do not know for certain . . . . ”


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—“LIIIEESSSS!” a voice hissed from the crowd, “you lie dog.”

Geez Gap crept through the crowd and laid his gaze upon Ward, his tail swayed carefully back and forth.

“Yes, the dog lliiieeesss,” Geez Jr. added.“How kind of you to grace us with your presence,” Ward said

nodded his head.The two cats sat at the front of the crowd while Geez Gap slowly

licked his front paws. He then turned to the crowd himself and spoke loudly.

“This dog is endangering the entire yard with the burdens he brings with him. He and Peller have always caused problems for us all and now he summons you all and tells lies,” Gap said without the slightest flinch.

“Your father will not agree with your actions Gap,” Ward said trying to stop his interruption.

Gap turned and looked into Ward’s eyes; the lab felt a chill go up his spin.

“Father is dead,” Gap answered with an evil hiss, “Of course you would have known if you hadn’t been off bringing burdens back with you.”

The crowd was still now and listening closely to Ward and Gap bickering. Geez the old had past away in his sleep the night of the first day Kezwick and Ward had left the yard, Geez Gap had wan-dered around blaming the pig and dog for coming and tiring the old cat with foolish questions, this also now made Marvel the oldest animal in the yard.

“Step aside you selfish cat and let Master Ward speak,” Donet-run said causing the yard to look at the duck in shock.

“Ah yes,” Gap continued, “he brings in strangers and he himself talks of shadowed strangers in the night. So what does this tell you of your master lab and his loyalty to the safety of the yard?”

The animals all began to speak out and argue. Kezwick felt his

- 4� -

blood begin to boil as the arguing became louder and louder and he suddenly burst out again, so unlike me he thought afterward; “THEY WANT THE BLACK STONE!”

The crowd went dead quiet as their eyes widened with fear. Even the cats had gone silent with their tails sitting still for the first time in a long while. Ward glared at the pig for a moment and then looked around at all the other animals. Then suddenly the Master Mane of the Horse Lords spoke up in an angry tone of voice, he was the oldest of the horses and had also fought in the Silver Side war of the past.

“Is it true that you hold such evil within the yard, how is that possible and why?” the old horse asked.

“The stone is here yes but is safe from evil hands, the stone is not evil itself it only holds the evil of the past,” Ward explained.

“This is very dangerous Master Ward, to have such a thing in a place like this could be disastrous and many could parish,” the Mas-ter Mane said more calmly.

Ward shifted with worry as the crowd continued to stare. He closed his eyes for a moment and cleared his mind; she then spoke to him again in his head but only for a moment; “Go to the High Willow and speak with Mezamir the Wise,” the voice said softly, “he will know what road to choose.”

Ward opened his eyes and the crowd was beginning to stir. He then took a deep breath and began to explain as the sun was now dropping below the tree line to the north.

“Long ago when the land was ravaged by animals fighting over land and food the Wolves of the Silver Side Wood devised a plan to take over all the lands and have all breeds bow to their order. The high spirit wolf named Dark Sky was the head of the entire army, also joining the wolves were the weasels of the Black Dens, the wild dogs of Swift Forest and the rats of The Deep Gully. They began by taking over all the land to the east but that was easy seeing as they


The Gathering

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—owned so much of it. The land to the west would be the challenge and Mother Nature had already prepared, she had brought togetherher own army and would not go down without a fight.”

The crowd now listened as the moon was giving just enough glow to show the gleam in Ward’s eyes.

“Led by a young and powerful owl by the name Mezamir, the army of the west advanced first crowding into the Golden Fields to the north of the Great Swift Highway and the High Lands to the south. At the front was Mezamir, the entire breed of Horse Lords, Gezwick the pig and Marvel the Warthog to fight for their freedom and finally the rabbits of Thick Brush showed up and the war began. In the end the west won in a battle that saw many good animals die. Mother Nature had brought Dark Sky to the Mushroom Fields and trapped his spirit within the black stone afterwards and there he remains.”

“So why is the stone here in the yard?” asked the Master Mane.“Mother Nature gave the stone to Mezamir to keep in the High

Willow but over time the wise owl grew scared of the stone and could no longer hold it. So he passed it on to my father in secret to keep here in the yard. I knew nothing of it until the day my father past on when he told me everything I have just told you now.” Ward said taking a deep breath.

The crowd began to talk to each other in a big panic; Bernice looked at Ward and smiled. He then finished; “I must save my son but I also must keep the stone away from the animals that mean to break it.”

“And what if the stone is broken?” Gap said speaking for the first time since learning of the stone.

“Then Dark Sky will muster another army that possibly could finish what they had started in the first place. The stone only needs to be broken and the dark days of the past will return.”

The Horse Lords suddenly began to walk out into the fields and

- 45 -

all the other animals watched with shock.“Where are you all going?” Ward yelled out.The oldest Horse Lord turned with a look of fear in his eye;

“We fought long ago and lost too many of our young and old, this is something that you must deal with Master Ward in anyway that you can, just without us.”

The last horse to walk away was the colt that had taken them across the fields a few days ago. The rooster and chickens walked away next with there faces covered in worry and all the other yard animals followed. All that remained were Ward and Bernice stand-ing side by side, the cats of the loft, and the three that had been laughing before the honest truth had slipped out of one of their mouths.

“I could care less about your son dog but I care for this yard,” Gap said with his brother close to his side, “take the stone away and do what you must, I will do what I can to protect the yard.”

“Take the stone away yes, do what you must,” Geez Jr. repeat-ed.

The cats walked off back toward the old barn with their tails swaying and were gone. Ward stood silent for a moment, Bernice could not take her eyes off him as she knew what was to come of all this. Donetrun, Kezwick, and Mischief all walked up to the lab and they all stood in a circle.

“I will leave at first light and head south toward the High Willow there I must seek Mezamir the Wise, he will know what to do,”Ward said as sorrow spread across Bernice’s face.

“I will come with you Master Ward my good friend,” Donetrun said stepping up beside the lab.

Ward nodded in happiness to know that he would not be alone.“I have come this far and find out that the times may only get

worse so at this point I will not be left behind, I will come also,” Kezwick said with a look of worry in his face.


The Gathering

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—“And I,” Mischief said loudly with a smile on his face, “the yard

has been such a bore of late.”“Wee Mischief this is not a game, this is a dangerous decision

that you speak so freely about,” Ward said thinking against him coming along.

“I am serious Master Ward, I will come along and be a helpfulcompanion,” the wee dog said defending his pride.

Bernice looked at Ward with a longing that left her heart bro-ken. Ward knew right away what it was she wanted to ask and he spoke quickly before her.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea Bernice I would feel better know-ing you were safe in the yard,” he said.

Bernice was quiet for a moment and then finished the conversa-tion.

“I will come to the High Willow with you at dawn, after all I have a better eye for the flying steel that passes by on Swift the Great Highway,” she said with confidents.

“Flying steel?” Mischief asked with a sudden look of terror.

- 47 -

Passing Over the Swift

THE sun was coming up slowly in the south and thickclouds that covered it were causing the land to lookgloomy and dull. The yard had a look of abandonment

due to the fear that was gripping all the animals wondering if the shadow weasels would sneak up on one of them. They stayed inside and stuck close to one another and all wished deep inside that Ward would take the stone away from the yard.

Kezwick stuck his head out of his little hut and then stepped out into the gloomy morning air he took a deep breath and then looked about. The ground beneath him suddenly became warm and the large oak began to moan as its limbs moved slowly.

“Yes, the day seems very dreary doesn’t it,” the pig answered. Then the oak moaned asking Kezwick about his venture.

“I sleep so much better here at home but being outside the yard has been quite adventurous and also dangerous.”

Kezwick looked up at the large oak and smiled, “You have always been my favorite old friend and if I do not return after my next ad-venture you must remember just that.”

The large oak moaned softly and then the ground beneath Kez-wick became cool once more. The pig then started to make his way over toward the old barn. Some of the animals were stirring but nothing was being said so Kezwick slipped through the front doors of the barn which were slightly open. The barn had a musty cold feel that morning and the thought of passing over the Swift made Kezwick shiver; he had heard many stories of yard animals trying to

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—pass and not making it by the flying steel. His mind was in such a tizzy that he did not even realize that Ward was standing off in the dark, he had his eyes shut and his head was down.

“I will,” he whispered and then his eyes opened, “lord Kezwick, good morning my little friend.”

Kezwick nodded, “I came to see if you were up,” he said.“I have been up for many hours even before the sun was peek-

ing, Bernice just awoke so our time to leave is near,” Ward said as he stepped into the light, “If at all you are fearful of going I will under-stand if you change your mind.”

“I think I am meant to go and I will go where ever this ordeal takes us,” Kezwick answered as his courage seemed to be getting stronger.

Bernice came into the light as her beautiful eyes shone she smiled a warm smile at Kezwick and the pig smiled back. The barn doors opened more then they already were and daylight filled the barn. Donetrun walked in followed by a tired looking Mischief.

“Good morning my friends of the yard are we ready to journey south to the High Willow,” Donetrun said in a loud voice.

Kezwick spoke up loudly, “Indeed master duck.”

* * * * *

The five of them started down southward of the yard toward the Swift. Animals were spread about the yard watching without saying a word; they peeked around corners and watched from shadowed places. Geez Jr. looked out from the loft high atop the barn.

“Be well,” he yelled out and then the faint sound of a scolding from Gap was heard.

They continued and were now walking in high green grass that grew all around the south area of the yard it was the shortest dis-tance of all the lengths to the fence. The green grasses were wet as

- 49 -

the moisture in the air and they all were soaked already. Kezwick grunted in frustration as it brought back memories of traveling to East Pond. Donetrun lead the way followed by Ward and Bernice, Kezwick next and Mischief brought up the rear. The duck stopped abruptly and raised a wing, the others stopped.

“Do you smell that?” Donetrun whispered back to Ward.Yes I do,” he answered quietly. There was a smell that was familiar and it caused them to fill

with fear, it was the smell that filled the air when the shadow weasels had came after Ward. There was also another smell that was stron-ger which meant that Odman was closer then the shadows.

Donetrun leaned in close to Ward, “I’m going to fly ahead and see where Odman is. He must be much closer then the shadows because if the shadows are near Odman would be long gone,” Done-trun flapped his powerful wings and was high above the others with-in seconds.

Ward and the others huddled together deep in the green grass. Donetrun was now out of the sight and the smells in the air were very strong Ward turned to the other three, “When we get to the Swift I think that we should travel east along the highway until we reach the Coldmare Bridge. Then we will cross over the Swift to the other side.”

“Why not pass at where we meet it?” Mischief asked.“Passing at the point we’re headed in will take us directly into

Thick Brush, we could get lost for days in there. I think we should pass through the Crabby Trees toward the High Willow, but we must cross at the bridge to reach that point,” Ward concluded.

“Then toward the bridge it is,” Kezwick added.At that moment Donetrun came down as his wings blew off

a large gust of air, he then spoke loudly; “We must run now!” he said out of breath, “Ward you cover the rear and I will take to the air low behind you the rest of you run south toward the

Passing Over the Swift—

The Gathering

- 50 -

—Swift . . . . RUN!”

They hadn’t realized that the smell had gotten stronger as they began to run. The smell of Odman had vanished and now the foul shadow smell was strong. Kezwick was behind wee Mischief nudg-ing him from behind to move faster while Bernice was in front. Bernice listened carefully as she ran so they wouldn’t come charging out on to the Swift without warning, she could hear the faint sound of the flying steel.

A little ways back Ward ran lightly as the long wet grasses slapped against his face, every so often he turned to look behind him and then a quick glance at the sky above.

“Turn to face them Ward, they are too close now!!” Donetrun yelled from somewhere above.

Ward stopped and turned bracing himself, his teeth were show-ing as he growled deeply and the hair on his back stood straight up. Only a few moments later shiny eyes peered out from between the blades of thick grass.

Ward’s head swung from side to side as the eyes moved all about, he growled louder and lowered himself ready to jump.

“Come if you must!” he yelled “I do not fear you!!”Mermon stepped out, he wore an old tattered leather hat that

covered his ears and his cloths were black and full of holes. He smiled an evil smile showing his razor sharp teeth which were stained red, his claws were long and sharp and some of the ends were broken off. He had long whiskers which were black and bent and his nose covered in what looked to be old scars.

“Where is the black stone dog,” he hissed. Then Blomm came out of the long grass followed by Blum. They wore hole riddled leather vests and there was burlap tied around there feet with tat-tered rope. There ears stood high for tracking and they had chunks missing from the tops of them, Blomm wore a patch over his left eye.

- 51 -

“Where is it,” Blomm snarled.“I do not know what you speak of,” Ward answered keeping his

stance. The shadows snickered and began to surround Ward slowly.“We have your son you stubborn yard animal and his life is in

our hands. We decide whether he lives or dies giving us the black stone is the only way to save him,” Mermon explained.

“Where is it,” Blum added loudly.The shadows advanced in on Ward and he suddenly lunged out

at Mermon slamming into his chest, the weasel flew backward gasp-ing for air and landed in a heap off in the wet long grass. He lay there moaning and coughing slightly. Blomm and Blum stopped and bared their claws snarling at Ward when out of nowhere came Donetrun flying in low clipping the heads of both Blomm and Blum with his wings. They were instantly down on their backs due to the force created by the speed the duck was moving at and laid there still and dazed from the blow to their heads. Mermon was now strug-gling to get to his feet.

“Run Ward run!” said Donetrun as he took off again. Ward turned and ran toward the Swift as fast as he could hoping the oth-ers were safe. As he ran he heard Mermon bellowing out something unclear but he had a good idea what it may be.

Bernice was at a good pace as Kezwick and Mischief did their best to keep up with her. The sound of flying steel was closer with each step as the wet grass was now becoming shorter. Bernice could now see clearly what was around them.

“Quickly now you two the Swift is near,” Bernice yelled back to the others.

“What about Ward?” Mischief said as he began to tire. “Ward can look after himself, do not fear,” she answered with

confidence. Then Bernice slowed down to a light jog and Kezwick and Mis-


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—chief caught up quickly. Her eyes were wide as she stared ahead, off in the distance sat the Great Swift Highway. The clouds had slightly broken up and the sun was peeking through. Roars filled the air and they saw the gleam of the flying steel, to witness the speed alone would strike as much fear as meeting with one head on. One after another flew by in both directions each giving off a loud roar at its passing.

“Goodness me how will we ever cross that,” wee Mischief said staring at the highway.

“Come on we’re not there yet,” Kezwick added as he moved to-ward it.

The three of them moved together as Ward suddenly came burst-ing out of the longer grasses and Donetrun swooped down low and landed close to the others. Bernice ran back toward her mate as Donetrun walked up beside them, the other two stood where they were in fear of the shadows not being far off as the smell was still about.

“We must head east now toward the Coldmare Bridge,” Ward said trying to catch his breath.

Without question they all started along the uneven land toward the bridge, with each passing of the flying steel they all would look up at the same time. Ward stopped and looked about again his face was full of a different fear now, a hopeless fear; he closed his eyes for a moment.

“Ward we must keep moving,” Donetrun insisted.Ward was still and his eyes opened again.“She said a worse enemy is near one that none of us can beat and

is within a few paces away,” Ward muttered in a panic, “Donetrun you take to the sky you’ll be safe there.”

“But I’m not just going . . . . ” Ward cut Donetrun’s plea off short.

“Go on then!!”

- 5� -

The duck took off into the sky again and flew toward the bridge. Ward quickly searched about in the low grass for somewhere to hide but the flat slightly uneven land bared no holes or bushes to hide around. He then looked to the highway and the others knew right away what he had in mind.

“We must cross now and do our best to travel east through Thick Brush, it’s the only way now,” Ward said as he moved toward the Swift, “Come along!!!” he yelled back.

They could see the bush that lined the other side of the highway, it stood seven feet tall and from where they stood it was impossible to see through. The rabbits owned all of Thick Brush and more often then not they did not take kindly to strangers only the rabbits knew the ways in and out of the brush, if any other animal entered without the guidance of a rabbit they would most likely not come back out.

They stood along the highway side by side as the flying steel whipped by in both directions. Ward watched for gaps and then turned to look at each of the others.

“When you start don’t stop, as soon as you step on the Swift you go directly across as fast as you can, don’t look back. We’ll go one at a time,” Ward demanded. He looked at Bernice and gave her a smile she knew what it meant.

Ward took a deep breath and eyed the highway to the left and then to the right. There was steel coming from both directions but they were a little ways back so Ward sprang off. He ran with all his might without looking back and just as he hit the other side he went slamming into the thorn covered bushes on the other side, he yelled out in pain but he made it.

“You next Master Kezwick,” Bernice said as Ward gained back his senses on the other side of the highway.

The smell in the air became stronger as the pig readied himself.“Be careful Kezzy,” said Mischief and Kezwick was off, there

had been a small opening that he had noticed and just as he made


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—it into the second lane flying steel roared past the first lane narrowly missing causing the pig to stumble. The second lane was clear at the time and he was able to cross without slamming into the bushes on the other side, he had made it.

“Okay wee Mischief wait for the opening and off you go,” Ber-nice looked to the east and the threat was in sight, a large wolf from Silver Side Wood was barreling toward them as grass flew into the air. Then also to the west the shadows were coming, but at a slower pace.

“Oh dear!” yelped Bernice. “Go Mischief RUN!!”Wee Mischief closed his eyes and ran, he could hear the flying

steel to his left and right and he whimpered as he stumbled forward. As he came to the second lane he was cut off by steel that ripped past and he stopped dead in his tracks. There wee Mischief sat crying with his eyes shut as steel flew toward him in both lanes. Ward was yelling at him to run but he was frozen with fear.

“My days end here,” he whispered to himself, “So soon!”“Not today!!” a voice roared as Donetrun swooped down and

picked up the wee dog by the scruff of his neck, the flying steel al-most clipped his toes and Donetrun flew east holding Mischief with all his might.

Finally Bernice saw an opening and was off she made it over the Swift faster than Ward had and avoided slamming into the bush on the other side. Just as she made it the wolf and weasels wandered about on the other side with their evil eyes staring. The wolf then looked to be preparing himself to come across. The shadow weasels looked to be readying themselves also.

Ward motioned for them to start along the edge of the thorn bushes which would prove quite difficult while being so close to the highway. They walked along carefully and every once and a while one would scratch themselves on the sharp thorns. Bernice saw that many thorns were still suck in deep all over Ward’s left side; blood was slowly running out of them but not heavily.

- 55 -

Across the highway the wolf and shadows waited for a clear chance to pass the Swift but they didn’t seem as daring. Finally the weasels backed away and ran off toward the east but the wolf was determined to cross. He noticed that Ward and the others were already a ways down the highway and fading from his sight so he decided to make his move but the flying steel had doubled since a while back.

* * * * *

“Look he’s crossing!” Kezwick yelled out to the others as he trav-eled at the rear.

The others looked back and all paused as the bursts of air from the flying steel caused their hair to sway. They were that close to the highway as the thorn bush did not leave much room.

“My goodness,” Bernice whispered as they all watched staying as close together as they could. None of them had ever witnessed an animal die on the Great Highway. The wolf was caught suddenly between lanes and turned to go back when he was struck by the fly-ing steel not once but four times and he was left at the far side of the Swift where the wolf took his final few breathes and lay motionless.

The others looked away after the first strike knowing the wolf would not live, Kezwick swallowed hard and tried to push up closer to the thorn bush to be further away from the flying steel.

“Come along you two,” Ward said as he pushed on, “the shadows will find another way.”

“What about wee Mischief and Donetrun?” the pig asked.“We must get to the edge of Thick Brush lord pig then we will

see to the others,” Ward finished.Bernice glanced back at Kezwick with a smile, “They will be fine

Kezwick you’ll see.” So with sharp thorns to their right and flying steel to their left they carefully pushed east.


- 57 -

Saving Master Ward

MISCHIEF opened his eyes as he felt the wind againsthis face he could also feel no ground below his feet.Donetrun slightly struggled holding the wee dog but

he was a strong duck. He planned to fly to the Coldmare Bridge and then land. He wanted to be as far away from the weasels as possible.

“Thick Brush goes on for miles,” said Mischief as he finally looked down.

“Home of the rabbits and no place for yard animals I assure you,” said Donetrun as he searched the ground, “I’ve heard that any who enter, do not come back out.”

Mischief stared at the long stretch of bush and shivered at the thought of being lost in there alone, “Try to land as far away from the bushes as you can my fine duck,” the wee dog muttered.

Donetrun laughed, “We will land on the east side of the Crab-by Trees as my legs are beginning to tire, from there we will travel to the Coldmare River and then walk south west toward the High Willow.”

“And I suppose the others will be there,” Mischief said thinkingabout his friends. “Of course they will wee Mischief, indeed they will,” Donetrun said as the sound of his wings soothed the wee dog’s fears.

Ward looked as though he was beginning to tire, his left side was starting to swell up and blood matted his hair. Bernice looked at him with deep sorrow thinking the worst but Ward was a strong dog

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—and he continued leading the way. Kezwick was a little ways back from them complaining to himself as he every so often would rub up against a thorn, it was very hard to avoid the thorns as the Swift was so close. The pig was also getting tired of the flying steel that passed continually blasting gusts of air at them.

“Come along Master Kezwick,” Ward said weakly, “the sun is past its peek and will soon drop in the north we must get to the edge of Thick Brush before sun down.”

“Ouch!!” yelped Kezwick as another thorn clipped his belly.“You are tired Ward, we must rest soon,” Bernice said trying to

get Ward to turn around and look at her.He did turn but only to scold, “Rest where Bernice, here on the

Swift or lay peacefully on the thorn bushes?” Ward continued on as the space between the Swift and the thorn bushes was becoming tighter. Soon Ward’s walk was turning into a stagger and once in a while his paws would touch down on the highway. There were still a few miles to reach the edge of Thick Brush and the sun was now only half showing. It gave the sky an orange glow and Kezwick stopped for a moment to stare as the flying steel as it continued to whip passed.

Ward stopped and sat hanging his head down low; his breathing seemed heavy and a bit of drool hung from his lower jaw. Bernice took a close look at the thorns that were stuck in his left side, they went from his neck all the way down to his hip and some had fallen out. The wounds were bleeding heavier.

“Ward you’re bleeding, what are we going to do?” Bernice said as she began to panic. The sun had but only a sliver left to the north and it was getting hard to see, bright flashes of light from the flying steel helped.

“We must continue . . . . not far now . . . . ” said Ward as he suddenly collapsed half on the highway. Bernice screamed and struggled to try and get him off to the side Kezwick stepped slightly

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on to the highway without thinking and helped by pushing with his head.

“He is going to die Kezwick we must do something,” Bernice yelled out as she tried her best to comfort Ward. He only moaned now and was not answering if his name was said. The pig looked to the east but all he could see was the bush stretching onward.

Kezwick took a deep breath and stepped past the two dogs. He swallowed hard and then turned back toward Bernice, “I’m going to find an old friend of mine,” he said bravely.

“Friend,” Bernice asked with a puzzled look.“I know the rabbits don’t take kindly to strangers but if I can

some how speak with Pocket I think I might be able to get Ward some help,” Kezwick explained.

Pocket was an old friend of the yard. He did not come to visit often but when he did it was always fun. Even in play Pocket was a big risk taker and he was as fast as lightening. Most of the time when he did venture up north to the yard he would take the time to play games with Kezwick and the rabbit would tell stories of the south and the tales of the history of the rabbits of the land. He really was just a good friend of Kezwick’s and was helpful and car-ing . . . . most of the time.

“Master pig it is dangerous for you to just go off on our own,” Bernice said with worry.

“What other choice do we have? Master Ward will die if I don’t,” the pig said as he looked to the east again, “and anyway its dark it would be harder for others to see me, yes this I must do. You stay with Master Ward and I will get help . . . . I promise.”

* * * * *

Donetrun had finally had enough of carrying wee Mischief anddecided to go in for an early landing. They passed the edge of Thick

Saving Master Ward—

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—Brush and the Crabby Trees were not far off. Closer and closer to the ground they got and at just the right moment Donetrun released the wee dog and he thumped to the ground with a slight thud. The duck landed gracefully and tucked in his wings.“You didn’t have to drop me some hard master duck,” Mischief saidshaking off the dirt he had picked up on his landing.

“You were not complaining when I lifted you off the Swift now were you?” Donetrun answered with a smirk.

The wee dog paused for a moment and then after a quick flash-back of the highway he replied, “Thank you my good friend,” and he bowed.

Donetrun looked east and stuck his beak in the air, the sun was about to vanish in the north and the duck needed food and shelter, “We will walk to the Crabby Trees there should be plenty of apples to feed us well and then we will find some good shelter there to rest a while. Then with still darkness we will venture to the Coldmare.”

Mischief walked up beside the duck and smiled, “Well let’s move on then friend the others could be waiting there as we speak.”

Donetrun lead the way and Mischief followed. The hunger in his bellygrowled as they pushed on. The land between Thick Brush and the Crabby Trees was covered in dry brown grass and small shrubs that looked as though they were about to die. Further ahead a large dark mass loomed that looked to be ten times taller then the Lily Palace and longer than the entire yard. The two of them slowly got closer over a long while, the shrubs around them were becom-ing bigger and small green leaves grew on them in bunches. In the center of the leaf bunches were small single pink flowers. Mischief leaned in to smell one and Donetrun quickly pushed him back.

“Crabby Bush, one smell and you will sleep for days,” the duck said bringing his wing down from pushing the wee dog back, “I’m not going to carry you all the way to the High Willow.”

Mischief swallowed hard and steered clear of the pretty small

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pink flowers. What had looked to be a large dark mass earlier was now clear to their eyes. The sun was gone and the moon was present, crickets had began to sing there sleepy songs and Mischief felt his eye lids drooping.

“The Crabby Trees,” Donetrun said pointing his wing out, they were only a few paces away. “I have only seen them from the sky.”

“From the look of them I think I would rather avoid the trees all together,” Mischief said as he sat staring at the weaving limbs of the trees.

Donetrun looked back at the wee dog with a grin, “Hunger has clearly caused you to become fearful wee dog, we will eat and then have a small rest, then before the sun comes up in the south we will travel to the Coldmare venture down the west bank until we reach The Fall and then west to see Mezamir.”

The Crabby Trees were still, the moon gave them an even scarier look then they had in the daylight. If one was to stand in amongst the trees they would not know if it were day or night, the limbs blocked out the sun. Plant life did not grow on the ground around the trees only large roots stuck up threw the dirt in the shape of miniature arched bridges and dead dry leaves of centuries ago lit-tered the ground.

Long before the wars of Silver Side the Crabby Trees were a lush forest full of life. The trees were tall and covered in bright green leaves and the forest floor had all different types of beautiful plant life scattered about it. Animals of all breeds lived and played there and over time it was named The Beautiful Forest. The trees grew and the forest began to stretch out across the west with its absolute beauty.

Rumor spread that a plague was moving west and Beautiful For-est was in its path. Men were building a highway and destroying everything that got in their way. Over a short period of time the men had reached the forest and with saw and plow they began to


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—work their way through. Trees fell, plant life suffered and most of the animals that did not flee died. Once where there had been a lush beauty of wilderness now sat a hard black cold surface that was a constant reminder of what used to be.

The trees that remained were full of hate and resentment, the highest limbs weaved together and blocked out the sun causing what ever plant life that was left to whither and die. The animals that stayed left quickly filled with fear of the angry trees, more roots then burst through the ground and the trees swelled up thick with anger meaning no saw could cut through them. The bark had fallen off to be replaced by a smooth black surface that resembled marble and every leaf of lush green fell to the forest floor below turning brown and dry.

When Mother Nature had realized the sorrow of the trees she cast a spell on the forest so that they would grow apples year round in hopes that the animals would return but none did. So much hate and loathing grew within the trees that the apples turned sour; to this day the trees and the dirt below are littered with them.

Over a long period of time the forest only became darker and there was word of war. Mother Nature came to the trees to hide deep within the darkness when the war began but the trees would not allow her to enter. All hope for the forest was lost thus becom-ing The Crabby Trees.

Mischief got to his feet and took a deep breath, “I am tired and there is still a long ways to go,” he said still looking at the thick black limbs of the trees “after all my good duck they are only trees.”

“That’s the spirit wee Mischief so come along with haste then,” Donetrun said as he walked toward the trees. Mischief followed with hesitation but his hunger and need for rest would not allow him to stop as they were only a few paces away from the Crabby Trees.

* * * * *

- 6� -

Kezwick stumbled along side the thorn bushes of Thick Brush with the Swift close by on his left. He did not turn back to look at Bernice as she comforted Master Ward, so with determination he pushed on in hopes that he would find a way into Thick Brush and get help. Hunger was catching up with him and sleep was not far off as his eye lids drooped causing him to rub up against the thorns every so often with a yelp.

“Better the thorns then the Swift I suppose,” he mumbled to himself.

Lights flashed as the flying steel went by and Kezwick caught glimpses of the thin path he jogged along. The thorn bushes were becoming more overgrown and even if the pig wanted to look back there would be no room for him to turn so at this point he had no choice but to continue until he came to the edge of the bush.

The air was cold and the darkness was beginning to take affect on Kezwick’s eyes. He began to see images of unknown animals wait-ing up ahead as each flash of light passed. The pig told himself that it was only because he was tired and it kept him going forward. He then thought of Master Ward and Bernice stranded on that small strip between the thorn bush and the Swift and if Ward was still alive. As he pondered over all the thoughts in his mind he continued to follow the same direction not realizing how close he was to the edge of the thorn bush. His drive came from to strong feeling he had for his companions and then a long while later he slipped passed the end of the bush and collided with a small shrub, he bounced off of it and fell backward to the dry grass under him. “I did it,” he ex-claimed gasping for air, “I made it to the edge of Thick Brush.”

The pig got to his feet and took a moment to catch his breath. He looked all about but saw nothing, it was too dark but he had an idea of his whereabouts roughly. Thick Brush had been owned by the rabbits for centuries and almost served as a barrier around the High Willow. At the point where Kezwick stood was the space


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—between the Crabby Trees which were about a mile east and the edge of Thick Brush which stretched roughly five or so miles west the direction Kezwick had ran in. The area the pig was standing in was open with dry dead grass and small shrubs scattered about which barely had any leaves on them. If Kezwick was to find the High Willow he would simply travel south but he needed help from Master Ward.

Without the lab he hoped he would be able to find a way into Thick Brush and find his old friend Pocket.

The pig’s belly growled as he stared into the darkness. He no-ticed faintly that the opposite side of the thorn bushes which went back west in the direction he came were visible. Kezwick figured the door into the bush might be down that direction so with a moaning belly he readied himself to walk back along the other side. As he began a sudden sadness overwhelmed him he stopped and stared off at the dark path ahead Kezwick then jumped as he realized a tear was falling down his face. Sorrow filled him and he turned toward the east as a deep anger toiled inside . . . . resentment.

Something was luring him east, away from Thick Brush.Master Ward was now still and silent his wounds were bleeding

badly and it would be almost impossible for Bernice to carry him anywhere for help, there was no where close for her to take him and Ward was heavy. She began to cry and rubbed her head on his back. With an angry tone she yelled out at the flying steel as it passed tell-ing it to stop and leave them in peace but it continued causing the ground to shake under them.

“Ward my love, speak to me please, tell me the funny stories you always do at the yard . . . . make me laugh the way you made Pel-ler and I laugh so long ago . . . . Peller,” she then leaned in close to Ward’s ear and whispered softly and long, “Peller.”

Ward groaned and coughed loudly and suddenly staggered up-right, he wobbled a bit and Bernice steadied him. He looked about

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with clouded vision as the left side of his body was now soaked dark red with blood. He nipped at the thorns that were still stuck but could not budge them.

“Where is lord Kezwick,” Ward asked with a weak voice, Bernice did not answer and Ward looked at her with worried eyes, “Bernice, where is he.”

“He went off in the direction we were headed to get help, I could not talk him out of it,” she answered lowering her head.

Ward looked in the direction that Kezwick had gone and licked his dry lips. Soon the sun would be coming up in the south and this worried the lab very much. Just the thought of the pig alone in the daylight terrified him. Kezwick would have no chance against the shadow weasels or a wolf from Silver Side Wood.

“We must find him. There is too much danger about,” Ward said as he started forward along side the thorn bushes.

“You are not well my love you have been bleeding badly and need healing,” Bernice cried out with despair, “you could die.”

Ward looked back at her. His eyes were dark and full of pain he then turned back to the path ahead, “I will not risk that pigs; life not when his goal was to save mine.”

Bernice stopped reasoning with Ward at that moment and fol-lowed close behind him. The night was now reaching the early stages of the morning. There was a faint glow to the south as the sun began to appear. Ward drooled as he did his best not to stagger onto the Swift and he flying steel had once again become very consistent. It moved passed like waves rumbling loudly to welcome the sun. Ward then stopped again, they had traveled a long distance and the edge of the thorn bush was not to far off.

“I am feeling faint Bernice my love,” Ward said as he pushed on, “I feel as though my legs are about to give out.”

“Rest for a moment Ward we can still find Master Kezwick in time! For goodness sake, please rest,” Bernice said coming up close


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—to him for fear he may fall.

Ward looked ahead; he pictured Peller playing about in the fields as a puppy and the way Peller would cuddle up to him at night. He wished they hadn’t fought and a tear rolled down his cheek as his sight began to fade. His son needed him, his companions needed him and the land was in danger because of what he had in his pos-session. Ward began to weep as he again fell to the ground hearing the roar of the flying steel as it passed by. Who am I kidding? He thought to himself as he stared up at the sky which was now glowing as the sun illuminated over the horizon to the south. This is where my venture ends and all went black.

A faint voice echoed in the darkness, the voice of his love, “Thank goodness,” it seemed to say, “He is dying please help,” or maybe it was just a dream.

* * * * *

Donetrun stood at the foot of the Crabby Trees and looked high up at the limbs which seemed to stretch on forever. Wee Mischief walked up beside and also looked straight up, there was a breeze but the trees did not budge. Donetrun then noticed that the sun was going to be out soon and the two of them needed rest before they could go off toward the Coldmare River.

“We eat with haste wee Mischief and then we rest for a short time,” the duck said and then carefully he stepped into the shade of the Crabby Trees. Mischief could not see Donetrun at all he only heard the ducks foot steps deep in the darkness of the trees.

“I can not see you master duck are you alright in there?” Mischief said as a gurgle came from his belly. There was an eerie silence and then to Mischief ’s relief Donetrun answered.

“There are apples all about wee dog come in and see,” the duck said from somewhere inside. Mischief took a deep breath and then

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also stepped into the darkness of the Crabby Trees.When inside Mischief looked all about but it was almost pitch

black the now fading moon gave small hints of light but it was only gleamed off of the smooth trunks of the trees. As he continued he slightly bumped a couple of smaller trees and then he came across some crab apples scattered about.

He knew this because he almost fell after stepping on a couple. He quickly bent down and sniffed one out at his paws, then took it in his mouth. A sudden sour filled his taste buds and he spat out the apple piece sending it rolling into the dark.

“They are quite awful!” the wee dog yelped into the endless trees. He could not see Donetrun but the duck answered with a mouth-ful.

“Try to with stand one then the rest come easy,” he said as hecontinued to crunch away in the dark. Mischief sniffed out another and took it up in his mouth with tears in his eyes he downed the crab apple and went on to the next. After a while Donetrun was right, Mischief had a full belly within min-utes. As the wee dog sat and licked his lips Donetrun came faintly into view. Mischief looked up and smiled, he then noticed darkness under the ducks eyes.

“My, my master duck you are tired,” the wee dog said with con-cern on his face. Donetrun looked at Mischief with a face of sad-ness, he then walked up to the dog stared at him and continued until he stopped at a tree and sat up against it, “I am no longer tired wee dog, I feel much pain and sorrow.”

The sun was now coming up in the south but under the Crabby Trees it still remained dark. Mischief stood up and made his way over to the duck.

Donetrun stared at the ground and was still, his eyes were wide open and darkness filled them. Then suddenly Mischief felt some-thing in the pit of his stomach, a feeling that grew bigger with each


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—passing moment. He looked around and saw only sorrow, only pain, only deep sadness and he took a seat beside Donetrun.

“I feel anger and sadness master duck,” Mischief said now also staring with darkness in his eyes.

“Me also wee dog, I feel as though I need not venture anymore and stay here where we are now . . . . forever,” Donetrun answered without hesitation.

“Yes,” Mischief said with a dark blank face, “Forever.”

* * * * *

Without knowing exactly what it was he was feeling Kezwick began to walk quickly toward the east, it was almost as if he now knew that Master Ward would be alright. He still feared that Ward had died but something was pulling him east, some sorrow that was breaking his heart. All the while he kept repeating to himself that Master Ward was well.

Tears ran down his face as he pushed on at an even faster pace now, even though hunger was weakening him and sleep pulled at his eyelids he moved forward. Sudden visions flashed in his mind of de-fenseless trees crashing to the ground and they moaned and screeched as the limbs snapped flying in all different directions. Leaves floated to the ground as visions of men stomped about yelling and setting fire to trees that lay all about. Large slow moving steel rumbled its way through young saplings and flower beds, animals ran with fear in their eyes as some got away while others didn’t.

The pig found himself now walking in daylight. The sun was passed the horizon and without a cloud in the sky the land around him opened up. Behind him Thick Brush loomed and around where he walked the shrubs grew big and were covered in bunches of leaves. As he continued along he noticed a small pink flower in the center of the leaves also, no time to stop and smell the flowers he thought.

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His eyes had still been releasing tears and he was getting so use to it he did not even realize that it had continued.

Kezwick wondered why he headed in this direction with haste, he had not slept a wink in the night but yet he had a sudden burst of strength. What he didn’t know was that the ability he possessed no other yard animal had, not that he knew of. The friendship he had made with the large oak so many years ago had given him the spe-cial ability; there were a number of other animals that had the gift, mostly wild animals. The silly little pig never thought anything of it, he never really needed to, but what Kezwick didn’t realize was that when you can speak with one tree you can speak with all trees.

The shrubs around him thickened and he now found that he was jogging forward with unexplained energy. Sadness drove him on and now he noticed something in the distance ahead, a large dark mass came into view that stretched for miles to the north and to the south. It was there that the sadness called him from and without a second though it was there where the pig would go.


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A Pig and the Trees

The flying steel rumbled along the Swift with unmatchablestrength asthe sun gleamed off each one that passed whenfour large rabbits edged theirway carefully along the thin

path between the thorn bush and the highway. They were making their way over to where the two labs were stranded and wanting an answer of why they would be in such a jam. Bernice yelled for help franticly as she noticed the rabbits coming closer.

“Thank goodness, he is dying please help,” she said as tears rolled down her face. Ward was motionless but his belly moved in and out to show that he was still alive.

The three rabbits were almost close enough to communicate and Bernice noticed that these were no average rabbits; they were large in size and very muscular. As they stood by the two labs the largest rabbit at the front spoke firmly, “You are yard animals are you not?”

Bernice looked at the large rabbit as her tears almost blinded her, “Yes, yes we are, please Ward is dying can you help us,” she pleaded.

The rabbits huddled together best they could trying to avoid stepping on the Swift as the flying steel passed relentlessly. They whispered to one another sometimes seeming to be arguing amongst themselves, then after a few moments which seemed like hours to Bernice the large rabbit turned toward her followed by the others.

“We will take you both into Thick Brush and let head rabbit Pine decide how to deal with this unfortunate event,” the rabbit said with a stone still face. As he turned to go back the direction they came from, the large leading rabbit ordered Bernice to walk ahead of

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—him and the other two rabbits did the deed of carrying Master Ward on their backs. Bernice walked ahead when suddenly there was a quick blow to her head and everything went black.

* * * * *

Kezwick stood at the west border of the large dark looming Crabby Trees and wiped away a few more tears from the sorrow he felt. The trees were the ones that were filling him with such emotion and he now understood why he was so sad. The bond Kezwick had with the large oak gave him the gift that he was now realizing he had, not knowing if it was a good thing or a bad thing. The feeling he got from the Crabby Trees was not near as friendly as the friend-ship he had with the large oak. The pig looked up at the limbs and then the ground around him became warm.

“Good morning,” Kezwick said bowing his head, “I am Kezwick the yard pig, also friend of the large oak.”

The Crabby Trees moaned and creaked as there limbs swayed softly. The trees asked why he was there and what it was he want-ed.

“I felt your sorrow and your pain brought me to you,” the piganswered calmly.The trees continued to moan and some made cracking noises as an-ger began to swell now.

“Maybe I could help ease your pain, what is it you need?”The trees laughed unpleasantly at the pig and told of the loath-

ing they had toward all living creatures that walked the land. What they needed would not be something a simple yard pig could get and they laughed again in a tone that seemed to hide their true feelings of hopelessness. Kezwick turned with his nose in the air and began to walk away, the trees responded by moaning even louder and there limbs lashed about almost as though a strong wind had suddenly

- 7� -

picked up.“You don’t scare me,” the pig said bravely, “The large oak told me

stories about The Beautiful Forest when I was a piglet. After my father passed away the stories made me smile and feel good inside, so don’t think your insensitive remarks will scare or upset me.”

After Kezwick had mentioned The Beautiful Forest the trees stopped lashing about and went back to a gentle sway. The pig turned back and sat looking again at the large dark trunks and weaved leaf-less limbs. The trees began to moan again. They spoke of Mother Nature casting the spell on them many years ago to grow apples year round and how it added to their burdens. They spoke of how years before when men came through and destroyed their happiness with saw and plow killing most of the wilderness in their path without remorse. They spoke about how the death of the golden sapling was the point in which they turned to sorrow thus becoming the Crabby Trees.

Kezwick listened as the trees rambled about their anger toward men and the pain being the true reasoning why they never recovered. The golden sapling had been the first tree to be born in the very spot where the Beautiful Forest flourished. It sat in the northern most part of the forest and the rest of the forest began to grow around it in a short period of time. It did not take long for it to grow south and then grow higher north. The trees said they remember the warmth the golden sapling made them feel even in the dead of winter. The sapling did not grow large, it stayed very small thus keeping the name sapling, so the larger trees of the forest swore to protect it. When the men came from the west there was not much we could do and Mother Nature did not come to our aid as a threat of dark days was upon the land. When the men reached the forest they took out the entire northern part and killed the golden sapling. After that we became filled with loathing and sorrow and are now a clear picture of what we felt. The Beautiful Forest is dead and the goodness died

A Pig and the Trees—

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—with it.

Kezwick took a deep breath and sniffed softly as the sadness still riddled him, “Is there anything in this land that can ease your pain?”

The trees moaned and groaned answering the pig with a little more respect. They spoke of a second golden sapling that would be born in due time and that it could bring about the rebirth of The Beautiful Forest. Whether it be true or a myth that was cre-ated to give hope the trees had no way of knowing and anytime an animal came within the boundaries of the Crabby Trees the anger and sorrow only consumed them so the trees could not question on knowledge of the golden sapling’s rebirth. The trees continued to tell the pig of their passed years and the animals that came every so often staggering into the Crabby Trees and not knowing of the effects it had on their emotions. The animals would feel their pain and loathing and then become rooted, rooted was what they called it due to the fact that the animals would not leave the spot they sat in. After it took hold, the trees were the only ones that could release any animal that was consumed.

“How many animals are rooted in your trees now?” Kezwick asked with concern for the trapped animals.

The trees cracked and groaned in answer, they said that not many because most animals of the wild knew it was unsafe to enter the Crabby Trees, only animals from the far east and the north are un-knowing. Then the trees mentioned something that caught the pig’s ear, they said that a duck and a small dog had entered just before the sun came up in the south and that they had both been consumed by the sorrow of the trees.

“A duck and a dog, was the dog very small?” Kezwick asked al-most certain it had to be his companions.

The trees said that the dog was small and seemed timid and the duck was large and seemed very brave, the duck took the longest for

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the sorrow to consume. The trees then asked if the pig knew the two animals that had entered in the early morning.

“I have the feeling that they are two of my friends who were separated from us a while back and we haven’t seen them since,” the pig explained.

The trees went quiet for a moment and then swayed and moaned again. The duck and dog were to stay in the Crabby Trees unless the pig made them a promise.

“They are my good friends and I will do what I can to help you if it means them being released,” Kezwick said now worried of what the trees may ask for.

The trees answered the pig saying that myth told of the rebirth that took place in the deepest and darkest spot of the Black Root Forest in the south. Black Root was the largest forest in the en-tire land, it stretched for miles and miles in all directions and if it was only a myth could mean that the golden sapling really was not there. It would take more then a life time for a pig of Kezwick’s size to search even half of Black Root Forest. The trees said that if his friends were released he had to promise to bring the golden sapling to them. The trees could only thrive on promises. Without thinking to hard about it, the pig nodded and agreed. His friends were too important to say no, and not even Mother Nature could get them out of this one.

“I can not tell you when time will present itself as I have other matters to tend to, but I will do my best afterwards to bring the golden sapling to you and restore the Beautiful Forest,” Kezwick said in conclusion.

The trees agreed and would wait for his return on the word he would. The trees went still and the ground around the pig became cold once again. Kezwick took a deep breath and lowered his head closing his eyes. There was a sudden sound of movement amongst the trees, he looked up and out of the darkness stumbled Donetrun


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—and wee Mischief. They looked up at the pig squinting as the sun burst though the broken clouds.

“Kezzy,” Mischief said with a long smile.The pig smiled back and they all came together embracing each

other in a group. Donetrun asked what had happened to them on the Swift and Kezwick explained it all in detail up to the point of where they stood. He did not tell them of the Crabby Trees and all that had been said, Donetrun and Mischief thought that they had just had a deep sleep and by pure luck the pig had come across them.

“What do you think has become of Master Ward,” Mischief asked with a slight shiver of doubt.

“I do not know but I fear that I have failed in trying to find him help,” Kezwick said now realizing that Ward may not have survived, “if he has not survived then I imagine that Bernice is still stranded on the path between the thorn bush and the Swift.”

“Then that is where we will go,” Donetrun said readying himself, “this does not end now, not while the well being of the land is at stake and Bernice needs our help.”

The three of them agreed and were off toward the Swift and the thorn bushes without a second thought.

* * * * *

The eyes of Bernice opened and her surroundings were blurred. For a moment she did not know what had recently happened like waking out of a dream when you can not remember it. She was lying on a bed of dry grass and wood chips; they were stuck all throughout her hair. She then sat up and lowered her head, it throbbed with pain and she tried to remember why. Then with her eyes closed it began to come back, the Swift, the wolf, the thorn bushes, Ward bleeding badly, the pig running off for help and then she gasped

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opening her eyes . . . . where was Ward?She looked around at her surroundings and realized she was in a

small enclosed room that was lit by a small torch on the wall. There was no door that she could see and her bed was the only other thing in the room other then her and the burning torch. She got up as her head pounded, wandering the room she still found no opening and then panic began to consume her.

The walls were made of thick bush vines that were covered in thorns, the vines were so tightly woven that no eye could see through them. Bernice on the verge of yelling out heard something on the other side of the thick vine walls, footsteps, but not normal footsteps these were the sound of small steps followed by much larger steps and they were coming closer.

Bernice slowly moved away from the wall and sat softly on her dry grass and wood chip bed. The vines then suddenly spread open like curtains and two large rabbits entered the room, she had seen these rabbits before. Neither of the large rabbits spoke and Bernice was afraid to say anything. They both stared at her for a moment and then stood off to the sides of the opening. Silence filled the air for a moment and then a smaller rabbit entered the room. His eyes were bright green and his hair was silver grey, atop his head was a small plaid hat and he wore a tiny cloak around his midsection that was the same colour plaid as the hat. He sniffed the air as he moved about the room and then turned to face Bernice eye to eye.

“Only speak when need be,” the rabbit said in a raspy voice, “An-swering questions will be your only words for now.”

Bernice stayed silent and hoped that he would bring up Ward in his questioning.

“You and your friend are from the yard are you not?”Bernice cleared her throat as her head continued to pound, “Yes,

is he . . . . ” the rabbit quickly cut her off.“Only when answering my dear, only speak when answering your


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—chance to ask questions will come in due time,” he said proudly.

“What were you both doing to get in such a dangerous posi-tion?”

Bernice made sure she was careful on how she answered this question, in her mind she figured that Ward would not want her to speak to strangers about why they were venturing and where, “We were on our way to see an old friend that is all, when we crossed the Swift we did not realize that our path was so constricted and Ward cut himself on the thorns of the bushes that were on the other side.”

The rabbit paced about the room and took a deep breath, “This is no place for yard animals to venture, who is this friend you speak of?”

Bernice gazed into the bright green eyes of the rabbit as he turned to look at her, “Mezamir the Wise,” she said softly.

The silver grey rabbit paused and stared at Bernice even the oth-er two large rabbits now looked at her then after a few moments the questioning rabbit spoke, “Mezamir the Wise Owl . . . . you are a friend of his?”

“Yes,” Bernice whispered in response.The rabbit slowly hopped over to the opening and turned back

to Bernice, “I am Head Rabbit Pine, leader of the rabbits of Thick Brush, to my left is Passy and to my right is Pitmine. You say you are a friend of Mezamir the Wise then you are a friend of ours but I must first find out if what you say is true,” Pine motioned for the other two to step out of the room and they did quickly, he then stood alone at the opening and finished what he had to say, “You will re-main in Thick Brush until all is clear, feel free to walk the halls for no rabbits will harm you and you need not ask your question for I know what you will ask . . . . your answer waits for you at the end of the hall to the left,” then Pine was gone.

Bernice sat still for a moment and wished she could have asked

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why her head was in so much pain but then the overwhelming urge to find Ward caused the pain to subside. Without another thought she was stepping through the opening and turned left down the hall. The halls were also made of the vines covered in thorns but they seemed even thicker. Every so often she passed by a torch that lit up the hall and it softly crackled. Far at the end of the hall she saw an opening to a room that was faintly lit and she found her pace had quickened. A few moments later she was at the opening and she took a deep breath and entered. It was a room the same as the one she had been in with a torch on the wall and a dry grass and wood chip bed but upon the bed lay a glorious sight. Ward was fast asleep on the bed and his wounds were tended to. Bernice cried for a mo-ment and then snuggled in beside him.


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Weighing the Solution

KEZWICK, Donetrun and Mischief passed by the shrubson their way back toward Thick Brush they all had the same thought pulsing through their minds, if Ward and

Bernice were alright. They were not far from the thorn bush now as it loomed ahead in the bright sunlight, not a single cloud was in the sky and the sun was at high noon. They pushed on and were only a few paces away from the bushes when Kezwick stopped and sat try-ing to catch his breath.

“What is it master pig,” Donetrun asked with concern.“I have not eaten in a long while my hunger is causing me to

weaken,” Kezwick answered with his head low. “Rest awhile Kezzy and I will go back to the Crabby Trees and

get you some apples,” wee Mischief said as he turned back.“No,” the pig said, “I’ll be alright for a little while longer I sup-

pose.” Donetrun and Mischief helped Kezwick up and they continued.

Donetrun was in the led as they began to make their way toward the path along the Swift. The flying steel was rumbling in the distance and the three of them shivered at the thought of it, flashes of gleam-ing sunlight bounced off the steel as it flew by, Mischief stopped and stared off toward it.

“I do not know if I can bear to walk so close to the flying steel again,” he said with a worried look.

“Quiet!” Donetrun snapped in a harsh whisper, he looked all about them as Kezwick and Mischief sat still, “Something is coming

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—toward us from the east.”

“What is it master duck?” Mischief asked in a soft voice.Donetrun took to the air and flew a little ways east circling the

sky. He then flew further until the others could not see him. They sat silent, neither wanted to say a word as fear began to overwhelm them. Then a moment later the duck swooped down out of no where yelling out; “Run both of you!!! Two Wolves of Silver Side are near!!!” and the duck then turned back in the direction the wolves were coming from.

Both Kezwick and Mischief were off running as fast as they could. They feared to look back as they stumbled onward breathing heavily in terror. The dry grass crunched as they stomped hard with each step and the only thing ahead of them now was Thick Brush.

“Where do we go now??” yelled Mischief who was only a few paces ahead of the pig.

“I don’t know they’ll sniff us out regardless of where we go!!”Kezwick yelled back. The two of them were barreling toward the bush. The same thought pulsed through their heads as the thorns came closer and close . . . . they were going to barge directly through the bushes, it was the only way. They both began to scream out loudly and at the foot of the bush they lunged. At that moment the bush had spread open like a magic door and the two of them stumbled and fell head over heels landing on top of one another in a twisted pile. When they came to a stop they both still had their eyes shut and a small cloud of dust surrounded them. When they opened their eyes they saw that they were in a dim torch lit hall. They untangled them-selves from each other and got up with a sight stagger.

“Are we dead?” wee Mischief asked with utter confusion.“Not quite,” a voice behind them answered, the two of them

jumped and turned around to see who it was.A large rabbit with towering ears stood before them, his teeth

- 8� -

were white as ivory and his hind legs were thick as fence posts. He sat but was much taller than both the pig and the dog. The long whiskers at the end of his nose twitched and his eyes were shiny and grey.

“Goodness me,” Kezwick gasped. “Pocket my friend!”The large rabbit named Pocket was the biggest of all the rabbits

of Thick Brush and a good friend of Kezwick’s. He smiled at the pig and hopped into the light of the torch making the true size of him clear. Mischief marveled at the sight of the rabbit for he had not seen Pocket since he was much smaller.

“You have grown Pocket,” the wee dog said.“Wild carrots and lettuce will make any animal strong,” he an-

swered.“You must be wondering why we are here and why we were

madly running toward your bushes,” Kezwick explained with a slight bit of shame.

“You need not explain yourselves young friend, we were expect-ing you,” Pocket answered quickly, “please follow me.”

Pocket turned and headed off down the hall beyond the torch light. Kezwick and Mischief paused for a moment and then the pig got up to follow, Mischief reached out to stop him, “What about Donetrun?”

Kezwick stared at the wee dog seeing the concern in his eyes for his new friend and then smiled, “Wolves can not fly wee dog and Donetrun knows our destination so you need not worry.”

Mischief thought for a moment and then spoke, “I suppose you’re right he will be quite alright high above in the sky.”

“And here we will be safe for now, only I wonder how they knew of our coming?” Kezwick said looking down the hall.

“I guess we will find out,” Mischief answered and at that the two of them went off down the hall in the direction Pocket had gone. Outside three wolves of Silver Side sniffed along the edge of Thick

Weighing the Solution—

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—Brush unable to find where the scent had continued.

* * * * *

Ward opened his eyes and looked all around at his surround-ings. He then realized that Bernice was snuggled up beside him fast asleep. His left side was sore and there were bandages wrapped around him. Ward then remembered what had happened and he was happy to know that he was alive, he also wondered where it was that he and Bernice were sleeping so peacefully, and also who had dressed his wounds. He stirred and then winced as his side pulsed with pain, he bumped Bernice lightly she moved softly and then opened her eyes.

“Hello my darling,” Ward said with a smile. Bernice jumped up onto all fours as if she had jumped out of a

bad dream and then began to cover him with kisses. Ward laughed and slightly held her back, “Careful now my love I’m still not yet healed fully.”

“Oh Ward my love you are awake and well!!” Bernice said loudly with tears and a smile.

Ward got up awkwardly and walked around the room slowly; he stopped and turned to Bernice. Suddenly he did a quick lap around the room and laughed out loud as he leaped high into the air.

“You be careful Ward, you are recovering from quite an ordeal,” Bernice said with a wide relieved smile. They embraced each other and then Ward’s questions began.

He wondered where they were and what had happened after he had black out. Bernice explained about crossing the Swift and his wounds and how the rabbits of Thick Brush had come along and took them in.

“I had also blacked out myself for some strange reason when the rabbits had found us,” she added realizing her head still felt a little

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funny. “I will have to meet and thank whoever helped us,” Ward said

and then he paused slightly staring off at the wall, “And what of Kezwick?”

Bernice did not answer and walked up to Ward’s side, sorrow covered her face and she lowered her head, “Before you blacked out you tried to go after him but your wounds bled to much and you col-lapsed, we never did find out where Kezwick went.”

“Then that will be my first task, I will not leave without knowing of Kezwick’s well being,” Ward said with distress.

“Maybe he made it to the High Willow we could go there and speak with Mezamir the Wise,” Bernice said sounding of false hope.

At that moment the far wall of the room spread wide open and Head Rabbit Pine stood between Passy and Pitmine. Ward stared at the great rabbits with the utmost respect.

“You’re awake, Master Ward of the yard, and I see you are both quite aware of all that is happening now,” Pine said nodding his head, his green eyes flashed of wisdom as he brought his head back up.

Ward bowed his head to Pine and then spoke, “I am in your debt Head Rabbit of Thick Brush and I thank you for all your help.”

Pine entered as the other two guarded the entrance, “You must accept my apologies for the bump on Bernice’s head, we must keep Thick Brush secure from prying eyes, you understand. We also needed to keep you both in the closed in rooms until we were sure of your venture. It is not that we did not trust her word we are only looking out for our safety.”

“I understand Pine and except your apology,” Ward answered bowing once more.

Pine then continued, “Passy is the fastest rabbit in Thick Brush, he moves with such speed that no animal in the land could catch


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—him and after Bernice told us of your intentions we sent him to the High Willow to speak with the wise owl. The owl said that he does know you and knew that the day would come when you would ven-ture to the willow seeking his counsel so he expects you as soon as you are well enough to travel.”

“It is good to know that he expects us I was not sure of how he was going to react to us arriving,” Ward said wanting to add some-thing else as he went silent.

Pine knew he had something else on his mind and he eyed the mighty lab with his green eyes, “You are thinking of something else you want to add to your meetings with the wise owl.”

Ward swallowed and held back his emotion, “I must find a small companion of my who has endangered himself to help me many times and I would never be able to forgive myself if I do not find him,” he said strongly.

Pine nodded his head at the other two rabbits and they stepped away from the entrance. He then looked at the lab with prying eyes and smiled after a moment; “You are full of secrets Master Ward of the yard but the wise owl says not to burden you with questions. Your loyalty to your friend is strong and it gives a look of honesty, so I will ask you to join us in the dining hall for food and then you will be on your way.”

“You are a respectful leader Pine and we will eat at your table with honour,” Ward said and at that the rabbits led both Ward and Bernice down the torch lit halls.

The dining hall was higher up than the main halls were and it was located in the heart of Thick Brush. A long oak table sat in the center of the hall and large amounts of wild carrots and lettuce were arranged all about the top of it. Pine led Ward and Bernice to a spot at the table and another rabbit brought them bowls of fresh spring water. Ward eyed the food and licked his hungry lips his wounds had seemed to be healing well as the pain was now subsiding.

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Pine sat at the head of the table and his green eyes glowed as a beam of sunlight snuck through a hole in the vines high above, “Bring out the other guests.”

Ward and Bernice looked around as they thought that they were the only animals to be within the walls of Thick Brush other than the rabbits. Ward felt a pulse of utter joy as a small pig and dog came out from another hall and paused at the entrance admiring the size and beauty of the dining hall until there eyes met. Ward and Bernice stumbled around the table toward them and with relief and happiness the four of them embraced one another. Laughter broke out as they talked loudly and the rabbits watched in silence, Pine smiled.

“Master Ward, I was afraid that I would never see you again,”Kezwick said with tears in his eyes.

“And I of you, oh my goodness I am so pleased that you are well . . . . both of you,” Ward said back smiling form ear to ear, “I am sure there is so much to tell.”

“Kezwick must eat,” Mischief interrupted, “He has not eaten for a long time.”

“Of course,” Ward answered stepping to the side, “Please go ahead.”

The pig and wee Mischief stepped past and Pocket walked out from the hall close behind. Bernice followed and then Ward paused and looked down the now empty hall.

“Where is Donetrun, is he not here also?” Ward said with con-cern looking back to his companions.

Kezwick’s eyes were glazy as he stared at Ward, Mischief con-tinued to the table followed by Bernice and Pocket. The pig walked over to Ward and spoke in a low voice.

“He’s high above.........he’ll be fine until we reach him at the High Willow,” Kezwick said with a smile of hope. Ward smiled back and the two of them joined the rest at the table.


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—They all ate heartily and drank lots of spring water. Laughter

roared all around the table as Head Rabbit Pine told funny stories of the past. Ward joined in telling tall tales of the yard and it warmed the hearts of the yard animals to think of home, Pocket told his sto-ries of fun and games that he remembered growing up and venturing to the yard quite often. The food was finished, the spring water was dry and the tales were growing shorter, some of the rabbits were now yawning, day was again turning to night.

Pine stood tall on his hind legs taking off his hat, “I must give respect from Thick Brush to our friends of the yard. You are always welcome here!!” all the rabbits cheered and then slowly started leav-ing the table.

Pine made his way around to the yard animals. Placing his plaid hat back atop his head, Pocket stood beside him towering. All the yard animals got up from the table and thanked Pine with bows of respect.

“You are all welcome at Thick Brush when ever you feel the need,” Pine said again with grace, “But now sleep calls so you may all stay in one of the free rooms if you please and in the morning if you are feeling well enough Pocket will show you the best way to the High Willow.”

Pocket nodded and was then gone down one of the many halls that split off of the dining hall. Pine then led the others back down the hall where Bernice and Ward had come from. The torches still crackled with their soft glow and gave off soothing warmth. The four of them entered a room and the opening slid shut without a sound. Bernice and Mischief fell asleep almost as soon as their heads hit the soft dry grass, Ward settled down but remained awake as Kezwick went over and sat with him. The pig was tired but with all the recent happenings he seemed over tired now and unable to sleep.

“Your thinking about Peller, aren’t you.” the pig said in a whis-per.

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Ward looked up at Kezwick and his eyes gleamed in the light from the torch, “Always master pig but, among all other things Pel-ler is my main concern.”

Kezwick paused for a moment and then changed the subject, “Back at the yard you told of the war and the reasons of the stone and what not, through out your words you spoke of my father......did you know him well?”

“Not as well as others but I did know him,” Ward answered with a yawn.

Kezwick paused for a moment and then continued, “I never got to know father well I was so young when he passed away. Mother said he was smart and brave she also said he was too kind.......she said he did not belong in that war.”

“Your father was a close friend of Marvel the Warthog and Mar-vel was a close friend of Mezamir the Wise. When Mother Nature came to Mezamir on the eve of war asking him to lead, he called on Marvel the Warthog to be by his side and Marvel asked Gezwick the pig to come along and he did. Your father was a good animal full of respect and loyalty, so you should always think highly of your father,” Ward explained as his eyes became heavy.

“I wish I was as great as my father,” Kezwick mumbled to him-self.

Ward’s head came up quickly his eyes staring at the little pig, “You are great Master Kezwick you have shown more courage then any yard animal has in a long while, don’t ever doubt your great-ness!”

Kezwick smiled a bit and then lowered his head as sleep started to consume him. Ward looked about and then lowered his head also, “If anyone has been a bad father it has been me......I sent Peller away by trying to control his every move.”

Kezwick snored loudly now. His face was covered in a large smile his legs slightly kicked as though he was walking about hap-


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—pily in a dream. In the morning the band would speak with the wise owl and at that point Ward already knew that he would not see the yard again until his son was by his side.

* * * * *

Donetrun of East Pond flew high above. He had lost sight of Kezwick and Mischief a long while back and was beginning to tire so he turned south and flew low. He knew that sooner or later he would come across the High Willow. He felt a sense of sadness but the duck’s sense of hope was stronger, it always was. As he contin-ued south there was a cool wind gusting and he could smell rain in the air.

After a while when Donetrun felt he could fly no more he thought it was safe enough to land. There had not been a scent from the wolves of Silver Side in a while and below the land was flat with short weed riddled grass. Between Thick Brush and the High Wil-low was a long gap of just that, short grass that was covered by wild clovers and crab patches. This slab of ground was normally watched closely by the rabbits and the wise owl. This was the void between their homes but today was different as the rain clouds moved in and a sudden thick fog covered the bare land. As Donetrun landed he realized that his direction was unknown. The duck stood in one spot for a moment looking in all directions.

“Blast this fog . . . . which way was south,” he complained to himself.

At that moment there was an ear bursting howl that screeched through the moist air and caused the duck to jump in fright. He re-mained where he stood and stuck his bill into the air searching for a scent but it was no use, the fog was too thick. It covered any scent in his range; Donetrun could not even hear the wind due to its thick-ness. Suddenly another howl stretched across the land and it seemed

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much closer. With energy the duck didn’t have, he took to the air as fast as he could. It proved quite difficult as the fog dampened his wings. Below him shadows of wolves appeared where he had just been standing and a couple looked up with shiny eyes catching a glimpse of what they had just missed.

Donetrun flapped harder trying to get above the fog it was long in length but also very high and if he did not get above the dense moist air he would plunge back down to the ground where the wolves wandered about. A weakness filled the duck as he flapped harder and harder. At the moment he was about to give up he emerged up out of the fog. He gasped for air as he eased up on the strength of his flapping. He felt small taps of water on his head and back.

“Oh no,” he said as he flew further south, it was beginning to rain and his wings were already heavy with water. Far below, a third howl echoed into the moist air above as Donetrun looked franticly in hopes of seeing the tip of the High Willow above the fog.


- 9� -

The Gathering of the Band

THE rains came hard as night began to fall. Donetrun flewhard but he was not gaining much distance. The fogwas now starting to brake up as the rain poured down and

the ducks wings were now too heavy. He flew low and noticed that the wolves were nowhere in sight, they must have went off to find cover from the heavy rain. Donetrun landed and gave himself a shake as the rain water sprayed off his feathers in all directions.

“South,” he whispered looking all around him but it was all just open fields and the moon did not give enough light to see far, he then closed his eyes and tried to hear past the sound of the rain he tried to hear the wind.

His feathers were soaked and mated so he was unable to fly, even if the wolves of Silver Side had come out of the dark he would not be able to take to the sky. It was hard to determine what the wind was saying as the hard rain fell but on the other hand it seemed to be keeping the wolves away.

“What do I do now?” the duck said to himself, he thought of rest-ing under the rain in the very spot he was in but fear of the wolves kept him from doing so. He had not rested since he and Mischief had slept at the Crabby Trees and he was tired enough now that not even the rain could keep him from drifting off. Fear was what kept him standing and without even a second thought he closed his eyes, spun in a circle, stopped, opened his eyes and walked that direction.

As the duck marched forward the rain began to lighten up. He

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—shook his head sending water droplets all about. Time passed as he walked on in the direction that his turn had sent him and after another while the rain turned to a drizzle. Further ahead there was a different sound, it sounded as though the rain was splashing to the ground almost as though it was draining off of something quiet large. Donetrun moved with caution, even more than he had been. The though of the wolves still being out there in the dark kept him moving but ahead of him was something very large and not knowing what it was scared him.

The rain had now stopped and the moon was clear in the night sky, he had only caught glimpses of it before when the large storm clouds began to break apart. The large face of the full moon gave a little more light and now Donetrun could see something large loom-ing ahead, very, very large. The sound of the draining water hitting the ground was even louder now and it thumped and splashed wher-ever it was landing. He began to walk onward toward the sound all the time wondering if he had went in the wrong direction. Louder and louder the sound got. Bigger and bigger the large mass became until Donetrun could feel the water splashing up at him from where it hit the ground straight ahead. He stopped for a moment and looked up at the large dark object stretched high out of the reach of his sight and his wings were too wet to try flying above it. When he was close enough, the width of it covered the sky and he could no longer see the moon or stars that sat around it.

“Goodness me . . . . this could only be one thing,” the duck said still looking up as the rain water splashed all around him, “I have reached the High Willow I believe.”

He took a few more steps forward putting his wings out in front of him. He waited to touch the object, moving toward it as though he were blind. Then he touched it and his inclination was right. The feeling of the thick ruff bark, bark that could not be broken, bark that could not be cracked, it was the bark of the High Willow and

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the home of the wise owl.

* * * * *

Ward and the others awoke to the soft sound of the wall sliding open. They all looked up to see Pocket enter the room. He set a large vine woven platter on the floor and Passy came in second with a large wooden bowl of spring water. The platter was full of wild carrots and lettuce.

“Morning has come so all of you please eat and drink. After you have had your fill I will lead you directly to the wise owl,” Pocket said and then was gone.

The four of them ate every morsel of food and drank the entire bowl of spring water. Ward was back to his full strength and he pulled the bandages away from his side with his teeth. It looked as though he had never been hurt only small scars remained and the others looked on with amazement.

“The juices that flow through the vines of Thick Brush heal fast,” a voice said startling them all. Pine was at the entrance and a smile was on his face, “Pocket is ready to take you to the willow so please follow me.”

Then, one at a time they left the room and followed Pine down the hall, behind them was Pitmine not speaking a single word. Once again they stood in the dining hall and Pine turned to them, “This is one of our secret exits from the bush, it is at the inside corner of where the bushes turn and go to the south thus creating the border around the willow protecting it from the west. You had been in the upper half that travels east protecting the land from The Great Swift. Pocket will take you south along the thorn bushes and then at a certain point you will turn east which will take you directly to the willow. I wish you all good tidings and hope to see you all again down the road.”

The Gathering of the Band—

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—They all exchanged bows and words of thanks. Then they were

off. Pocket lead them through a large opening that went out into the open field between Thick Brush and the High Willow. The grass was wet as they all realized that it must have rained quite heavily through the night which it had. They all looked out into the open field and squinted; they had not seen the sun in quite awhile.

“Please, follow me,” Pocket said simply as he began to travel south. They followed quickly one after the other as Bernice brought up the rear.

The walk was long and wet. It had reminded Kezwick of the walk to East Pond; it seemed so long ago he thought to himself. No one spoke as they continued onward they all were thinking thoughts of their own. Kezwick thought how nice it would be to eat the food the farmer left again, wee Mischief thought how nice it would be to take it, and Ward thought of Peller but in the end that is what he and his companions were always thinking about. The grass was be-ginning to dry now as the sun shone bright in the noon sky. Ahead of them, Pocket quietly sang songs of his elders; Kezwick heard bits and pieces and thought it sounded wonderful.

“I don’t remember you singing those songs when you came to visit the yard,” the pig said as he now walked beside the large rab-bit.

Pocket looked down at Kezwick and then back ahead, “They are songs my father sang when I was young I guess you could say they are personal.”

“Well you can continue singing them lord Pocket I won’t burden you with questions,” Kezwick said stepping back.

“Oh it’s quite alright little Kezwick, I don’t mind,” Pocket said motioning for the pig to walk beside him again. Kezwick stepped up swiftly and smiled as the rabbit began to sing.

As the group pushed on south they did not speak they only lis-tened as the rabbit sang songs. Some of the songs were of happy

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times and others of sorrow, the sun crept slowly and played hide and go seek among the clouds.

At one point Pocket stopped. The others noticed that Thick Brush had become thin and the vines were frail looking even the thorns at this point were scattered about the ground and none seemed to be on the bush. Pocket searched about carefully sniffing the ground and listening to their surroundings with his tall wide ears.

“It seems something has uprooted some of the bush, possibly trying to enter Thick Brush,” Pocket said still sniffing about.

“Why Thick Brush,” Ward asked wondering if the rabbit even knew the answer.

Pocket brought his head up but did not look back at the others, he only looked to the tattered bushes in front of him, “The stench of Silver Side Wood is in the air, can you not smell it?”

Ward walked up to the side of Pocket and looked down at him, “If you need to go back feel free. It seems that we have only brought you trouble and I do not wish that, not after all you done for us.”

Pocket looked all around himself, the tattered bush, the road they traveled and east to the road ahead. He then began to make his way toward the High Willow. Without a word the others followed.

* * * * *

The sun was now out and the last of the rain drops fell from the limbs of the willow. Donetrun had fallen asleep under the large tree and had not even realized it until he had woke up. The last drop fell and landed plunk on his bill he got to his feet and had a big stretch. The duck looked up and found that his lucky pick through the night had been the right pick. Towering high above him was the home of Mezamir the Wise Owl and the greatest tree in all the land. The High Willow had grown alone for centuries in a field that had nothing but weeds and patchy crab grass. The tree had then


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—become stricken with loneliness and for two hundred years its limbs hung so low they almost touch the ground below. The tree grew no buds nordropped the small white flowers to the grass in the fall only long thin stringy branches hung limply in the breeze. The trunk was thicker then the belly of a full grown bear but if it was touched it was as cold as snow in the midst of winters rage. The only thing the willow had left to do was wither and die.

Then many years later a young warm hearted owl in search of a home came along. Mezamir the Young swooped down out of the dawn and landed on one of the high branches near the top of the willow. The young owl was now on his own and preparing to reach the next level of his training. Mezamir the Young was soon to be-come Mezamir the Wise only he needed to find a safe place that would welcome his mystic ways, next to Mother Nature, owls were the only other creatures that knew magic. Mezamir felt the cold spread through his body as he sat on the branch and it caused him to shiver. He quickly cast a spell that would warm up the limb and that would then warm him up also. A feeling passed through the willow that day, something it had never felt, friendship.

As Mezamir the Young sat on his warm branch wonder-ing where to fly to next, the limbs of the tree began to move. The owl became scared and prepared to fly off but the willow’s sudden warmth filled Mezamir with a feeling of friendship and protection. The limbs grew small white flowers that smelled of spring and they grew thick around the young owl, Mezamir gasped and bent for-ward to smell them. The smell filled him with a sense of trust and comfort . . . . the owl had found his home. At the front of the large tree was a hole that was dark and deep. Over time Mezamir with the permission of the willow made himself a home inside with different rooms and winding staircases that led high into the heart of the tree and also all the way down into the earth among the roots.

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Mezamir would go down there if he felt fearful. Their friendship grew into the strongest friendship of the land and had remained that way as Mezamir grew older. Soon he became the Wise and was known as the wisest creature in all the land, through thick and thin and even through the war Mezamir and the High Willow’s bond would never be broken.

Donetrun leaned up against the willow wondering what it was he should do now. He wished the others were there so that they could all go to the wise owl as a group but as the duck looked in different directions all he saw was open fields. Donetrun had decided at that point that he would try to enter the High Willow. As a duckling he heard many stories from the elder ducks that the old fool owl set traps for any intruders and would tie them up with roots deep under the ground where they would stay for eternity.

“Old fool’s telling fool’s tales,” the duck said to himself with a laugh of courage.

Donetrun spread his wings and gave them a shake. They were still a slight bit damp but he would be able to get off the ground. He prepared to leap when suddenly something came down and plunked on the top of his head, he wrestled with it for a moment thinking it was one of the traps that the elders warned about but he then realized that it was a loose ladder made with strong willow limbs. It hung in front of his face and swayed gently back and forth. The duck was stunned and looked up high trying to see where the ladder had came from but it was too far up to see. Then out of nowhere, a voice came, “Ladders are for climbing young duck.”

Donetrun pondered for a moment and then started up the loose ladder. It was difficult as it swung about causing the duck to loose his footing every so often. After quite a few more steps Donet-run looked down and saw that he was up very high up. He never thought a tree could be so tall until he experienced the height of the High Willow. Up close all his imagery proved true concerning it.


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—“Not far now,” the voice said, it seemed even closer now. Done-

trun continued and it was coming clear now that there was a large opening in which the ladder had dropped from. Moments later the duck had reached the wide hole in the tree, his assumption was right. When he looked in, it seemed pitch black inside but there was a dim light that flickered off in the darkness. Somewhere a large door that was made with old thick tree branches tied side by side by green vines sat wide open seeming to give the impression to enter freely, Donetrun stepped in slowly and strained his sight trying to catch a glimpse of anything off in the dark.

“Please pull up the ladder,” the voice said suddenly again, causing the duck to jump. He reached back in hopes that this was not a trap, he pulled the ladder up and set it off to the side of the entrance and then Donetrun cleared his throat, “Pardon my trespassing but I am here . . . . ” his speech was cut off suddenly.

“You are a companion of Master Ward from the yard are you not,” the voice said as it echoed all around the duck.

“Yes . . . . yes I am, only I fear Ward has possibly died,” Done-trun answered back with a shaky voice.

Suddenly Donetrun noticed off in the dark there were two round bright golden objects floating in the air every so often they would vanish and then reappear in a flash, “Died?” the voice laughed with a deep grunt and trailed off, “Ward has not died my dear duck he is alive and well, healed by the rabbits of Thick Brush I’ll have you know.”

Donetrun paused for a moment to think, he remembered how close they had been to Thick Brush and how it was possible that the rabbits found him. He also remembered that before Kezwick and wee Mischief vanished they were running toward the bush. Maybe they were all safe at Thick Brush in the care of the mighty rabbits, maybe they where on their way to the High Willow at this very mo-ment.

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“How do you know this is true?” Donetrun asked after the end of his train of thought.

“Passy came to the tree I love the other day asking about the band of Ward and their intention to meet with me, Head Rabbit Pine had sent him to only find out if what they had said was true. I informed them that the yard animals were friends of my so I suspect that your friends will arrive shortly,” the voice said as the two bright gold circles flashed in the dark, the voice then continued, “Do you know of the reason that they come to speak with me? I do have my suspicions.”

“I wish not to discuss it until the others arrive.......all of them,”Donetrun answered more bravely now as the circles flashed and

now seemed closer.“Fair enough young duck, but I hope that he did not bring it

here or none will enter,” the voice said as the gold circles vanished completely, “Wait there for your friends and I’ll speak to you then.”

The voice trailed off and then only darkness remained. Donetrun could only hear his breath and the distant sound of nature outside the hole. He would sit and wait in hopes they did not bring it with them and the duck had a pretty good idea of what the bright gold circles had meant for the look in them showed a fear of a returning ghost.

* * * * *

Pocket led them east toward the High Willow at a quick pace. None of them tired after all the rest and food that they had enjoyed at Thick Brush. Far off ahead the band of companions notices a large dark mass. The field was wide and open and the only thing other than the mass ahead that met the field was the sky, they all seemed to wonder how anything could survive out here. Barren land further then the eye could see and this strange mass sits dormant


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—ahead without comfort of other living things, alone.

“The High Willow lays ahead my friends,” Pocket said withoutlooking back.

All the others then realized that the mass ahead was the tree Pocket spoke of and it was becoming clear to them now as the long drooping limbs were more visible. From where they stood it almost looked like an enormous weed sitting and frowning upon the land waiting to be plucked and thrown away.

After a longer while they came within paces of the tree, they allstopped and stared at it. It stretched high into the sky above them and the long limbs blew softly in the cooling breeze. Pocket made his way over to the trunk and turned so that his hind legs faced the tree, he then proceeded to thump the trunk four times with swift kicks. He then calmly made his way back over to the others. A moment passed, then another, soon an answer echoed strongly back down to them, “Did Master Ward bring it?”

All the animals looked at one another in wonder as the voice sounded thunderous and wise.

“Please lord lab you may answer,” Pocket said looking back at Ward.

Ward stepped up a little closer looking back at the others he then cleared his throat and answered, “If you speak of what I think you are speaking of then my answer is no,” he answered strongly.

There was a moment of silence, Pocket stood tall on his hind legs as Kezwick, Mischief and Bernice stood side by side. Then again the loud voice spoke, “I do not feel the presence of it and I trust you would not lie to me Master Ward . . . . my door is open and welcomes you.”

A vine ladder fell downward from high above and swayed back and forth for a moment, then sat still. Ward was first to climb and did without any trouble as he made his way up, Pocket and Mischief were next. The wee one struggled slightly but the rabbit gave him

- 10� -

some help. Bernice brought up the rear and she bumped Kezwick up every once in awhile and before the sun dropped past the highest point in the sky they were all standing at the pitch black hole peer-ing in.

“If only I could imagine your visit was not of ill intentions,” a voice said off in the dark, “This is quite the band that you have brought together Ward.”

“Many brave souls save one.......we are only a small but coura-geous band and times are becoming worse,” Ward said lowering his head, the pain was growing more and more as he could not see his son, hold his son, tell his son he was sorry.

Two golden shiny circles appeared off in the dark and flashed at them, “It is a gathering . . . . for all our sakes,” the voice said as a sudden light filled the corridor. Before them stood a tall thick feathered owl the two shiny circles that had been flashing at them in the dark were the golden coloured eyes of the old wise one. His feet were large and bore long sharp claws. When he stepped forward the wood corridor creaked as the claws dug into the floor. His face was round and wide, a small beak sat in the center and the feathers to the outside of his head were grey. Most of the feathers on his body were grey as the owl was becoming old and he walked with a limp which he had never had as a young owl. He stopped eyeing the band of animals as he held a lantern with his left wing. He then turned away from them to head off deep into the tree.

“You have come for my advice only Ward.” the owl said as he began down the corridor, “I am too old to venture away from the willow.”

“I am not here to ask for your service, only for your wisdom,” Ward answered with respect in his voice.

“Come along all of you quickly......I only hope that none of your followers come knocking on the trunk of my tree,” the old owl said as he was far enough down the corridor that his lanterns light was


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—now dim.

Ward began to follow Mezamir the Wise down the corridor and the others followed one after the other. A few moments later they came to a large twisted staircase that went up high inside the tree and down deep into

the earth below were the roots dwelled. Mezamir blew out his lantern with a quick puff as he no longer needed it, all around them on the walls lanterns shone with flames that burned brightly. There were old pictures scattered about on the walls covered in dust, pic-tures of owls with golden eyes. The faces of the owls had a look of wisdom and experience, Mezamir began to make his way up the staircase leading high inside the tree.

“Those are past generations of the most powerful owls in the land they are all long since passed but with these pictures their spir-its remain,” the wise owl explained.

They all walked up the steps keeping up with Mezamir; none felt any fear, only a sense of security filled them. Ward climbed behind the owl with Bernice, Kezwick and Mischief close behind him, Pocket brought up the rear. After a seemingly short climb they entered a large round room with a low ceiling, it also had a wood bed covered in grass and twigs. Along the wall to the left was a table with little stools and sitting quietly on one of the stools was a smiling duck by the name of Donetrun. The others laughed and ran over. They all embraced the duck with smiles and pats on the back, Mezamir sat and watched as he took out an old pipe and filled it with field grasses, he also smiled.

The group of friends talked loudly of what they had experienced in the last while with gasps and laughter. Pulling out the stools, a couple of them sat to rest a while, but Ward had no interest in resting . . . . it was time to discuss the matters that lay ahead.

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The Wise Owl’s Advice

THE group of companions finished up their talk as Wardhad already been speaking with Mezamir in private.The lab walked over to the others followed by the owl as

the smoke from his pipe filled the room creating a looming cloud above their heads. Silence fell for a moment as they all stood and sat in somewhat of a circle. Mezamir sat at one of the stools and crossed his legs he took a few big puffs on his pipe and then brought it down.

“After the war the land was full of happiness all the animals were able to go about their lives without the worry of evil. Over time, the enemies of the east, mainly the wolves of Silver Side Wood and the weasels of the Black Dens, wanted to free their leader Dark Sky the Wolf. Dark Sky has the ability to create havoc with his over power-ing personality and the masses were easily persuaded by his presence. When Mother Nature’s army won the war she took Dark Sky to the Mushroom Fields and trapped him inside the Black Stone. That is where his soul will remain unless the stone is broken. The east will not bring war without the leadership of Dark Sky which means that war is not upon us but they will not rest until they free their leader.”

They all listened intently as the wise owl continued.“It is unfortunate that the secret information concerning the

stone was over heard by a fool like Basil. The slip up of Ward’s son resulted in the taking of Peller. One thing I know for sure is that the weasels are smarter than the wolves, and in knowing that, them be-

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—ing the ones holding Peller gives hope that he is still alive. They know that if Peller dies, Ward will never let them see the stone but if Peller is still alive as their prisoner they know that Ward will try to save his son, and he may even be willing to give up the stone in return.” Mezamir then turned to Ward as his golden eyes glimmered, “It has crossed your mind Master Ward, giving the stone to the east but if you did it would be the end of all this land and beyond. We do not have the army to fight a war of that size again . . . . no . . . . there is only one way to save your son Ward, you must travel to the far east to the Black Dens and take back Peller without letting the stone fall into evil hands . . . . this is the only way,” the owl concluded as he took a long drag of his pipe.

“Then that will be the way it will be done wise owl,” Ward saidbravely, “I will go alone if I must.”

Mezamir got up from his chair as he held his pipe in his beak. He paced about while smoke followed him around like a ghost as he walked, “No, no Master Ward, you must bring together a band that will go with you on your journey with all different elements to help with all different dangers . . . . the band of Ward.”

“I am not scared of the east and will stand strong beside MasterWard!!!!” Mischief said suddenly out loud causing a couple of the others to jump.

“What will he need that you can give wee Mischief?” Mezamir asked as he put more dry grass into his pipe.

“I am brave and willing to go to any measure to help,” Mischief said pondering on finishing what he was to say, “I have spent my whole life at the yard and now that Ward has brought me so far away with reason, I figure that it is my destiny to go.”

Mezamir laughed and continued to pace the room. The pipe smelled strong after he had refilled it, “I must say that there is no need wee dog but if you believe that it is your destiny then so be it.”Ward mumbled in the background as he wandered out of the room.

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Mezamir excused himself and followed the lab down the corri-dor that led to the stairs. A moment later Bernice followed and the rest of the others sat around speechless. Kezwick then walked over to Mischief with a disgruntled look, “What are you trying to do, this is not a game Mischief.”

“I do not think of it as a game, I do want to help and I think that I will come in handy,” Mischief said and before Kezwick could answer Pocket spoke up quickly.

“Maybe we should join Ward, this growing threat endangers us all,” the rabbit said looking over his shoulder at them.

“I told Ward that with fear and worry friends stay together to do what must be done,” Donetrun added, “Without a doubt I will be one to go along.”

Kezwick was quiet and went to sit at one of the stools, fear was deep within but the courage of the others made his blood boil. He thought to himself of the way his father must have felt so long ago. He wished he could have known his father. The pig did not give an answer as the others all toiled in their thoughts.

* * * * *

Ward stood by the twisted staircase and closed his eyes, “Meza-mir is right,” the voice in his head said. He then opened his eyes and looked back to see Mezamir and Bernice standing not to far off in the corridor. He walked over to both of them and apologized. His mind was so far away that even friends offering their service he looked ill upon. “I suppose going alone

would be silly,” he said looking mainly at Bernice, “But the thought of endangering others is why I would rather go alone.”

“I’m going with you!!!” Bernice said quick and loud before the owl spoke.

“You both speak in private for I have my final decision to make.

The Wise Owl’s Advice—

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—As you well know Ward, she left the decision to me,” said Mezamir as he turned and went back toward the room.

Bernice looked into Ward’s eyes and she knew what he was about to say, “Ward I know that you do not what me to come along but I do not think I like the idea of not knowing if and when you will return.”

“The others may come if they choose but I am bringing you back to the yard, it is safer there,” Ward said with a lump in his throat.

“Safe? What about Peller, how is it safe?”“The yard will be safe, the horse lords will not allow any danger

to come to it now even if they deny it they would protect it in the end,” Ward said feeling confused, “I just do not like the idea of harm coming to you.”

“Ward I . . . . ” Bernice said softly as Ward cut in.“And I you, I promised you that I would return and I will with

Peller and the others close at my sides,” Ward finished as they em-braced each other tightly.

When the two of them entered the room a moment later the others all looked on in silence, Mezamir was off in the corner puff-ing away on his pipe. Donetrun and Pocket informed Ward that they were coming along and the lab accepted with a smile, he even told Mischief that he would be honoured to have the wee dog come. Kezwick still remained quiet. He had a bad feeling about the whole premise and he looked down at the floor trying to clear his mind.

As the others spoke, the owl went over to Kezwick to speak with him for a moment, “You wish not to go young pig,” he said bending down to see the pigs face, Kezwick got the strong smoke of the pipe in his face and it made his eyes water.

“What can I do,” Kezwick answered with a tone of sorrow.Mezamir leaned back as the others all spoke of better times, his

eyes gleamed as he crossed his legs, “I recall your father being much smaller than you, and he stood at the front along side Marvel and

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I.”Kezwick looked up at the owl with a big grin, a sudden light of

hope shone in his eyes, “Master Ward told me of my father and how he fought in the war.”

“A very brave pig indeed he was and a good friend,” the owl said looking off at nothing, “If only I knew where he went I would gladly send you there.”

A puzzled looked clouded Kezwick’s face. He stared at the owl as Mezamir continued to look blankly at the wall. Smoke surround-ed his feathery head and his eyes glowed behind the gray cloud.

“I was told that he died,” the pig said after a moment of silence.“No, no he did not die then but I do not know of his where-

abouts. He has been gone for quite some time,” the owl finished as he began to walk away from Kezwick.

“But I do not understand!!” Kezwick yelped out causing the oth-er companions to look over at him.

Mezamir turned to the pig and blew out a long cloud of smoke that circled about and then vanished, “In due time young pig, for time is the true judge, do not burden your-self when other matters are at hand.”

Ward and the rest of the group joined Mezamir and Kezwick. The lab announced of the quest to the east and that he was first going to return Bernice to the yard but before he could finish his speech the wise owl spoke up.

“The stone lie’s safely at the yard does it not,” he said in a loud tone.

“Of course,” Ward answered plainly.“Time grows short, and the venture must begin, but only after

certain deeds are fulfilled,” the owl said looking directly at Kezwick, “One must return with Bernice to the yard and check that all is safe, you know what I am meaning. The safety of the stone and the yard itself and the fact is true, the east will not bring masses to the yard to


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—fight they may only try to enter in secret, but even that is unlikely as the horse lords and others are keeping a close watch. The stone must remain in it’s spot that only Ward knows of in hopes that every other animal weather it be yard or wild will not know the whereabouts of,” before anyone could ask Mezamir gave the answer, “Young Kezwick will venture back with Bernice, I have my reasoning.”

Everyone gasped lightly and looked in shock at one another. Kezwick kept his head low as for some strange reason he was ex-pecting that he would be the one. The wise owl then gave reason for choosing such a dangerous journey for the pig, “Marvel the Warthog is the final piece to the band, do not let his age fool you he is still the strongest animal of the west and he also knows his way around the far east quite well. The band will never fully succeed without Marvel.”

Ward stepped in quick with an unhappy look, “Marvel cares not for anything but his own self pity he will not agree to help and if he did he would be a burden due to his lack of respect.”

“Maybe so Ward but like I had said, the band needs Marvel’s strength,” the owl turned to Kezwick and brought down his pipe as the smoke seeped out from his beak, “I know it will be difficult to persuade the warthog but our young pig will be the only one that could over any other.

They all stared at Kezwick some with worry and others with hope. Ward glared at the pig with one eye over his shoulder blade, the only sound was Mezamir quietly blowing pipe smoke out when the pig answered, “I will return with Bernice to the yard, check that the stone is safe and speak with lord Marvel,” he finished while look-ing to the smooth wood floor.

“When tomorrows’ sun rises in the south Bernice and Kezwick will head secretly east to the Coldmare, travel north along the bank until they reach the Coldmare Bridge. Under the bridge is a thin ledge that you can cross to pass the Swift without having to cross

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into the flying steel. When you’re across, you only need to make your way back to your home where the young pig will carry out what was discussed. The band of Ward will leave to the south east to The Fall. This is a water fall of enormous strength and when you come to the point in the river where it bends this point is named Water Tip. It will be quite impossible for any of you to cross the Coldmare by swimming. The river is very strong especially at this time of the season and would carry any of you away like a dead leaf. Under The Fall there is a secret passage that travels behind the water, it will take you across the river and also make it difficult to be noticed. After you are all across the river you are on your own, so it would be wise to think of a place for you to meet up with Kezwick and the warthog . . . . assuming he comes along that is,” the owl finished catching his breath.

Sleep was taking a few of the animals as their eyes drooped and a couple times the odd one would jump up as their dreams were only just beginning for the night.

“Sleep calls as the day has passed so quickly, I do not have extra beds I am afraid but the floor of the willow is much better then out in the cool damp night air,” the wise owl said as Mischief was already sprawled out on the floor, “Sleep well my friends as a big day dawns tomorrow. As for me, I have some night life to tend to.” At that, the owl was gone.

All the animals snored away which was surprising with the ele-ment of fear the owl had seemed to be compiling. Only Kezwick, Bernice and Ward remained awake. The idea of the morning divide was on their minds heavily already. After a little while, Bernice was curled up beside Ward fast asleep

and again it was the pig and lab still awake. Ward smiled at Kez-wick with a heart warming grin and the pig smiled back the best he could. The pig was thinking about what he had to do but in the back of his mind he also wondered what the owl had meant about his fa-


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—ther. Then Ward with a quiet voice interrupted his train of thought, “I fear the thought of my Bernice and yourself venturing north to the yard alone, but on the other hand it seems like a good plan seeing as the shadows and wolves are mostly seeking me out.”

“If we stick to the passage that Mezamir gave us I’m sure we will all be fine.” Kezwick answered with a yawn.

“I remember the day father brought out the stone,” Ward began as a sudden dim light filled the room, Mezamir had lit a lamp on the wall on his way out, “He was very sick and the sad thing was that he was not that old. He told me of the past and how the stone was very dangerous to speak of. I thought of it as a gift in the beginning and hid it in the straw that I slept on every night but over time I began to see flashes of strange light deep within it so I put it somewhere secret where it has been ever since.”

Kezwick with sleepy eyes looked at the lab as the light of the lamp glimmered around them, “I will need to know where it is Ward, to check that it’s still there.”

Ward nodded and then continued, “The back stall of the old barn where the cows sleep there is a long feeding trough made of steel. At the furthest end there is a rust spot in the shape of a circle, the floor underneath is made up with old wood planks and covered in straw. The closest plank to the far wall is loose. Lift it and under some dead leaves lies the black stone,” Ward then laid down on the floor putting his head between his front paws.

The pig sat for a moment with his eyes half open and then mum-bled, “Checking that the stone is safe is not the part of this little venturing that burdens me, I am more concerned of persuading the warthog.”

Ward let out a snort of a laugh as the pig also laughed slightly the others stirred and Pocket let out a loud snore for a quick mo-ment. They both laughed again but a little less noisily. The lamp light gave the room a cozy feel as the two fell asleep in the last safe

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place it seemed they would sleep in for the next while.

* * * * *

Kezwick slept soundly as he fell deep into a dream, he roamed the yard but it was to dark to notice if any of the other yard animals were about. The air was moist and there were noises off in the dis-tance that he could not quite make out. A thick mist covered the ground and it made it so that the pig could not see what it was he walked upon but the ground was wet to the touch. It seemed that the air was hard to breathe when an overpowering smell of trees came. Kezwick looked around seeing only tall dark trees now, thick black spruce trees that did not budge in the dead still night. Then a noise of movement became clear, something was coming toward the pig from somewhere amongst the spruce trees. He looked all about as a fear began to consume his soul it was the sound of something he knew all to well, something he loved to watch in the early morning at the yard . . . . the sound of horse hooves. This did not sound like the Horse Lords of the yard. They moved all together almost seem-ing to create their own thunder, this was the sound of one, moving closer and as each hoof fell it echoed through the dense air.

He thought that he may turn and run. It was not the colt that raced them across the fields toward the east and it was not the elders because they only moved as a group. The pig then turned to run but the trees were too thick and he had nowhere to go. He searched franticly for a way out. The clip clop sound came up behind him and he stopped and held his breath. Turning slowly he kept his eyes shut. He felt the breath of the beast on his face and then he opened his eyes. Before him stood a large white horse with a long blonde mane, its eyes were shimmering blue and its tail was long but just short of the ground. It stood over the pig as Kezwick cringed back-ward in fear. Then he noticed something else and wondered how


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—he had missed it in the first place, a large ivory white horn came out of the horses forehead and it glimmered brightly causing the pig to stare in awe . . . . it was a unicorn.

* * * * *

“Kezwick . . . . ” a voice said plainly causing him to jump out of his deep sleep, “wake up young pig a new day dawns and your path awaits.”

Kezwick awoke to see the others all just coming to after a peace-ful sleep. He yawned and stood up, which was followed by a long hard stretch. The smell of herbs filled the air of the room and they all noticed that the wise owl was pouring a liquid into small wooden bowls at the table.

“Please my friends have some special thorn bush tea it will give you plenty of strength to start your day,” Mezamir said taking a seat and they all joined without question.

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Tea before the Break Up

NOT only did the juice that dripped from the vines of Thick Brush help heal quickly but it created a sweet tasting tea that gave enough strength to walk double the length

that a bowl of spring water would. The steam that rose up from the tea gave a mouth watering scent and the companions all crowded the table to get a taste. Not much was said about what was to come next; they all were quiet as they slurped down the tea. Mezamir grew tired with lack of sleep what the band did not know was that the wise owl had been out the entire night scouting out the land ahead. To the north, he saw no trouble but to the east, large packs of wolves were forming and moving about swiftly. The shadow weasels were nowhere to be found but there was no doubt in the back of his mind that they were somewhere close by.

Ward looked at the owl eyes which were only half open, Meza-mir had lit his pipe a moment ago and long strings of gray smoke rose from it, “You need sleep wise owl,” Ward said as he licked the bottom of his bowl dry.

The owl looked at the lab with droopy eye lids, “Sleep will take me soon Master lab but I must see all of you off.”

After the tea was finished Mezamir left the room and then re-turned moments later with an old burlap sack. He set it on the floor and then called Ward over to him the others watched with puzzled looks. The wise owl opened the sack and fumbled around inside it until he pulled out two different objects, one was small dark flask and the other was a little burlap bag knotted at the top.

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—“The flask contains juice from the vines of Thick Brush, as you

know, it helps heal wounds quickly. I hope you will not have to use it for that reason but you all know the dangers ahead. It can also be blended with spring water and then drank to give extra strength if food is hard to come by. Do not drink it on its own you will not sleep for days if you do. The little bag contains fire dust; it is a con-coction of my own magic. If the dust is sprinkled upon wood it will burn until the wood is no more. It will even work in rain, wind and snow. This will keep you warm on the nights that will soon become cold, just be careful and smart how you use it,” the owl explained, he then slipped the two objects into a leather pouch and tied it around the neck of Ward where they hung securely.

Ward thanked the wise owl and joined the others. They all sat side by side as Ward and Bernice sat close followed by Kezwick and wee Mischief with Donetrun and Pocket not far off. The break up was about to take place . . . . Ward then discussed a possible meet-ing place with Kezwick for when he and the warthog began their journey east, it was difficult to pin point an exact location so the lab and pig decided on the High Over Flat just above the Greens and below the Swift.

* * * * *

The owl wished luck to all and promised that he would help by flying over the yard at night keeping an eye out for danger. Not many animals could avoid the eye of the wise owl at night, the only ones that could possibly was the shadows. They all made a quick exit from the willow and stood together at the base of the tree speechless. Pocket stood high on his hind legs staring off toward Thick Brush sniffing the air.

“If you must return home lord Pocket we will understand,” Ward said as the others looked on.

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Pocket was still for a moment not looking at any of them, “I do not worry about returning home I only worry about home,” he turned to them with a fake smile, “but I know in my heart that they all will be safe for it is not them they are after, Head Rabbit Pine will under-stand my decision to go with the band.”

The rabbit joined Ward as the lab gave him a pat on the back. Mischief and Donetrun stood side by side ready to go as Ward went over to Kezwick and Bernice who were sitting against the trunk of the willow. “It’s a beautiful day for an adventure,” he said to the two of them.

“Indeed it is,” the pig answered simply, “Indeed it is.”The sun was bright with streams of snow white clouds streaking

the sky the breeze blew softly from the north and gave a smell of the cool season which was only around the corner. The companions all said their good-byes and some tears were shed. Ward held Bernice tightly for a moment and wee Mischief ran over to Kezwick embrac-ing the pig with a big hug, the others laughed, for laughs were soon to become scarce. The break up took place under the High Willow well before noon as Kezwick the pig and Bernice headed east toward the Coldmare Rivers bank. Ward and the other three started toward The Fall of the river which crossed to Water Tip.

Ward watched until Kezwick and Bernice were out of sight he then turned to the others hiding his emotion, “They will be fine I am sure,” he said trying to reassure himself.

“Master Kezwick is quite smart. I do not imagine that he will lead them into danger and Bernice is almost as strong as you,” said Donetrun with a voice of confidence, “Thinking about them will cloud your mind Ward, you must concentrate on the task at hand.”

“You’re right Donetrun my friend, I will lead as we make our way south east to The Fall,” Ward said as he began forward, the oth-ers followed in single file. After a while the field that was covered in low dry grass started to become thick with clovers and dandy

Tea before the Break Up—

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—lions. The weeds were high enough that they rubbed on the belly of Ward. Wee Mischief could only see if he walked on the tips of his toes every so often his head would bob down and back up again. Pocket lagged back a bit sniffing the air and listening with his long large ears. The weeds became higher and soon only Ward was able to see over them. Ward then asked that Donetrun take to the sky and scout ahead, he did so without question and the weeds swayed as his powerful wings gave a strong gust.

“Master Ward, you know that I would never burden you with problems but I no longer am able to see what lies ahead due to these atrocious weeds,” Mischief said suddenly from somewhere behind the lab.

Ward started to make his way back looking about until he al-most stepped on the wee dog, “Get on my back Mischief and it is only until the weeds diminish.”

Mischief climbed up on the large lab’s back and steadied himself. Ward continued on through the long dandy lions, they had grown as tall as the lab and the tops were covered with fluffy seeds that waited for one little bump to let go and float away. Pocket followed in the footsteps of Ward and looked back every so often. The rabbit was very big but even on his hind

legs he could not see over the dandy lions, he paused and circled the ground sniffing but it turned out that the strange smell was in the air.

“Something is close by lord lab, I smell something far off and my ears are picking up movement,” Pocket said with his back to them once again, “by the sound it seems quite small.”

Mischief looked down at Ward from high atop his back and did not see fear, Ward then turned to continue while answering the rab-bit, and “Odman is most likely close by and wants to see her.”

“By her you mean Mother Nature do you not?” Mischief said still looking at Ward on a weird angle.

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“Yes, and I also believe that he is worried about the well being of Peller,” Ward answered as he trudged onward through the tall weeds, “he’s no threat.”

“I beg to differ lord lab. That smell will attract wolves more than any other. If this Odman continues to follow us we might as well walk into Silver Side Wood wearing bells,” Pocket said with a look of frustration.

“Then let us move toward The Fall with haste,” Ward retorted as he walked faster causing Mischief to teeter slightly.

Pocket looked back trying to catch a glimpse of the animal thatfollowed them but all he could see was the tall dandy lions that sur rounded them. He turned and continued to follow Ward toward the waterfall. As time passed they could hear the sound of running wa-ter and they knew that The Fall was not far off. Donetrun had sud-denly come down out of nowhere landing a few steps behind Ward.

“All seems clear up the Coldmare,” the duck said trying to catch his breath, “we are not far from it now.”

Pocket was a little ways back singing songs of Thick Brush in a low voice as the sound of the running water was becoming louder. Mischief noticed that the weeds were thinning slightly and he was now an open target for any birds of prey. The High Lands were not far off and were densely populated by hawks and falcons. The wee dog asked to be let down and Ward agreed quickly, his back begin-ning to feel the strain anyhow. Within a few more paces the tall dandy lions had vanished and only wild clover remained, Ward and the others could see the mist that filled the air a little ways ahead as The Fall roared loudly.

“How will we ever find the secret passage Master Ward and if we fail to find it we will not be able to cross,” Mischief said standing close to the lab’s side. Ward paid no attention to the gibberish that came from the wee dog’s mouth he just looked careful ahead to see if there was any movement. Between them and the passage behind the


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—water lay a strip of land that was bare, it did not even have a blade of grass and it was wide open to searching eyes.

“Donetrun, did you come this far when you scouted ahead?” Ward asked still scanning the land with a strained eye.

“Only to the edge of the dandy lions,” the duck answered, “I had also scouted further to the north for any packs of wolves that is why I seemed to be a little longer.”

Pocket stepped passed them and stood high on his hind legs, his ears stood tall moving all about, “I hear birds of prey.........they are not far.”

The four of them quickly stepped back into the tall dandy lions and all crouched down low. Pocket had been right, and just in time too for a large hawk flew high above and circled repeatedly. They remained crouched without a word. The hawk circled a couple more times and then flew back toward the north, most likely to the High Lands. Pocket perked up his ears again and then hopped out of the tall weeds.

“It is clear for now,” the rabbit said looking back at them.“Let’s continue to the waterfall then shall we,” Ward said get-

ting up to go, Mischief and Donetrun followed with a little more confidence.

Not a word was said until they came up to The Fall. They all stood side by side staring up at how far the water fell from. The drop must have been thirty feet or more and the band watched with won-der as the Coldmare plunged downward crashing to the lower case of the river. The land on either side of the Coldmare sloped steeply and at the base of the slope were huge rocks that were covered in a thick moss. At the point where the waterfall hit the lower case there were also tall upright rocks that jutted up out of the rough waters and they glistened as water slashed the tops of them. The air was full of a fine mist that the waterfall created and it sparkled around them like tiny diamonds floating in the air. The Fall stretched across

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the Coldmare in length from one end to the other for roughly two miles dropping shorter at some points and then even higher at oth-ers. Small whirl pools circled all about at the base of the fall while the foam swirled around in the centers of them. It was a sight to see although if any were to enter the waters of The Fall they would surely never come out.

Ward stepped ahead of the others closer to the waterfall as splashes of water jumped out at him. The sound produced by the fall was overwhelming and if anyone were to speak, Ward would most likely not hear. He scanned along the back being very careful not to come to close to the wild waters, eyeing the rocks and the fall itself the lab could not find any secret passages leading behind the waterfall, “I see nothing yet!!” he yelled failing to look back he then slowly turned, “I said I . . . . ” a shock surged throughWard’s body at what he saw.

Mischief was nowhere to be found, Pocket had been yelling to Ward but the sound of the fall drowned out his voice. Donetrun was high in the air battling the hawk that had returned. Feathers floated all about as Ward ran up to the side of Pocket, they watched helplessly as the birds fought. Donetrun looked to be tiring and the hawk was also twice his size.

“Where’s wee Mischief!!” Ward yelled trying to think of some-thing to do to help Donetrun.

“As you walked up to The Fall the hawk came in silent from be-hind us trying to snatch up the wee one but he managed to run back to the tall weeds and hide . . . . Donetrun came to his aid,” Pocket answered feeling helpless.

The duck then went limp in the air and fell hard to the ground below. The battle had been won and now the large hawk was coming down for his prize. His eyes were full of rage and blood dripped from his talons. Without a second thought Pocket and Ward charged to-ward where their there fallen companion lay. The hawk bore down


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—on the motionless duck.

“The duck is mine,” hissed the hawk as Ward stood by the side of Donetrun, Pocket circled around where the hawk had landed. It adjusted its wings folding them in and then nibbled at an itch, “You have no right stepping in the way of my prey, he is mine fair and square.”

“You are proud of yourself evil hawk,” Ward said with anger in his eyes.

“It is the way of the food chain silly dog, animals such as yourself do not understand the way of the wild,” the hawk said with a laugh, “Fed by man, how disgusting is that. Move aside man’s animal, or you will be an extra treat for my hatchlings.”

Ward did not budge, he only readied himself crouching very low baring his sharp teeth, “Find your food somewhere else as I can en-sure you that your beak is no match for my jaws.”

The hawk smiled and edged toward the lab, his feathers ruffled outward making the hawk look twice the size it was. It’s eyes were still full of rage but it did not diminish the strength Ward felt, “Come bird, come and get your prey.”

Pocket was close behind the hawk as it would glance back at him every so often. As the hawk got closer to Ward and the fallen duck, a sudden stench filled the air. A moment later Mischief came charging out of the tall weeds a little ways back yelling, “All of you, run toward the fall!!”

In the confusion Ward picked up Donetrun quickly and care-fully, he then stumbled toward the fall. Mischief ran passed them all avoiding the hawk as best he could. Pocket ran in the falls direction also but clipped the back of the hawk’s legs on the way causing him to fall. He got back to his feet and started toward them laughing as they all stood along the rocky bank of The Fall. They had nowhere to go which meant easy pickings for the large strong hawk, “First the duck then the wee one,” it hissed.

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“Back to the High Lands with you,” a voice said from some-where behind the big bird. He turned to see a small animal that had his back end high in the air pointed directly at him, “This is no place for a hawk to hunt!” said Odman as he released a cloud of stench. The hawk screamed loudly as his eyes watered heavily, it coughed and gasped for air. Staggering about, it fell and rolled about on the dirt yelling and cursing the tiny skunk. It then got to its feet and spread its wings flapping crazily. It took to the sky flying in all dif-ferent directions until it flew off coughing and choking out of sight.

The skunk took a deep breath with a wide smile and breathed out with a sigh. The others had their noses covered in hopes that the smell would vanish soon. The skunk looked at them sheepishly and then slowly walked over, “I found the wee dog hiding in the weeds shivering in fear, I just happened to be passing by.”

Ward laughed as he eyed up the skunk that lied so terribly, “I thank you for your help Odman but you have been following me since I left the hill it is not hard to know when you are about.”

Odman went quiet kicking at the dirt he then looked up at Ward, “You are going to see her are you not?”

Ward set Donetrun down on the ground as the waterfall roared behind them, the duck was still alive but in rough shape. Ward concluded in a loud voice that they would find shelter and tend to Donetrun immediately.


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Rain, Mud and Feathers

THE land seemed to rise slightly as Bernice kept glancingback to see if she could catch a final glimpse of her lovebut they were out of sight now. Kezwick was a few steps

ahead of her looking all about and listening for the sound of the Coldmare. The river was about two and a half miles away so it was a good thing that the wise owl had given them the tea, they both felt a deep strength that was hard to explain. Bernice caught up to the pig and the two of them walked side by side for the next long while.

Soon the sound of running water was present it was very faint which meant they still had quite a ways to go. They had not said much up to this point of their travels back to the yard, “I worry about Ward, I worry deeply and hope that he will be alright,” Bernice said breaking the silence. Kezwick looked up at her with a soft smile.

“They are fine I’m sure,” the pig said as he turned back to looking ahead, “The band of Ward is very strong in all aspects.”

Bernice agreed with what the pig had said in conclusion and they pushed on toward the Coldmare. The day was dragging on and large dark clouds were making their way up from the south, “Looks like rain,” said Kezwick as every so often he glanced up at the sky.

The clouds loomed high and black. A cool wind picked up caus-ing the two of them to shiver. Soon the clouds blocked out the sun and darkness covered the land, the tall grasses that stood scattered about were swaying back and forth as the wind had picked up. Kez-wick’s ears flopped about with each gust and Bernice had sheltered her eyes as they began to water, “Maybe we should try to find cover

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—master pig, it seems that more than just rain is coming,” Bernice said raising the tone of her voice. The wind and the distant roar of the Coldmare were drowning out all other sound.

“If we can make it to the bank there may be large cat-tails that we can hide amongst,” the pig answered trying to keep his balance. They agreed and braced themselves against the wind. Lightning flashed across the sky causing Bernice to jump. The two of them laughed and then continued, thunder rumbled loudly and the rain came fast and hard. It pelted their backs as they tried to shield their faces from it. The rain fell, the lightning flashed and the thunder roared as they came within a few paces of the Coldmare River. The waters splashed high and heavy, the wind tossed it all about and the rain pelted violently upon the surface. The river thrashed against the bank spraying them with water. Kezwick had been right about cat-tails being along the edge of the river. He remembered seeing some to the far north but hiding amongst them would prove almost impossible, the waters of the raging river had flooded the cat-tails and all that remained were the tall grasses behind them.

“Oh my goodness what are we to do now?” Bernice said as rain water dripped from her soaked face.

“Maybe we should just start to make our way north up the Cold-mare, there is no shelter so it won’t make any difference,” Kezwick answered trying to talk over the rivers roar.

Bernice agreed and they started north along the flooded bank. The rain would not give up and their pace became slow. It was tak-ing twice the strength to walk against the gusting winds and steady-ing their steps on the drenched ground. Along with the gusting wind and pelting rain came large cat-tails hurtling through the air, they came within inches of the two animals and every so often one would collide with them. The lightning became more persistent and the thunder cracked and boomed louder and louder. It was now almost impossible to move and communication was limited as even

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their yelling was unheard.Kezwick stood still swaying in the storm, he looked all around

and then back to Bernice. He noticed a distant sound that he thought he may have heard earlier and thought nothing of it . . . . a howl-ing was coming from the north. Bernice made her way up beside the pig and got as close to his ear as she could, “What is it Kezwick?” she yelled.

Kezwick stared north but the heavy rain made it like looking through pea soup. Kezwick could not speak loud enough over the storm so he then motioned for them to go into the flooded cat-tails. Bernice shook her head wondering why he would want to rest where the water would most likely be up to the pig’s neck. Kezwick was persistent and finally Bernice agreed, so they quickly stepped into the flood. The waters were deep and the pig suddenly found himself wading up to his neck, sometimes the water would even come up around his face. Bernice yelled for him to latch on to her tail but it was difficult, he held tight while the lab tried to brace herself as the flood water crashed at her legs, “We must get out of the cat-tails Kezwick, the water is going to carry us away!!!” Bernice yelled as she grinded her teeth straining to keep steady.

Suddenly, a sound pierced her soaked ears. Franticly she looked all around seeing nothing but cat-tails and flood water. There was a sound that was clear just under the storm and the river water. She listened carefully as Keswick hung on to her tail tight. A loud howl stretched across the wind every few moments and some were much louder then others. Her legs shook as she tried not to breathe but it was hard to stay still while a storm, flood water and a clinging pig were trying to drag her down river. The wind blew the cat-tails in different directions every once and a while she could catch a glimpse of what was wandering the wet grasses beyond the cat-tails. Large black wolves were moving in a pack toward the south. There must have been twenty or more, it was hard for Bernice to count with

Rain, Mud and Feathers—

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—the situation she was in. Her eyes darted back and forth as she breathed short breaths of fear. Kezwick tried to see what was going on but the flood water kept riding up in his face, “Keep still master pig . . . . please keep still,” Bernice whispered to no one but her-self.

The wolves dripped with rain water as they moved swiftly close to one another. Their eyes flashed in the rain and lightning. Their huge jaws hung open exposing razor sharp teeth. Bernice closed her eyes and prepared to tumble into the river if they were to be discov-ered by the wolves. The pack stopped as one of the wolves yelled out. Bernice opened her eyes and saw glimpses of them. They were all sniffing about as if they had suddenly come across a scent that they did not recognize. Many of them were distracted by the flashes of lightning overhead and the thunder would cause them to jump. Some of the voices came clearer they were vial and dark.

“What is it?” one of the deep voices said.“I smell something but it’s hard to tell with this storm, the scents

are faded,” the other raspy voice answered.Bernice watched as the wolves debated about the scent. Strain

filled her face and her legs began to feel numb as the cold waters of the Coldmare ran heavily around them. Just as she was about to let go, the wolves were off heading south again. Howls filled the air and the last of the pack slipped passed. She glanced back and saw that Kezwick had lost his grip and was holding on to a cat-tail which was about to break. She lunged toward the pig almost losing her footing, she then bit gently down on the scruff of his neck as she did with Peller when he was a pup and pulled him up out of the flood water. With the pig dangling from her mouth she struggled up and out of the flood waters onto the soaked wet grasses where the wolf pack had just been standing moments ago. She collapsed to the ground releasing her grip on Kezwick. They both lay there exhausted as the rain continued to fall heavily.

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Kezwick got up on all fours cursing the storm. He then turned to Bernice who was lying still, “Bernice, are you alright my dear?” the pig asked loudly as the sky above them flashed and rumbled.

Bernice slowly opened her eyes seeing Kezwick looking down at her, he looked dark with the storm overhead and she jumped slightly at the thought of the wolf pack, “Kezwick . . . . I almost lost you,” she said calming herself.

“I would have been lost for sure if not for you Bernice, thank you,” the pig said slowly helping her up.

“The wolves . . . . they are gone,” she said giving herself a shake, “There were so many of them. Silver Side must be sending out packs now, I hope the others are across the Coldmare safely.”

“I do too. It is so dark because of this endless storm and I fear the sun will set soon,” Kezwick said looking up at the still black clouds, “we should move as quickly as we can up river, maybe the rain will let up and we can find a cozier spot to rest.”

Bernice agreed and the two of them continued up the bank as the flood waters continued to flow. Darkness was beginning to fall as the sun was going down in the north. Soon they would be mov-ing in pitch blackness following the sound of the Coldmare in hopes that they would reach the Coldmare Bridge soon.

* * * * *

Further up the bank the flood waters lessened and the number of cat-tails doubled. The rain was still coming down but there were patches of stars in the sky meaning that the clouds were breaking up. Kezwick every so often glanced up to see if he could see the moon. The only thing that the two soaked animals could see now was that night had come; it was so dark that they barely could see the many cat-tails all about and the soggy ground they walked on. The Coldmare to their right splashed and flowed loudly as the storm


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—continued to stir the water and made a great guide moving them towards the bridge.

“Will this rain never end?” Bernice said loudly looking to the clouds, “I’m too tired to carry on Kezwick maybe we should rest a while.”

“You’re right my dear Bernice, it sounds as though the flood wa-ters are no longer flowing at an enormous rate. We could try to find a decent spot to rest for a while,” Kezwick answered yelling back.

They made there way as far into the cat-tails as they could with-out coming too close to the raging river. Some spots were sheltered with the width of the cat-tails tops and rain water dripped less heav-ily. Bernice sat as she gave her head a shake spraying water all about, Kezwick just gave her a look and she laughed happily . . . . it was hard to laugh now, for all of them.

The pig curled up beside the soaked lab and to two of them were off to dreamland before even a good-night was exchanged. Bernice dreamed of Ward and the rest of the band being chased by packs of black wolves from Silver Side. She tossed and turned kicking her legs, every once in a while she would clip Kezwick causing him to stir slightly. Bernice would not escape the nightmares that burdened her that night, not until her eyes saw the real world again and the warmth of the sun.

Kezwick was in a deep sleep. Lately the pig had been sleeping quite well, even when a storm rolls on for such a long while and rainwater drips upon your head. In his dream the rain had stopped and the moon was bright. He looks around realizing that Bernice is missing, he tries to yell out to her but he cannot speak. The pig then realizes that all around him is darkness but there is a faint sound off in the distance. He wants to call out but again his voice fails him, fear sets in and he prepares to run but does not have a clue in which direction he should go. The sound is coming closer and Kezwick turns to run but his legs are weak and he feels that he will fall. The

- 1�1 -

sound of hooves comes clear and the pig peers into the darkness, deep breathing fills the air around him and Kezwick closes his eyes afraid to open them again. A hot burst of air sweeps over his face and he begins to tremble, his eyes open to see a familiar sight. A tall magnificent unicorn stands towering as its horn flashes in the black surrounding. Kezwick wants to ask were it has come from and what it wants but still no words are able to exit his mouth he just stares mesmerized by the ivory horn that glistens in the dark.

The unicorn looks around for a moment and then turns, it looks back at the pig and motions for him to follow. Kezwick acts sur-prised and then without thinking attempts to proceed. As he tries to step forward he continually feels as though drops of water are pelting all over his face he shakes his head weakly and then looks up to see the unicorn is gone. He looks about frantically for he did not get the opportunity to follow it and see what it was the beautiful creature had wanted. He tried to step forward again but is unable still . . . . the dark surrounds him and he is left to dwell in his own thoughts. It came clear again that a tap, tap, tap of water was landing on his face. He could not bare it any longer and he tried extra hard to yell out. The burst of anger woke him from his dream and he found himself cuddled up to Bernice still. Rain water was dripping through the cat-tails onto his face, he adjusted slightly and Bernice did not budge. Only once in a while she would mutter softly or yelped suddenly. Kezwick did not wake her as he still felt very tired. At this point he wished that he had gotten some of the tea that Mezamir had been serving. Kezwick got up on all fours quietly and slowly slipped through the cat-tails out into the wet grasses. The rain had stopped and stars filled the sky. The storm clouds still rumbled in the distant north and Kezwick could see the last of the far off flashes of lightning. They would have to get moving toward the bridge soon. Kezwick was hoping to reach it by the morning. He then went back into the little place of rest and sat beside Bernice


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—as she slept. His thoughts drifted away from the true task and he pondered about the dreams he had had of late.

Bernice opened her eyes and looked up to see that Kezwick wasstaring up through the cat-tails to the stars and moon above. She got to her feet and gave Kezwick a sleepy smile, “The storm has passed master pig,” she said after a long stretch.

“Yes indeed it has and we should continue north to the bridge as the sun will rise soon enough,” Kezwick answered motioning out-wad from the cat-tails.

Bernice agreed and they made their way out into the wet grasses. The two of them were still soaked and the night air was damp and cold. They both walked weakly as hunger was beginning to sneak up on them, their bellies groaned and growled constantly. Far off in the distance, noises filled the air that they did not recognize but it was not the sound of wolves or at least they hoped it wasn’t.

“Do you hear that Kezwick?” Bernice asked in a careful whisper.“Yes,” the pig answered straining hard to listen, “yes I do.”Ahead there was a sound that pierced the night air every so of-

ten, it was a sharp squawk sound and it would echo over the now lighter roar of the Coldmare. Even though a puzzled fear filled the two yard animals they continued forward as the sounds came closer and closer. Then another sound came clear along side the squawks, it sounded like a loud flapping noise of wings that were ten times the size of Donetrun’s. Along the bank the cat-tails still towered high above and they were ready to dive into them at any moment. Conversation was coming clear and Kezwick motioned for him and Bernice to sneak a peak at what was now only a few paces away. Bernice disagreed but the pig was already ahead of her back into the cat-tails. She followed with worry. A few moments later they were peeking through the thick stems at something tall and dark, it was tall enough to walk in and out of the shallow water of the river. The moon light only showed the silhouette of the mysteri-

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ous creature and Kezwick and Bernice watched quietly as it moved about gracefully. Again there was a whispered conversation that was hard to make out and Kezwick leaned in a little closer to see if he could hear it. He overheard words like “wolves” and “danger” and at one point he heard one whisper “shadows near the bridge”. The pig stubbornly leaned forward a slight bit more and Bernice tried to pull him back but it was too late. Kezwick had fallen face first into mud and water and it splattered all over him and Bernice. Bernice tried to pull him up out of the mud to try and escape and she slipped and tumbled sideways into the thick mud along side the pig. Out of nowhere large birds frantically flew in all directions screaming loudly into the night air. Kezwick and Bernice remained where they were as the birds flew around them crying out that wolves were upon them. Kezwick chuckled under his breath. A moment later the only sound was the running river. Feathers floated all around them as they shimmered in the moon light. What they had come across was the Heron Nests that dotted a large part of the west bank along the Coldmare. The ruckus had scared off every single Heron for miles and all that remained was the large nests along the water.

“For being such big birds they do scare quite easy,” Kezwick said with a smile. The feathers were all around them as they made their way back up onto the wet grasses, “I was hoping to get some infor-mation from their conversation. They were speaking of wolves and I even heard something about the shadows.”

As the pig talked on about what his intentions had been Bernice began to laugh but trying not to burst out. The pig stopped his ex-cuses and looked at the lab with frustration, “What are you laughing about my dear Bernice?”

She calmed herself and smiled at the pig “You are covered in feathers Kezwick,” she said with another uncontrollable laugh, “From head to toe you are covered.”

Kezwick looked at himself and sure enough the moon shone


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—brightly on the tons of feathers that stuck to the fresh mud that had covered him, “My goodness,” he said with a slight laugh and then as he looked up at Bernice he broke into laughter also. Bernice looked down at herself and realized that she was covered in a thick coat of feathers as well. They laughed together for a moment and then stopped. The sound of heavy wings filled the air as the Heron re-turned with caution; Kezwick and Bernice covered in feathers from head to toe scurried away north just as the flock began to land and scout the area.

* * * * *

Out of breath they slowed down to a jog and then to a brisk walk. The mud had already dried and the feathers were stuck tightly to them both. Kezwick glanced back and noticed that there was a faint orange glow to the south, the morning was not far off and there was still quite a ways to go until they would reach the bridge. The two of them laughed a little more until again they realized that hunger was upon them and there was nothing in the way of food that they could see. They only had but one option, it was to keep moving toward the bridge and they did so with what strength they had left . . . . feathers and all.

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The Wall of Water

A FEW deep gashes bled as Donetrun remained limp, the others walked along the large rocks of the waterfalllooking for the secret opening. Ward stuck close to his

friend and urged them to look closer. Donetrun was breathing but the bleeding from two of the wounds was heavy as the hawk had very sharp claws. Pocket sniffed the air while Odman and Mischief tumbled about in search of the opening.

“Can you hear me Donetrun,” Ward whispered into the duck’s ear but there was no reply.

Wee Mischief and Odman bumped into one another and began to bicker when Pocket who was somewhere amongst the rocks called out, “I’ve found something here.”

Ward quickly scooped up the duck and made his way carefully over to where Pocket was calling from. A few moments later the other two stopped their arguing and searched for where the rabbit had called out from. The large rocks stood tall and blocked off any view of this small stone passage. If any animal were bigger then Ward they would be unable to fit through this thin passage or be-come stuck trying. Pocket had managed to sniff out a musty smell that led around three or four of the large rocks that covered the spot from passing eyes. Even from above it was difficult to spot. The passage was a perfect circle of smooth stone. If you were to peer in, it wouldlook only black, but if you were to listen closely and drown out the sound of the waterfall you could hear the sound of the splashes echo

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—deeply within, only Mezamir the Wise new of this passage for he had discovered it . . . . by accident mind you.

* * * * *

Before he came across the High Willow so many years ago the owls of the land where training to carry on their mystic and magic ways. Mezamir the Young was bold and flew to the far west in search of a home to complete his training. It had been a long night of hunting food and scouting out the land, the sun was coming up in the south and he was tired. The young owl did not have much knowledge of the west and there was a large piece of land that sat on the east side of the Coldmare not far from the bank. It was called the High Lands. To the south sits the magnificent Water Tip Wood that stretches for miles from the Coldmare to the Greens. The northern border of Water Tip Wood meets with the High Lands. The High Lands always had a reputation for its birds of prey mostly hawks and falcons. These hawks and falcons were very different; they had the tendency to prey upon any living creature bird or beast. Mezamir knew no better and flew beyond the Water Tip Wood to the north to find him stranded in the open air of the birds of prey. Before he could turn and think two enormous falcons came out of nowhere swooping and diving with their sharp claws outward. The young owl was quick but he could only keep up the dodging for so long. Using his training as one swooped in again, Mezamir cast a wind spell and it was the only one he had perfected at the time. A large powerful gust of wind sent one falcon tumbling for days to the farthest regions of the north. The other falcon was much quicker and twice avoided the wind spells from the owl. All owls knew that with each spell it took the body more time to gain back strength. He was beginning to feel weak and he was unable to fly with his usual speed. Mezamir the Young decided to turn up his tail and fly back

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toward the south but the falcon was gaining on him.The falcon was only a feathers length behind and showed no

sign of giving up. Mezamir glanced downward to the earth below and saw that he was over the Coldmare and in one spot he noticed a thick mist. He tucked in his wings and dropped toward it like a falling dart. The falcon did the same, with his sharp beak he grabbed onto one of Mezamir’s tail feathers, it popped out and the shock sent the owl into an out of control spiral. The falcon pulled back slightly as the owl spun toward the ground in circles fluttering his wings about. The ground was near and into the misty bank Mezamir tumbled. He had no control and it was too late even to try getting out of it. All he could do was brace himself, so he tucked into a ball and held his breath. The falcon waited just above the mist trying to catch his breath and listen for the thump, he figured that it would be an easy dinner after the impact, but as time passed there was no sound of the owl hitting the ground.

By pure luck Mezamir happened to be on the perfect angle with his fall. It had been the waterfall that was giving off the large cloud of mist and as the owl plunged toward it he passed the large rocks and landed right into the smooth passage way. He slid along the smooth rock and the circular form of the passage cradled his body as he did. After his lightning fast entry into the passage his speed slowed down to an eventual stop, he lay still for a moment and then opened his eyes. When the owl came to his senses and realized he was still alive he leaped up and danced about chanting “I’m alive! I’m alive!!” He then looked around at where he had ended up. He was standing on the other side of the waterfall as right before him the waters of the Coldmare fell hard and loud. By accident, he had found a secret passage that was hidden behind the waterfall. The young owl had decided almost instantly that this would not be his home; the enormous roar of The Fall was too loud. Mezamir the Young then walked the entire length of the passage and found out

The Wall of Water—

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—that it took him across the entire Coldmare River to Water Tip on the other side and completely in secret. The falcon had left long be-fore Mezamir had even come to realize where it was he had landed. And to this day until the band came to his home, it had been his secret alone.

* * * * *

The musty smell that Pocket had sniffed out came from the dampness deep inside the passage. They all came across the open-ing and peered in, even if another animal had come across the small opening it did not have the appearance of a passage that would by-pass the entire river. Ward tried to look in further but he only saw darkness so after a quick discussion the group came to the decision that this was the safest route. Ward was the largest and went first. With Donetrun on his back he had to squeeze slightly but was able to enter the passage without a problem. Wee Mischief followed close to Ward as he eyed the dark, Odman started into the open-ing when a force pulled him back, it was Pocket, “Just where do you think you’re going?”

Odman turned to the rabbit with anger on his face, “Release me or you will suffer the same fate as the hawk did,” he answered strong-ly. Ward paused in the passage hearing the confrontation and was not surprised as he knew Pocket was against the skunk even being close to them, “Pocket! It will be alright. We should be safe behind the waterfall, as soon as we reach the other side we will send Odman on his way, it will be up to him what he does after that . . . . we owe him that much.”

The rabbit and skunk eyed one another for a moment and then Pocket released his grip, “A burden is all you are skunk,” and at that Pocket went in ahead of Odman. The skunk followed with a feeling of anger but he wanted so badly to meet the lady of the land.

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Darkness still surrounded the passage ahead and Ward strained his eyes trying to catch a glimpse of light further ahead but could see nothing. Donetrun was now moving slightly and making an odd noise. This was a good sign as the duck hadn’t made a peep in some time. The rock passage was so smooth that at times the group would slip slightly trying not to fall. Silence was broken by the rumble of the waterfall just outside the passage but other then that the nails of all the animals clicking on the stone was the only other sound. After a short while Ward noticed that the roar had become louder again, not as loud as when he was standing by the waterfall but it would be difficult to speak to the others in a low voice. His eye then caught a dim light ahead and he picked up his pace. The light glimmered blue and white and seemed to move softly about like ripples in a pond.

“I see light,” he said to Mischief who was close behind him.At this point the stone passage was flooded with a shimmering

glow and the moving blue and white light surrounded the entire circle of smooth stone. Donetrun opened his eyes slightly and was mesmerized by the light, “Is this the place you go to after time takes you away?” the duck said with a weak smile.

Ward smiled also as he could see the end of the passage. When they came out they stood in an enormous hall like space, it stretched on for what seemed to be miles. High above their heads large rock formations hung down with pointed ends. To their right were rough rock walls and under their feet were smooth stone floors that gleamed from the light mist in the air. The light mist came from the waterfall and it floated about like small clouds of dust flashing in sunlight. At the same time they look to their left and saw the inner side of the falls, they were actually standing on the opposite side and the view was spectacular. The waterfall danced and splashed. Water fell hard and the sound hummed throughout the hall, when they looked through they could slightly see the other side where the Coldmare


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—continued to flow after the long drop, the large rocks at the base of the falls were also seen clearly. They all got up close to the water and felt as though they would be able to touch it and not get wet.

“The wall of water,” wee Mischief whispered as the light danced on all their faces, “it is like a wall of water.”

Beyond the secret passage, the sun was setting in the north and a large storm was in the works. They would be safe from a bad storm and from any eyes that may be in search of them. It was a perfect plan devised by the wise owl of the High Willow. As the others talked and watched the wall of water Ward tended to Donetrun. He immediately took the flask of vine juices in his mouth and poured a small bit on the four bleeding wounds the duck had gotten, one on each wing, one on his belly and one on his neck. He then found a dry corner along the wall to the right and laid Donetrun down to rest peacefully there.

“We will rest here until night passes,” Ward said to the others. They were all very tired now and had no problem with the lab’s deci-sion. Ward saw that the day was dwindling beyond the wall of water and the hall was becoming dark. They would not be able to light a fire for the night as there was no wood about but the falls would do a fine job sheltering them from the cold storm. They huddled to-gether and Ward explained that they would use the rest of the vine juice in the morning to give them all the energy they would need to walk across the entire hall and out the other side. They would likely find food for themselves of some kind when they came out of the hall. The one thing about the land is that it was rich in wild food the animals always had an abundance when they ventured through the right places.

Soon after they settled, sleep came quick. Odman was off in a corner by himself fast asleep and the others were all close together. Donetrun slept as did Pocket kicking his left hind leg as he slept on his back. Ward kept a close eye on the duck; he was already begin-

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ning to heal. Mischief was still awake and he lay close to Ward’s side.

“Do you think Donetrun will be aright Master Ward?” the wee dog asked with worry.

Ward looked down at Mischief with a warm smile, “I think so, yes,” he answered as many things pulsed through his mind. They were quiet for a moment again as the hall was now almost pitch back and the storm raged outside the wall of water.

“Odman spoke of wanting to see her, by that he means our Mother Nature, does he not,” Mischief asked again breaking the silence.

“Odman means well, he just has too much curiosity for his owngood,” Ward explained, “Sometimes the wonders of the land should e left unknown to avoid endangerment.”

Mischief was quiet again as he hesitated on the next question. Ward looked at him seeing that he was pondering to ask more, “What is it wee Mischief.”

“I assume we will go to the Mushroom Fields to see her and I feel uptight,” the wee dog said softly, “I mean being in her presence I imagine would be quite overwhelming.”

“Its nothing to fear Mischief my father used to tell me stories of her beauty and her kindness,” Ward explained, “she will most likely laugh at your angst about seeing her.”

“That’s easy for you to say, you talk to her all the time,” Mischief said with a snort, “and how is it that you talk to her and others do not?”

“Others have in the past . . . . it’s all to do with the black stone,”

Ward answered. He then went into an explanation of how it all worked and Mischief listened intently.

“When Mother Nature imprisoned Dark Sky in the stone at the end of the war many animals disagreed with her decision. Some felt


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—that he would bring order to the land. He was to control all the ani-mals in the cycle of nature and then he was going to bring the fight to man. Mother Nature saw his greed for power and saw no other option but to bring an end to Dark Sky’s reign. She only wanted to keep nature in balance, yes, man has caused problems for nature in the past but this is just the way things are meant to be. Mother Na-ture could not allow such an uprising,” Ward paused for a moment to check on the condition of Donetrun and then continued as the duck was sleeping soundly.

“After Dark Sky was trapped in the stone Mother Nature cast a safe spell upon it so that she would be able to speak directly to the barer to find out if the stone was safe. Who ever held the stone could hear her and speak with her. Mezamir the Wise was the one that she chose to hold the stone in secret. After a short period of time the owl said that the stone was making him feel paranoid, so Mother Nature let him choose another animal that he trusted to hold it. The old owl chose Marvel the Warthog but he refused. Af-ter the war, the warthog cared nothing for anything outside his dark corner of the old barn. He mentioned that my father was a strong master of the yard and the owl did not even think twice of handing it over to him.” Ward paused as Mischief piped up.

“So the stone has been in the yard for many a year and none knew it,” he said seeming wide awake while all the others slept.

“There was no danger if no one knew. I did not even know until the day my father died and gave me the task of guarding the stone,” Ward answered as if still being surprised that the stone was left to him.

“So were you scared? I mean did your father tell you of the spell she had put on it,” wee Mischief asked.

“My father told me of its past and the effect it had on its guard-ian, but when the day came that she spoke through my mind I was shaking in fear for many days,” Ward said with a seemingly funny

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smile.“Wow,” Mischief said laughing slightly, “that would be quite an

experience.”“You get use to it after a while but never really completely, it’s like

having a blind mouse on your shoulder asking questions constantly,” Ward said and the two of them laughed softly causing the others to stir slightly, all but Donetrun that is, he was so still Ward would have to give him a nudge every so often just to see if he was still breathing, “The ones that give the stone up lost the ability over a long period of time, my father never experienced as he had died. Mezamir heard Mother Nature and I for awhile until it faded away to nothing. So I am the one who speaks with and hears her . . . . it was a burden I only took because my father asked it. I would take on any burden to honour him.”

Ward then laid down his head and yawned. He looked at wee Mischief and gave him a friendly smile, “Get some sleep wee dog for when the sun rises we will pass the Coldmare in secret and then make our way to the Mushroom Fields.”

“It is a shame that we are unable to venture the entire way in secret as we do now,” Mischief said beginning to doze but his words went unheard as Ward was fast asleep. The sound of the falls seemed to help the wee dog drift off as the storm raged outside the magnifi-cent wall of water.

* * * * *

Mischief woke suddenly as Ward stood over him whispering for him to be silent. Pocket was also up as was Odman, it was still very dark but the storm had let up and the moon was giving a little light beyond the wall of water. Mischief got up slowly and Pocket hissed quietly for him to be still. Ward stood beside the rabbit close to the falls looking out while whispering into each others ears, something


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—was up but wee Mischief could not see what it was. He went to move again and Pocket glared back at him.

Just outside the falls leaping about on the large rocks that stuck high up out of the Coldmare were about five or six wolves sniffing around. They could not see past the falls but they would be able to hear if there was any commotion, Pocket then spoke in a more clear whisper, “Its Odman they smell, he is keeping them on our trail,” he whispered with anger.

“Calm yourself my friend.” Ward said in a soft whisper, “This is not the time to give blame.”

Odman stood off by himself watching the wolves as they jumped from rock to rock with agility and grace. Ward noticed that they were the higher ranked wolves of Silver Side due to their shinny grey hair. The lower ranked wolves were the black haired ones that moved in larger packs. The grey wolves moved in small numbers and with much more speed they also are much better scouts than the larger packs are. Ward motioned for everyone to come in close and they all did carefully without a peep. Donetrun still remained sleeping along the far wall.

“Pocket is going to lead us down the hall heading toward the east, the both of you follow quietly and I will worry about the duck,” Ward said as Pocket was already making his way through the dark. Without question Odman and Mischief followed with only a slight hesitation. Ward then slowly moved the duck with his snout up over his head and on to the back of his neck. The others were out of sight but the lab knew which way they had gone and followed quietly. Donetrun moaned a bit and went quiet. Ward looked back and saw that two of the grey wolves were still and staring into the falls they then began to whisper to one another. Fear filled the lab’s heart as he turned and headed off into the darkness.

As they moved further along the inside of The Falls, Pocket noticed the path was becoming more treacherous, tall jagged rocks

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stuck upward out of the smooth stone floor and they had to weave around them. Some of the rocks stretched from the top of The Falls to the bottom blocking out what little light they had from the moon. It was getting hard to see what was ahead, so Pocket proceeded with caution, he wished for the sun soon.

Mischief and Odman stumbled about. They did not speak as the thought of the wolves finding the secret hall terrified them both. Ward came quickly along in the rear keeping the duck steady.

After a while, Ward found a spot to stop and catch his breath. Pocket scowled at the skunk with eyes of blame. Odman just stuck his noise in the air and went off by himself sitting behind a looming rock by the falls. Pocket then proceeded over to Ward and Mischief, “If we keep that stinky creature along for the venture our chances of getting caught are doubled Master Ward.”

Ward turned and looked into the rabbit’s eyes, “He will travel with us to the other side of the Coldmare, after that the choice of where to go is his own,” he answered in conclusion.

Pocket remained quiet and it came to agreement that no more blame would be sent. They were now a long way from where the wolves had got a scent so they spoke in a louder tone. With the larger rocks blocking out the wall of water, the sound of the falls was not as overwhelming. They all sat for a moment or two when a voice suddenly came clear, “Is it at all possible to get a drink of water?”

They all jumped up and crowded around Donetrun. He was awake but his eyes were only half open. They noticed that the wounds had healed up well with the fast healing of the vine juice from Thick Brush. Donetrun got to his feet with a slight wobble and walked about the hall adjusting his wings every so often, “I dreamt that I fought in the air with a hawk,” Donetrun said looking back at the others.

“You did my friend,” Ward said with a smile.The duck paused for a moment looking down at the rock be-


neath his feet and then back up again, “Remind me not to do that again.”

They all laughed a seemingly fake happiness as wee Mischief walked over to Donetrun, “I am in your debt now it seems lord duck,” he said bowing with thanks.

Donetrun spoke out loudly so that they all heard, “None owe debt, we are the band and any would do the same.”

They all agreed with the duck’s words and then realized in all the ruckus the sun was gleaming through the wall of water. Morning had come and it was time to continue. Ward figured that they were about half way through the halls of the secret passage but he was not positively sure of that. He glanced every so often out beyond the wall of water in fear that the grey wolves were still searching about the rocks but all the time he looked there was no sign of them. Donetrun followed behind him with a new strength as the juices of Thick Brush flowed through his body. He felt as though he could fly all the way south past the mighty Black Root Forest. Mischief and Pocket were close by and the rabbit continually sniffed the air. Odman was at the far rear keeping the furthest distance between himself and Pocket.

“What road will we take Master Ward, when we reach the east side of the waterfall I mean,” Donetrun said speaking over the wa-ters roar which had become quite loud again.

“I must go to her.......she asked that we stop at the Mushroom Fields,” Ward answered simply.

“May I ask why,” the duck retorted.“She asked of it, she gave no reason,” Ward said as they con-

tinued in the dark, “I have my reasons also, questions only she can answer.” “Have you seen her before?”

Ward looked at the duck with eyes that seemed burdened and lost, “I have only heard her voice and it is one of beauty.”

“So we all go to her at this time of trouble and she will guide us

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—

on our way then,” Donetrun said looking ahead, “she will keep us safe.”

Ward looked blankly ahead after taking his eyes off of the duck,“Yes . . . . I believe so.”

* * * * *

Onward they went trying not to think of what danger lay ahead. Ward knew that any corner turned could be the end after they came out the other side, but maybe just maybe there was some hope that would lead them safely to what it was that he wanted, to save his son Peller and the balance of hope was hanging high above them all.

They would continue through the hall that was secretly hidden behind the wall of water for another day until the destination was within reach. A small passage, the same as the one on the other side where they had entered, led them out onto the bank on the east side of the Coldmare River. Out from behind the wall of water the band came as the sun shone bright in the south giving them a welcome to another bright morning. Puddles of rain water still sat shimmering like miniature lakes among the rocks of The Falls as the mist drifted softly in the morning air. Ward took out the vial which contained the last of the juices and poured it into one of the puddles. He then got the others to crowd around it and drink heartily. They all got their fill and felt much better inside mentally and physically. Ward saved some at the end for Odman and the skunk slurped up the last of it.

They stood on Water Tip, to the southwest were the Coldmare wetlands and to the east was the Water Tip Road that led directly through the heart of Water Tip Wood. Water Tip was the piece of land where the Coldmare turned toward the west and was the other end to the enormous waterfall. It was an open area with a few large stray rocks that stuck up out of the brown grass and weeds. It was


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like the void that sat dormant in the center of all different elements. To the southeast through a small strip of land that squeezed be-tween the Coldmare wetlands and Water Tip Wood was the home of Mother Nature and they now made their way cautiously toward the Mushroom Fields.

The Gathering—

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Coldmare Bridge

KEZWICK and Bernice traveled north along the bank ofthe Coldmare still covered in mud and feathers fromtheir heads to their toes. They walked slowly as their

strength was beginning to vanish. They had drank some water from the river which gave them some energy but food was what they re-ally needed. The cat-tails were now far behind them and all that re-mained was a clear view of the Coldmare’s raging waters. Far ahead to the north there was a large black mass that sat looming off to the left. Kezwick paused for a moment as he stared at it, Bernice then paused also looking back at the pig, “What is it Master Kezwick,” she asked waiting patiently for an answer that did not come for a few moments.

“Nothing,” he blurted out loudly shaking his head, “Its nothing my dear,” he added continuing north. Bernice glanced at the large black mass and then followed him without question.

As they moved along the pig kept glaring at the mass from time to time causing him to stumble every so often. It got closer and closer with each step until it was to their far left now and at this point Bernice noticed that it was a large forest of looming blackish looking trees, “Are those not the Crabby Trees of the south?”

Kezwick stopped again staring at them. He whispered softly what seemed to be to himself. He then began to move north again staying silent and walking a ways ahead of Bernice, “What is the matter Kezwick,” she said now raising her voice, he stopped and turned to look at her with a smile; “It’s nothing my dear Bernice,

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—nothing to worry about.”

The Crabby Trees sat a half a mile to the west and the whispers of the trees echoed in the pig’s ears. Don’t forget your promise young pig, we hold you to your word. He knew what it was the trees were whispering about but it would be a later task from this point, much later. Trees had more patience then any living creation in the land. They took their time to grow, to spread their limbs and bud tips into flowers or fruit. Trees have patience indeed, more then all that live and the years they live surpass all others.

The pig answered simply that he would keep his promise and it was all he could give, his word was his bond. So on they went as Bernice wondered about what it was that the pig had been ponder-ing about but she never would find out. A short distance separated them from the great Swift and soon the sound that they did not look forward to would fill the air. The flying steel was abundant and it was a blessing that they would not have to cross the Swift up top. The Crabby Trees were a long ways behind them now and flashes of light up ahead gave them the chills, it was from the flying steel. Kezwick stopped to scout the road ahead as best he could, he looked in all directions. Bernice came up beside him talking about the ledge under the Coldmare Bridge and how falling into the river would most likely be the end for them both.

They walked toward the Swift side by side. At this point they hardly noticed the mud and feathers that covered their bodies. The sun traveled faster to the north than they wanted, but it was out of their control. By the time they would reach the bridge it would be dim, the sun was falling behind the land to the north and then dark-ness would be upon them once more. The ground started to rise as they came within paces of the bridge and what a sight it was! From what they could see, it looked as though the bridge stretched to the east for miles beyond their sight. The grass was tall and green and the height they were at now allowed them to look down on the river

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but they had to be careful when looking down as there was a steep dirt hill that dropped all the way to the river below. Spruce trees grew out of the hill on strange angles and large pale rocks seemed on the verge of letting go and tumbling down to the Coldmare.

At the top they came face to face with the flying steel. It roared past continually from both directions. The two of them stared at it for a moment remembering their encounter from before; it gave them both a fright. The sun was a dark orange to the north as it was just moments away from dropping out of sight. They needed to make their way under the bridge before night fell. As they turned their eyes rested upon the Coldmare Bridge, it stretched for miles as the flying steel rushed onto and off of it. It produced a deep rumble when it was traveled upon at such speeds. The underside had large grey pillars that came from below the bridge all the way down to the river, the Coldmare’s rough waters smashed up against them hard and sprays of water filled the air. Large cables swayed in the evening breeze and slapped against the side of the bridge every so often. To these small animals the bridge was a wonder they would never forget.

“We must make our way under my dear,” Kezwick said as he began to walk toward a small path that led under the bridge, “Night is here.”

The two of them shuffled down a path of gravel and dirt and soon reached the belly of the bridge. Underneath it was damp and cold but safe from watching eyes. There were only rocks and dirt and it spread all the way across to the other side. They walked a little ways as darkness crept across the land and only now the moon and stars gave them light. A tiny bit of light came from the flying steel but only in flashes. High above their heads the bridge rumbled and creaked, Kezwick stopped and sat on the dirt. He looked up at the underside of the bridge and hoped that it would hold.

“We should rest here a while,” the pig said looking at the lab,

Coldmare Bridge—

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—“then we push for the yard.”

“I don’t know if I can make it to the yard Kezwick,” Bernice said as she began to cry, “I have no strength left.”

“The sun will dawn again my dear and when it does we will travel to the yard together,” Kezwick said smiling, “we will then fill our bellies as we always have.”

The pig lay down on the dirt and took a deep breath Bernice lay-beside him as the cold damp air chilled their bones. The river roared and the bridge rumbled as they both began to drift off. Droopy eyed Bernice turned her head to the pig, seeing he was covered in feath-ers she gave a little laugh, “What are we going to tell the animals of what we have become?”

Kezwick snored almost as loud as the rivers rage and then Ber-nice fell asleep in hopes of waking again. Kezwick twitched as his dreams took hold . . . .

* * * * *

Mist surrounded Kezwick’s ankles as he wandered around in a strange dark place. When he breathed out he could see his breath drifting in the air for a moment and then vanish. Panic became apparent in his mind as the only clear things were the mist and his breath. He had no idea where he was and he yelled out for Bernice but there was no answer. A sound far off was becoming louder with each passing moment. Due to its immense echo he could not figure out which direction it was coming from. The pig closed his eyes and took a seat; he recognized the sound as hooves pounding into the earth. This could only be the great Horse Lords of the fields but why would they be here? Kezwick turned and opened his eyes to see the tall unicorn standing before him as the horn flashed with bril-liant light. The pig went to speak and the unicorn motioned for him to follow, he did not get a word in as the beast turned and began to

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walk off into the darkness. Kezwick stood up but could not move, he wanted to follow the unicorn but the strength in his legs failed and he felt as though he would fall over. The unicorn was quite far off in the darkness now. It turned to look back as its eyes glimmered in the black; once again it motioned for the pig to follow. Kezwick tried to speak but could not and the unicorn was gone. Then a new sound dawned in the grim air, a sound of small voices singing happy songs.

* * * * *

A bright glint of light shone into Kezwick’s eyes, he squinted with blood shot sight. Bernice was gently shaking him out of his deep sleep he had just realized that he had slept the entire night but his strength level would have disagreed. He sat up weakly and looked around with a big yawn. The singing had not been just some dream as it still remained. Bernice welcomed him back to the real world and then pointed out where the singing was coming from:

“We are the chub, we are the chub.Swim in a river and not in a tub.We are the chub, we are the chub.Swim in a river and not in a tub.”

Kezwick was now wide awake as the small tune brought on a puzzled look. Bernice was already walking down toward the closest pillar that was not far off of the bank of the river. The Swift high above did not sound as busy and the singing was loud enough to match the rumble of the rivers water. They made their way to the edge of the Coldmare and peered out into the water as that is where the song came from but they saw nothing. The singing was as clear as a sunny day and they looked in all directions until something splashed about a little ways passed the pillar. Bernice sniffed the air and then turned to Kezwick with a look of wonder, “It smells of fish,

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—like the way the air smells in the early spring near the east fence of the fields.”

Kezwick nodded but said nothing, whatever it was came closer at each note sung. It then was clear now of what was singing the tune, a large school of chubs were coming close at a quickening pace. The chubs outnumbered any other breed of fish in the Coldmare River twenty to one. They passed the pillar and a large number of them had their heads up out of the water singing, then they would drop back down under the surface to be replaced by others and so on, and so on.

“There are so many my dear,” the pig said nudging Bernice whom was already looking.

The chubs finally noticed the feather covered strangers and made a quick switch of heads. The fresh heads spoke in unison, “Strange land dwellers you are, strange indeed.”

Kezwick paused before answering, “We are not what you see be-fore you as our true self ’s are under all of these feathers and mud.”

The fish heads went under the water as others replaced them still speaking in unison, “You are birds are you not?”

“No,” Bernice answered quickly as she was still cracked up by the current situation, “We are animals of the yard to the north west.”

The chubs all vanished for a moment and then one popped up, “We have discussed this yard you speak of and we have heard of it before but the animals are of a different kind.”

“Somewhat,” Kezwick answered, “we had an accident a ways back and what you see is the outcome, we are actually a pig and a dog. I am Kezwick and this is dear Bernice the golden lab.”

“Pig and dog eh . . . . why is it that you walk under the bridge and not over?” said one chub who vanished before they could answer, he was quickly replaced by another.

“It is safer for us to walk under the bridge, we fear the flying steel,” Kezwick answered honestly, “We are afraid to be stuck.”

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No fish were above the water when two suddenly appeared, “You speak so honestly,” one said as the other finished, “Honesty always goes rewarded.”

Bernice smiled at the tiny fish and they vanished under the wa-ter again. She and Kezwick sat still for a moment waiting for them to pop back up and just when Kezwick was about to turn and start another day of traveling three of the chubs popped back up, “Your honesty has given the rest of the school a sense of comfort, we feared that you may have been trouble but we have decided that you are not and invite you to eat with us.”

Before the pig could ask a question two large piles shot up out of the water and landed before them. It was river weed. River weed sat at the deepest points of the rivers’ bed. It was dark green and very slimy to the touch. The texture was gushy and stringy and the taste was not what one would call delicious. Kezwick stared at the pile of slime and his stomach grumbled as did Bernice’s. They then looked at each other without saying a word but they both knew what it was that they wanted to say . . . . you first.

Strangely enough they both slurped up the mess and did not leave a single piece. Energy surged though both their bodies within moments of eating the river weed. The chubs were peeking up out of the water with river weed sticking out of their mouths, “Did you enjoy?”

Kezwick swallowed the last piece down hard and nodded; Ber-nice smiled and thanked the chub. They felt strong again and were now ready to head back to the yard. Many thanks were given by both Kezwick and Bernice as the chub quickly swam away;

“We are the chub, we are the chub.Swim in a river and not in a tub.We are chub, we are the chub.Swim in a river and not in a tub.”

Coldmare Bridge—

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—Kezwick and Bernice watched as the smallest stragglers scurried

to catch up with the school and soon enough the singing diminished out beyond the tumbling waves of the Coldmare. The pig made his way along the bank of the Coldmare with Bernice close by until they came across an old ledge. When the bridge had been built they had not finished filling all the support gaps that sat close to the river al-most going right over top of it. The gaps were just wide enough for Bernice it seemed and Kezwick would have no problems.

“This is it my dear, we cross this ledge and we are only a few miles away from home,” Kezwick said with a sense of excitement.

“It will be nice to see it, even though it has not been very long. It seems as though we have been traveling for quite some time,” Bernice added with the thought of arriving home giving her a lift out of worry.

She pictured it in her thoughts. As all the yard animals greet them with smiles, she even sees Ward standing far off by the old barn with Mischief at his side. Donetrun stands tall behind the wee dog with Pocket off to the ducks left. Bernice sniffles and lowers her head Kezwick looks back at her with concern, “What is it my dear, why do you cry now?”

She looks up at the pig as tears glisten in her eyes, “I dreamt last night that the band returned . . . . without Ward or Peller.”

Kezwick quickly walked over to her side and kissed her on the cheek, “It is only a dream dear Bernice that is all. You can not base your hope on it, you must be strong and think of happy end-ings . . . . and then your dreams will change,” the pig said as the thought of his dreams of late pulsed through his mind.

Bernice sniffled as she calmed her emotions and then the two of them began the task of crossing the ledge. A steep dirt hill with loose gravel led up to the ledge and it was difficult for them both to get good footing. The ledge was very thin and it dropped straight down to the river below. At the other end of the ledge was more

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loose gravel and a pathway that was littered with grass patches lead-ing up and out from under the bridge. The ledge was about thirty feet across to the other side, which would be the same distance across atop the bridge. The width of the space to walk along was only about two feet which did not give them much room to step move, it would prove to be quite difficult. Kezwick stepped ahead of Bernice to-ward the thin ledge and the lab quickly snatched on to his tail pull-ing him back, “Let me go first Kezwick you have led the entire way so far without fear, let me earn my courage.”

The pig was about to disagree but it was too late. Bernice was al-ready placing one paw onto the ledge; she had to push up against the wall of rock that sat solid to the left of the ledge. The rock scraped against her and she cringed as she moved along slowly. It was hard not to look at the river far below because the ledge was so thin, she tried not to look and eyed the ledge carefully with each step. Kez-wick took a deep breath and followed. He had an easier time as he was much smaller than Bernice but his hooves proved difficult as he steadied him self against the rock.

“Try not to look at the water Kezwick,” Bernice yelled back as the river’s pace suddenly quickened, “Look closely at the ledge, con-centrate on the ledge.”

He did and it took away some of the fear that was beginning to take hold. Small vibrations shimmied along the ledge as the two of them could feel it, the river water was also bashing against pillars adding to the fright. Pebbles rolled under Bernice’s feet as the ledge was covered in them and they constantly fell to the water below in trails of fine dust. Bernice was about half way now and she paused for a moment to take a breather. The pig saw this and did the same almost hugging the rock wall. A few moments later she glanced back as best she could and nodded, they continued across.

The other end was close now as the flying steel rumbled high above their heads. Bernice noticed a large crack in the ledge as she

Coldmare Bridge—

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—neared the gravel path. She looked back at the pig with eyes of worry, Kezwick was a ways back moving slower as his fear was much stronger than the lab’s was.

“There is a large crack on the ledge at this point master pig, do be careful and watch out for it,” Bernice warned as she stepped consciously over the crack and went on to the end leaping thank-fully onto the gravel. Seeing this, the pig sped up his pace teetering slightly a few times on the way and in his eagerness he had thought nothing of the warning that Bernice had given. With one step onto the crack the ledge crumbled under his hoof and the pig fell forward as his chin slammed down. His one leg dangled over the side and he was beginning to slide off toward the gravel drop to the right.

“Bernice!!!!!” he yelled as he had gone stiff with shock, “Help!”Without a second thought Bernice lunged back out onto the

ledge while almost falling off herself. She slowly slid along to where the pig was about to fall all the time calming him with soft talk. The ledge continued to crumble and Kezwick fell . . . . just at that mo-ment the jaws of dear Bernice closed softly onto the ears of the pig and in one motion she swung her neck back tossing Kezwick onto the gravel as he rolled a few paces stirring up dust. Bernice swayed a moment and then braced her self against the rock she stood there until the shakes had passed. She calmed herself as she then pro-ceeded to leap back onto the gravel. They had passed back over the Swift and the day was young.

Up on the other side, the view of the bridge was the same, and they took a long look at the magnificent structure. The flying steel zipped passed at speeds unknown to them both and they felt a sense of relief knowing that they would not have to venture across it again or at least for now. The smell of the Coldmare was strong in the air and now they would travel west back to the yard . . . . home.

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Return to the Yard

THEroad back to the yard from this point was the shortest of all their travels. Thick grasses and weeds was the onlyburdens of their way west, the south fence which lead

into the fields of the yard was only roughly a mile away. Once they reached it they could pass over into the fields where they would feel much safer. There strength levels were high due to the river weed that was given to them by the chub and the terrible taste still lin-gered. It was enough strength to last them until they came to the yard itself. The sun seemed hot that day even though the cool season was just around the corner, Kezwick and Bernice trudged through the long grass slowing their pace as they pushed on.

“Do you smell that Master Kezwick . . . . there seems to be a foul smell in the air,” Bernice said sticking her nose high in the air.

Kezwick could not see well over the high grass as he then glanced back at Bernice, “Lets keep moving my dear, home is not far now.”

The smell lingered in the air becoming stronger. Worry struck them both and they tried to pick up their pace. There were then strange noises surrounding them both, something was moving all around them in the grass and weeds. Kezwick breathed heavily with fear and looked about seeing nothing but the land around them, “Can you see anything my dear?” Bernice looked around but saw only the landscape the same as the pig saw it, “Nothing master pig—I see nothing.”

Something was upon them and the pig then realized that they were now coming out of the tall grass. Kezwick moved quickly out

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—onto a flat piece of land that rose up slightly, far off ahead of them there was a faint image, “Look Bernice my dear the yard is straight ahead,” Bernice smiled and said not a word while they moved to-ward it.

“Be still a moment,” a voice hissed from behind them.They both stopped dead in their tracks and did not move or turn.

Foot steps moved lightly around their sides and they both tensed up as whatever it was belonged to the voice was about to come into clear view. It was Mermon the shadow weasel. He came out in front of them and eyed them up and down with his eerie look. Blomm and Blum appeared a moment later on either side of Mermon. Blomm stared at them with his one eye as Blum drooled slightly with a crazed look. The pig and lab sat still and did not speak, shock kept them from trying to run. Mermon pulled out a small sharp knife from under his black tattered clothing he ran the knife along his cheek lightly as the other two weasels giggled with a hiss. He then picked at his sharp finger nails with the blade humming some evil sounding tune.

“You are strange looking birds what breed are you?” Mermon asked with a look of confusion, he tried his best to hide it.

Kezwick thought for a moment as Bernice remained quiet, “We are Heron of the Coldmare’s bank,” the pig said with a slight shake to his voice he then nervously cleared his throat.

“Heron,” Blomm said peering at them hard with his one eye, “why may I ask are two heron of the oddest kind venturing so far from the Coldmare?”

Bernice then answered quickly as Kezwick had still been in thought, “We have misplaced one of our own and are in search of him, many directions we have traveled.”

The shadow weasels stood still, Blomm and Blum looked to Mermon for an answer and he was scratching his chin with the small knife he had pulled out earlier. Kezwick sat in terror try-ing not to make it too clear that he was. Mermon then suddenly

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pointed the knife at them as the tip flashed in the daylight, “Have either of you birds seen strange animals that are under the influence of man . . . . tame dogs . . . . small pigs?” he asked still holding out the knife.

Kezwick and Bernice looked at one another and then back to the shadow weasels answering in unison, “No . . . . ”

Mermon laughed and shoved the knife back into his black tat-ter outfit the other two laughed along with him looking confused at what it was he was laughing about, “I speak of strange animals about and the two of you are stranger then any I have ever seen!” Mermon said with an even louder laugh and the other two laughed more hysterically now that they were clear on what it was he was laughing about.

Mermon then waved an arm and Blomm and Blum slowly walked out of sight on either side of the strange birds. Mermon leaned in close to them both with a prying eye, “Change is on the horizon, days of new will come and all will look upon the land in a different way,” he said in a hissing voice he then straightened up and gave one last hard laugh as he walked away and then the shadows were gone.

Kezwick and Bernice stayed seated where they were for a mo-ment longer looking straight ahead without a word. They could see that the yard was close and it was scary knowing that they had come that close to being caught. They looked down at themselves seeing all the feathers and breathed out slowly in relief. The accident at the Coldmare had covered up their true identities and saved them from being discovered by the shadow weasels of the Black Dens. Bernice got to her feet and looked down at the feather covered pig, “Shall we,” she said with a smile.

The pig slowly got up and nodded, at that the two friends of the yard returned to their home just as the sun fell deep into the north.

* * * * *

Return to the Yard—

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—The yard was silent as there was a faint orange glow that spread

across it. Kezwick smiled and quickly ran over to the front of the house but when he got there it bore no food for him and he frowned in anger. The pig then turned away to walk around to the back and noticed a familiar sight, wee Mischief ’s dog house sat still in the eve-ning twilight and the dark hole leading into it was hollow. Kezwick felt sorrow imagining his good friend laying half inside and half out of the dog house with his head resting upon his paws, “Where are you wee dog . . . . I hope you are safe.”

Kezwick walked around into the back and saw Bernice waiting for him. She smiled and then the two of them looked at the old barn just as the last of the days sunlight faded away. They walked over to the barn and they saw that the front door was slightly ajar. The pig saw his small shelter with the little leather piece door and yawned widely smacking his lips afterwards.

“It has been a long road master pig I think our endeavors can wait till morning,” Bernice said also giving off a long yawn.

Kezwick walked over to his small wood shelter and peeked in-side he then looked back at Bernice, “Much better than the cat-tails or the rumbling bridge I must say.”

Bernice laughed and a warmer smile then any other the pig had seen spread across her face, “We will wash away what covers us also and birds we will no longer be . . . . good night my small friend,” and at that Bernice slipped into the old barn.

Kezwick stared all about the yard as darkness fell and the moon glowed in amongst scattered clouds. The yard was quiet and still. The pig wished that the others were there also but they weren’t, they were off somewhere far away, somewhere he could not see. Soon sleep took him and dreams flooded his thought.

* * * * *

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Kezwick stood amongst tall dark trees that seemed to stretch all the way up to the black clouds high above. The air was damp; he coughed and cleared his throat. There was no breeze but the trees seemed to be moving in a swaying motion and they moaned deep inside. Off in the distance the pig could hear a slight murmur of voices as though there was a conversation in the works. He began to move toward it snaking around the large trunks of the tall dark trees. The voices were becoming louder as he moved and at some point it almost seemed as though the voices were pulling him toward them. Deep fear dwelled inside the pig but he continued as some of the trees whipped him in the face. Kezwick peeked around one of the large trees that he hid behind and saw two speaking directly at one another. The unicorn was there stamping his hooves and speaking gibberish and an owl . . . . it was Mezamir the Wise but he looked older then he was. The owl was hunched over and waving a free wing as he spoke, frustration filled the pig and he leaned in closer trying not to make a peep but it was no use nothing made sense. Mezamir then pulled out a pipe and lit it as the unicorn continued to speak after a few puffs the owl bowed to the beast and flew off somewhere high into the trees. The unicorn paused a moment and looked around. He let out a quick gust of air from his nose and then turned and ran off into the dark trees.

The pig walked out into the opening where the two had been talking and circled the spot. He looked up and there was a large space in the tree tops that looked directly into the night sky he smiled at the twinkling stars when suddenly something flew down at him from high above its eyes were shimmering and black and its wing span was wider then any bird he had seen. Its claw opened as the sharp ends flashed in the dark and he was about to land onto the pig . . . .

* * * * *


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—Kezwick jumped out of the dream covered in a thick sweat. His

head was laying half out of his shelter and he saw the stars above. He slowly got up and rubbed his head trying to come to his nerves.

“Bad dreams pig,” a voice said causing Kezwick to jump once more.

He turned and saw shiny eyes staring at him in the dark. As the animal came closer it was clear that there was a swaying tail in the air.

Kezwick sat and cleared his throat, “Dreams are just dreams . . . . they mean nothing.”

Geez Gap came into the faint moon light, “Yessssss, but they can seem so real,” he said with a grin.

Gap looked long and hard at the pig and then gave a slight snicker, “Why may I ask, are you covered in such a mess?”

“It’s a long story and one that I would rather not get into right now,” the pig answered lying back down. Gap came closer and his slow prowling steps gave Kezwick a chill.

“You have been gone for quite a while pig . . . . the yard is looking for answers,” the cat said staring off into the night, “the yard has been burdened of late by wolves and other uninvited guest’s.”

Kezwick looked up at Gap, “They were here in the yard?”“They were trying to get into the yard, the Horse Lords fled to

the north fence seeing as they want nothing to do with all of this business. The farmer was making loud bursts of sound into the air with that long tool of his and it seemed to work for now . . . . I imagine they will return.”

Kezwick laid his head back down and took a deep breath, he was so tired, now he could not sleep and after the last dream of his he did not know if he wanted to, “Well I am sorry to say you will not see the others for a long time.”

Gap smiled as the sound of his deep purr filled the night, “The yard is in danger and without the help of the Horse Lords so are we,”

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he then glared down at the pig with anger in his eyes, “I just hope Ward took the stone with him, it is his burden and his son that has caused this mess,” the cat concluded as he walked off into the night his tail swaying back and forth gently, “Sweet dreams pig.”

Kezwick lay still trying to relax his thoughts. He needed it clear for the morning as the task at hand would prove to be quite difficult. He dozed again as crickets sang their songs somewhere off in the darkness.

* * * * *

The sun was covered by cloud and a few animals moved about the yard. The pig opened his eyes and realized that he was laying half out of the shelter again. A feather covered dog was standing over him with a big grin, “Good morning my feathery friend,” Ber-nice announced.

Kezwick stood up sleepily and gave his groggy head a shake, “Good morning dear Bernice.”

Before the days tasks would begin, Bernice brought Kezwick into the old barn. It was time for the two of them to get cleaned up. High in the loft Geez Gap watched them with a close eye. They walked to the back of the barn where the cow troughs were. In the morning the troughs were always filled to the brim with fresh water so they both hopped in and splashed about in the water laughing the time away. A short while later the two of them were cleaner then they had been in a while and they hopped out of the trough shak-ing the water off vigorously, “Much better I must say,” Bernice said dripping slightly.

“You go on and let the yard know that we are here. Gap came to me through the night and he mentioned that the yard is looking for answers,” Kezwick said shaking some water off the end of his nose.

“Is everything alright Master Kezwick?” Bernice asked with con-


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—cern.

“There is something I must do before I join you, it is nothing to worry about,” the pig answered looking about suspiciously.

Bernice agreed and she left. The pig then slowly made his way over to the feeding troughs looking behind himself every so often. The cows were out in the fields so the stalls were empty. The pig followed down along the steel feeding troughs until he reached the far end near the furthest wall. Again he glanced around to see if any animals were about but he saw nothing. He then saw that the trough had a spot of rust in the shape of a circle. He cleared away some straw that was covering the wood planks underneath and then bumped his hoof on the furthest plank, it made a loose hollow sound. Kezwick quickly looked up and then back down again. He proceeded to pry up the plank and did without much trouble. Dead leaves filled the hole and he carefully pushed them to the side lick-ing his lips as he did. Something hard connected with his hoof and he pulled back for a moment, he then moved the last leaf and saw Ward’s burden . . . . it was the black stone.

“Goodness me,” Kezwick whispered softly, “the true stone of the war.”

The stone was smooth and round, not a single scratch was upon it. It was dark black and in the center was a glow of orange and gold. It seemed as though the glow was moving the way the East Pond rippled in the sun light. Kezwick stared at the glow and felt terror fill his body. Deep inside the stone was the spirit of Dark Sky and the pig was standing before it. Realizing that the stone was safe he quickly pushed all the dead leaves back over it. He then pushed the plank back over fumbling with it slightly. It fit neatly back into its spot and Kezwick then covered the floor with the loose straw. He took a deep breath and sat for a moment knowing he should get on to his next task but doubt filled his mind. The stone had made him feel doubt and a sudden fear was growing inside. He stood up look-

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ing about and made his way out of the stalls. He walked with his head down and then he made his way out of the old barn.

The stalls sat silent, the stone sat still under the plank were the pig had checked of its safe keeping and it was safe . . . . safe from evil hands. Soft footsteps filled the air of the stalls and a deep purr . . . . Gap walked out from his hiding spot behind the steel troughs.


The Mushrooms Edge

The strength ran strong through Ward and the others as theylooked upon the gap that ran down between the wetlandsand Water Tip Wood. The land was flat and covered

in a soft moss which would be a problem if any pursuers were on their tails. It was a choice that was to be made by Ward. Travel down through the gap clear of searching eyes, walk toward Water Tip Wood and venture downward amongst its trees or take an al-most impossible road traveling down the Wet Grass Edge of the Coldmare Wetlands. The lab stopped a moment and stared down through the gap, it was roughly three miles to the Mushroom Fields if that route was taken.

“The land is so complicated across the Coldmare,” wee Mischief said stepping close to Ward.

Pocket sniffed the air and then yelped in anger, “Bah!!!”“What is it Pocket?” Ward asked with sudden worry.“I can not smell a thing due to our unwanted guest, he overpow-

ers all other scents!” Pocket answered loudly staring at Odman.Ward made his way over to Donetrun who was standing a ways

ahead trying to listen to the wind, “Can you hear anything?”Donetrun shook his head with a look of distress, “The wind is

high today the only way I will hear it is if I fly,” the duck said look-ing up to the sky above the sun was clear as a single cloud drifted close by it.

Ward paused a moment and took a deep breath, “The only way we will travel down the gap is if the way is clear . . . . the only way

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—we will know is if you can take to the sky, are you up for it master duck?”

Donetrun spread his wings and any who had not yet seen his span stared in disbelief, “I feel strong as ever Master Ward and was only waiting for your command to scout ahead.”

Ward nodded and the duck was off with his wings giving a large gust of wind. They stood together as they watched Donetrun vanish after a few moments. Then in silence they all waited, not a word was said until the duck came into view a short while later.

“There he is!!” wee Mischief blurted out suddenly.The duck landed smoothly beside Ward and tucked in his wings,

“The way is clear and the wind whispered of no danger surrounding,” Donetrun said trying to catch his breath.

Ward looked back at the others and then back to the duck, “Then we will walk the gap as quick as we can, if we are fast enough we may be able to make it to the mushrooms edge by sundown.”

The others agreed with Ward’s decision and at that, they were off. Ward led the way with Mischief close by while the others spread back single file. The moss under their feet was soft and almost seemed to bounce with each step. Once again Mischief stuck close to Ward as questions rolled around in his head.

“We are close to the Dead Trees are we not?” he asked looking back to see how close the others were.

Ward looked down at the wee dog and then straight ahead again, “Yes.”

The Dead Trees was a long stretch of land that was to the far south west. It stood beyond the Coldmare Wetlands and hugged the bank of the river after the turn at Water Tip. Many years ago be-fore the Silver Side war there was a great flood and hard rain fell for many days. The Coldmare overflowed and the waters waterlogged a large amount of land to the south. A forest flourished there and when the river flooded it all the trees died, they became grey and

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The Mushrooms Edge—

twisted with stringy limbs that stuck high in the air like wire. All the animals that lived there died also and many say that the skel-etons that remained walk among the swampy ground at night.

“We should steer clear of them Master Ward, I have heard many a tale concerning that land and I do not need to witness it,” Mischief said almost walking on Ward’s feet.

“We need not walk through the wetlands nor the Dead Trees wee Mischief but we will see the wetlands to our right quite soon,” Ward answered stepping to the side slightly, “maybe we may catch a glimpse of the skeletons which wander about.”

There was a snicker behind them and Mischief glanced back with an angry stare, Donetrun pretended that he had heard nothing and the company carried on. The moss thickened and made each step difficult for all. Once in a while Donetrun would take to the sky and fly low just to get a brake from the spongy moss. To the east was a long green mass stretching for miles which was Water Tip Wood, a forest of good animals and peaceful trees and to the west was the Coldmare Wetlands which were clear to see now, a swampy mess of mud, water and stringy swamp grass. Large ugly weeds of unknown origin swayed high above the slimy water. No animal heavier than a Nat could cross the wetlands without sinking to their death.

The moss now became wetter with each step as the swamp was near. It gushed and made soft squishing sounds as they walked along. Ward then stopped and shut his eyes, Mischief quickly turned to the others hissing at them to stop. Pocket brought up the rear as he glanced backward sniffing the air. Ward had a look of worry across his face and Mischief watched with question and fear. The lab’s eyes then opened quickly and he looked down at wee Mischief, “They are coming . . . . run along then, quickly!!!!!”

The band all jumped at the sudden rise in Ward’s voice and they ran. It was hard to run with agility atop the spongy moss. Odman fell numerous times because of his stubby legs and fell behind as

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—Pocket ripped passed him hopping mightily. The skunk then fell again flat on his face as the wet moss blinded his sight. The others were all well ahead of him now. Odman rubbed at his eyes as his sight came clear he then looked back the way they had come and saw four grey wolves coming directly toward him, their eyes were dark and glowing as drool flew out of the corners of there mouths. The skunk scrabbled trying to get to his feet; if he could turn his backend toward them he might be able to spray his stench. The wolves were coming too fast and he could not get good footing on the moss so he lay there limply when out of nowhere Pocket scooped him up over his head and on to his back.

“Hang On!!!!!!!!” the rabbit yelled taking off like a spring. Od-man tumbled slightly but kept his grip while the air lashed at this face.

The grey wolves of Silver Side had made it across the Coldmare and were hot on Ward’s trail. They were fast and smart, agile and strong, and they wanted the return of Dark Sky more then anything. One of the four wolves led the way and was the biggest of the bunch. His back and shoulders were twice the size of Ward’s and Ward was a pretty big dog. The other three were not quite as big as the leader but were still bigger than Ward, the band was clearly no match for the grey wolves . . . . only one could possibly stand up to them but he was not around and even then he would most likely fall victim to the grey wolves of Silver Side Wood.

“I am slipping lord rabbit,” Odman groaned as Pocket hopped all about due to the uneven moss. The rabbit did not answer but kept moving ahead. The others were not far off and he was gaining on them as were the wolves.

“Goodness me,” whispered Odman and then he was gone. This time Pocket could not turn back as it would be his death. He lunged forward and soon caught up to the others.

Odman tumbled along the moss for a few paces and then came

- 17� -

to a gushing stop. He slowly looked up as swampy water dripped from his face. Standing over him were the four wolves with deep growls at the backs of their throats. Odman just smiled and swal-lowed hard. The largest wolf brought his snout down close to the skunk as the wiry bristles tickled Odman’s face.

“You stink,” the wolf said in a raspy voice, the others laughed out loud as he continued, “those animals.........friends of yours they are?”

Odman looked down at the moss shaking his head not saying a word. The wolf took a deep breath and then snarled loudly causing Odman to tuck his tail between his back legs, “I will ask once more my smelly friend and if you do not answer truthfully then we may have to use different methods,” the large leader said, “where are your friends off to?”

Odman looked up at the grey wolves and licked away the swampy water that hung off his nose . . . .

Pocket was now a pace behind the group and Ward glanced back with a look of worry. The running had slowed as the wolves were not in sight for some reason. Ward veered to the left and ran for a thick bunch of bushes that lined some of the Water Tip Wood. Surely he knew that the grey wolves would sniff them out but the band needed to catch their breath and it seemed as though the wolves were no longer following. The lab stepped into some of the thicker bushes and sat breathing in and out heavily, trees stood high up a half a mile to the east with bright green tops. Wee Mischief walked in followed by Pocket, Donetrun was high in the air circling about checking on the grey wolf situation.

“We should not stay here Master Ward, the wolves will find us,”Mischief said looking about nervously.

Ward looked at Pocket and the rabbit lowered his head, “He fell . . . . ”

“It was meant to be lord rabbit, only I wonder if we should go


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—back for him,” Ward answered feeling upset at the skunk’s misfor-tune.

“If one of us is to go to Odman’s aid it will be only I,” Pocketretorted.

Ward shook his head after thinking a moment, “We set out for one reason only and all of you came along risking your own necks, we will continue our path as we should,” he said getting to his feet, “the skunk can look after himself, he always has.”

Ward then walked out of the bushes and made his way back over to the moss covered ground. The Mushroom Fields were not far off now as Ward, Pocket and Mischief walked side by side while the sun hung at high noon over their heads. Donetrun then suddenly landed behind them panting and gasping, “The wolves have taken Odman the skunk.”

Ward glanced at Pocket and then straight ahead, “It is not our concern as of now.”

Donetrun with confusion watched as they continued ahead. He then caught up to them and the band was off again. Not many ques-tions or comments were discussed as the gap between them and the Mushroom Fields became smaller and smaller. All of the animals would take their turns glancing back in concern of the wolves com-ing up from behind but they would not see another wolf for a while. Ward paused and glared ahead as a smile stretched across his face.

“There . . . . ” he whispered as the others barely heard him, “The Mushroom Fields of the south.”

They all looked ahead and saw nothing but a blurred brown and grey mass that blanketed the land for miles in both directions. The Mushroom Fields were almost as long as Water Tip Wood but not quite. The far-east tip of the mushrooms reached almost to the stones of the Greens and the southern most part was where the mushrooms had grown around the Lonely Pond. Mother Nature was the only one that the Lonely Pond would allow to swim in its waters, any

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who did without permission fell victim to the emotion of the pond. Not many entered the Mushroom Fields as a large number of the mushrooms were poisonous, not to the touch, they were only deadly if eaten but this kept many away. At the very center of the miles and miles of mushrooms were four hills that sat in a wide circle, these were the Four Hills of the Mushroom Fields and inside the circle of hills was where one would find Mother Nature. The hills were very beautiful with long flowing slopes that were covered in fresh flowers and the land dipped in if one were to come down one of the hills into the center. Other than Mother Nature herself only peaceful animals were allowed within the Mushroom Fields, it was the way she wanted it and she did her best to keep it that way.

“I see only a big mass of grey and brown Master Ward,” wee Mischief said straining his eyes.

Ward looked down at Mischief and then gave a small grunt of a laugh, “You will see it up close soon.”

Pocket sniffed at the air and hopped slightly ahead of the oth-ers looking about in wonder. Donetrun walked up to Ward and Mischief as they all stared at the rabbit, “What is it lord rabbit?” Donetrun asked in a low tone.

“There is a strange smell in the air, nothing that I recognize,” Pocket answered still sniffing with his nose high in the air. Ward could smell something different too that had not been there a mo-ment ago, something was close by.

“Stay out of the sky Donetrun for all we know it could be more birds of prey, try using your sharp hearing Pocket,” Ward ordered as the rabbit was now even further ahead.

The duck and two dogs leaned down low as the rabbit had his ears high in the air standing up on his hind legs. He could hear something, a strange shuffling noise as though countless numbers of small feet were moving at a fast pace. Pocket motioned for the oth-ers to come close to him as the sound was becoming louder.


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—“Did you hear something Pocket?” Ward asked keeping his voice

low. “You need not whisper lord lab, what is coming we need not

fear,” Pocket said taking a seat upon the moss.Before another word was spoken a large mass of mice began to

cross their path, the mice did not notice the band at first and all just continued to travel talking about events that could not be under-stood they all talked at once. Mischief smiled as he watched closely, he had only seen the odd mouse that hides in the old barn every so often and most of the time Gap or Geez Jr. would catch them in the end. Pocket was watching with a grin as Ward and Donetrun looked on.

It would be almost impossible to count how many mice were streaming by. Some were almost too small to see while others were almost as large as a kitten. The odd one had a small bundle tied to his back made up of a fresh leaf that was tied tight with thick field grass. Mice never moved in numbers this large and it seemed strange to the band the direction in which they were headed. Finally a couple of smaller mice noticed the band and squealed in fright jumping behind some of the much larger mice. There was a loud deep squeal and the mass abruptly came to a halt. A large mouse stepped in front of all the others staring up at the band which was much larger then he. Then a second mouse stepped forward, he was skinny and walked with a hunch. Upon his face were thick glasses that sat at the very tip of his nose held on by his thick black whiskers, “Please do us no harm,” the hunched mouse said in a tiny voice as the larger mouse folded his arms.

Ward stepped forward with a look of kindness, “Your numbers are quite large little mouse and much danger plagues these lands.”

The large mouse just gave a grunt and the muscles in his little arms twitched. The smaller mouse cleared his throat and adjusted his glasses, “We have been thrown out of our home and now search

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far for a new one.” The band all looked at one another and then back to the mass of

mice, “Who threw you out of your home and why?” inquired Ward as he sat down listening.

“The mice have always lived amongst the rats in the Deep Gully to the far north east. You can find mice all across this great land but our largest numbers lived and played there. In the last while many whispers spread across the gully of changes and when our backs were turned the rats attacked us within the depths of the gully, many mice died. We fled in all directions and many were lost, some even passed over the Old Bridge into Silver Side Wood in the panic, I fear they will never come out of there again. We do not understand the logic of the rats attack on us but now we venture south in search of a more peaceful home . . . . many, many mice died crossing the Swift . . . . some were my close friends, and then as we passed through the High Lands over half of our sons and daughters were taken by the birds of prey. Our numbers are small now but we press on in hopes of a better land.” the mouse concluded lowering his head.

Mischief sniffed and wiped a tear away in hopes no one had no-ticed. Many of the mice were crying loudly as others urged to keep moving. Fear gripped them and Ward could see it in their eyes. The lab turned to the others with a look of worry, “This means only one thing,” he whispered low as they listened intently, “shadow weasels, wolves of Silver Side, and now the rats of the Deep gully . . . . they mean to find the stone and free Dark Sky . . . . they mean to go to war again.”

The band was silent Donetrun looked to the ground and then back to Ward. Ward’s face was full of worry and sorrow, “they mean to kill my son and take the stone . . . . what can such a small band of animals do . . . . against such foil creatures,” Ward said as he dropped his head low.


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—Donetrun reached out with his wing and lifted Wards head see-

ing tears stream down his face, “we can save your son..we can save him together,” the duck said as he embraced his old friend.

The band felt a glimmer of hope as it sat in the balance. They would push onward to the Mushroom Fields together and Ward got the others to agree that the mice of Deep Gully could come along and find answers there. Mother Nature would know what to do. Ward would also see her, for the first time, and same with the others, nothing would stand in their way. From this point to the mush-rooms edge time would only tell what would happen next. Only one thing was upon the lab’s thoughts . . . . to see his son again, to hold his son again, to tell him that he loved him. Ward would need the help of the band if it were to come true.

When they reached the mushrooms edge, Ward stopped and sat closing his eyes. A moment later he opened them and got to his feet, Mischief sat close by and he looked up at the lab, “Was that her Master Ward, Mother of all?”

Ward looked straight ahead and simply nodded. He then looked at the band as the mice stood all around them in a half circle, “We go to her now,” Ward said simply and they all followed as he began to make his way into the Mushroom Fields.

Donetrun quickly stepped ahead of all the others up to Wards side, “What did she say master lab, what did she ask you?” the duck questioned.

“Where the other two stones are . . . . and if the one is safe,” Ward answered.

The band continued into the Mushroom Fields as the sun fell fast in the north until dark would cover all again.

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Convincing the Warthog

KEZWICK walked out the front door of the old barn as the sun was dimly clouded. The yard was in frenzy as animals scurried about. Bernice was off by the farm house sur-

rounded by a few yard animals, it was not clear what was being said but the pig had a pretty good idea. He walked over to his shelter and then looked up at an old friend, “Hello large oak my friend it has been a while since our last conversation.”

The ground became warm all around the pig and the tree moaned softly into the surrounding air, its limbs swayed gently. Kezwick listened intently and then smiled brightly, “Yes I have missed you also.”

The oak then went onto explain how he had heard gossip of wolves that had been outside the fields. The oak mentioned of more shadows rummaging around the yard also. The tree thought that it was only the cats but it was too dark to tell, they always managed to stay out of any light.

“I hope that the yard can remain safe,” the pig said, “I’m sure the farmer will keep it that way and I still think that the Horse Lords would defend us at the last minute.”

After a little more yard news was soaked up by Kezwick he saidgood-bye to the large oak for the time being. The ground became cold once again as Kezwick made his way over to the animals that were chatting with Bernice. As he got closer it almost seemed as though they were arguing and Kezwick quickened his pace.

“Hey!!!” Kezwick yelled interrupting the group, “do not burden

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—dear Bernice after what she has been through, if you have questions you can now direct them toward me!”

The rooster paused for a moment and then turned toward the pig along with Geez Jr., the others walked away in different directions without a word, the rooster was the first to speak up, “I am one of the higher ranking of the yard and we have been threatened numerous times since you had left. Ward and his son are to blame! We need to speak with him about how he will fix this dilemma he has burdened us with!!” he said sticking his chest out.

“Ward is gone and will not return . . . . anytime soon that is,” Kezwick answered, “And even if he were here, he would not have to answer to any of you!”

The rooster stuck his face close to the pigs but Kezwick would not even flinch. Some of the hens were there now backing up the rooster and Geez Jr. was also closing in, they were surrounding the pig.

“Leave him be!!” Bernice yelled out.“Myyyy brother thinks you are allllll in cahoots, that they will

never return to the yard and let it fall into evil handssssss,” Jr. said as he walked back and froth with his back high, “my brother will decide your fate now pig . . . . ” Jr. was now making straight for the Kezwick.

“AWAY WITH ALL OF YOU!!!!!” a low sharp voice yelled from the direction of the barn, “anger is swelling within me over all this bickering so go to where ever it is you go . . . . now!” the voice concluded.

The group split apart quickly as Geez Jr. ran the fastest with his tail between his legs. Kezwick and Bernice only remained. They both were speechless staring at the old barn. Bernice turned and nodded at the pig; she then walked over to where Kezwick’s shelter was and lay in front of it. The pig knew what to do; he only had to find the courage to do it. He sucked in a deep breath and blew it out,

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he then marched toward the old barn trying not to stumble along the way. He stopped at the front door and looked back a moment. There were eyes all about the yard watching him, waiting for his next move and he made it then, he slowly entered.

The far left corner of the old barn was always very stuffy and hard to breathe in. There was a stench that lingered in the air com-ing from the one that inhabited the left corner and it was always dark. There was just one thin line of light that snuck through a hole in the ceiling and the dust floated through it too quick to count. The pig moved into the darkness with caution as planks under his feet cracked and creaked with each step. There was a sudden snuff and clouds of dust burst into the thin line light then vanishing consumed by the darkness. Kezwick stopped and sat, he was trembling with fear and did not what to take another step; he then cleared his throat but said nothing.

A louder snuff echoed through the barn and the dust seemed to make Kezwick’s throat tickle. The pig cleared his throat again a little louder, he then whispered weakly, “Hello.”

No answer came, only some movement and a grunt that caused the pig to jump. Kezwick stood up trying to find courage. He was starting to think that this was all a bad idea. He turned and then slowly proceeded to walk back to the front door, “Kin of Gezwick,” said a deep hard voice.

Kezwick stopped dead in his tracks but remained facing toward the way out, he then sat down and took a deep breath., “Indeed I am,” he answered in a shaky voice.

Sudden movement littered the stuffy air of the old barn again, it sounded as though the animal was getting to his feet. There were a few louder grunts and then the sound of heavy hooves coming down on the wood floor. Kezwick still looked toward the exit and felt a chill travel all the way up his spin but he stayed where he was.

“You’re much bigger then your father was,” the deep voice said,

Convincing the Warthog—

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—“look me in the eye kin.”

Kezwick stood firm and slowly turned back toward the darkness. He then saw a shadowy figure in the thin line of light coming from the ceiling. A large face that was hard to make out looked in the pigs direction, it was thick with hair and one glimmering eye was present in the light. Large dirty white tusks were visible and some of the animals mouth. It stared at Kezwick and made small groan-ing noises almost as though it was having trouble breathing, the pig was unable to tell the full size of the beast but what was visible was as large as the stories told.

“You know as well as any that I wish not to be disturbed,” the deep voice groaned from the light, “you come not free of fear kin, but you come . . . . someone sent you kin, tell me, who was it?”

Kezwick nervously cleared his throat and then looked into theglimmering eye again, “Mezamir the Wise,” he mumbled.

Suddenly the animal was gone from the light and by the sound of his steps it was heading back to the far dark corner, “I know how you feel about intruders but I live in the yard also and I know of how great you are lord Marvel . . . . Marvel the Great Warthog,” the pig said trying to sound wiser then he was.

There was a far off grunt and then nothing for a moment, “Fool-ish old owl he is kin, I know of your endeavors and wish not to be involved,” the warthog retorted, “this uprising can not be helped kin, it is only a matter of time and I am too old for ventures, I have al-ready done my part.”

“The owl told us that we could not succeed without you, he toldus . . . . ”

“I DON’T CARE KIN!” Marvel yelled causing the little pig to jump in fright, “I cannot help you or any of the others that are now devoted to such a fools venture!”

Kezwick was quiet, he tried to swallow his anger as his face twitched with it, “how can you say such a thing when you are part of

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the yard, when you are part of it’s history?”The warthog did not answer, only heavy breathing filled the air

and clouds outside caused the thin line of light to fade. Kezwick turned again and hung his head low; he was at a loss and felt as though he had failed Master Ward. He made his way toward the front door. When he reached it, he turned and looked back into the darkness, “I have no clear memories of my father but I was told that he had died in the Silver Side War, mother told me that he was a great animal and that he was very loving and loyal . . . . its hard to believe that the two of you were such good friends.”

Before Kezwick could slip out the door entirely Marvel spoke up loudly, “How do you know we were even friends kin, what is it that makes you so sure?”

“I believe what the wise owl told me, I thought maybe you could be convinced, that maybe, I would possibly remind you of my father,” Kezwick said pushing the door open with his head, he went out into the yard again, the sun was falling fast and the day was cooling down. Bernice was still by his shelter and she looked up at him with a look of worry, the pig just shrugged.

Bernice made her way over to Kezwick and gave him a warm smile trying to lighten his spirits, “It is meant to be Kezwick, you were only sent to try and convince the warthog; there were no guar-antees.”

Kezwick felt as though he had failed. He glanced back in hopes of seeing Marvel step out into the light of the late afternoon but the half open door was the only thing he saw. Some of the other yard animals were about but they just passed by the two of them without a word.

“I must go alone then,” the pig said suddenly, “when the sun rises in the morning I will head for High Over Flat and meet with the others.”

Bernice’s face swelled with worry and she swallowed hard, “You


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—can’t go alone master pig it is to dangerous,” she said with a shaky voice.

“Ward needs to know that everything is well and if he is unaware of what is happening at the yard his mind will be here and not on what it is he is doing,” the pig explained as he started to make his way over to his shelter, “I must reach the High Over Flat and carry out the rest of my orders.”

Bernice followed close behind Kezwick pleading for him to think it over, but the pig had made up his mind. Bernice began to suggest that she could come along but before she could finish, the pig spoke up, “Ward would not like that, and he would be very upset. He needs you here, you’re the only sensible one of what remains.”

Bernice looked off toward the east fields and breathed out a deep moan. The pain was still too near for her and she tried with all her might to hold back tears. She though only of Ward and their son nothing, else burdened her thought, there was other thoughts, but none compared to the two animals she loved most.

“The choice is up to you master pig. I’m sure come morning you will make the right one,” she said as a single tear dripped to the ground below, “I ask only when you come across the path of the ones I love make sure to remind them of that.”

Kezwick nodded and then sat softly at the door to his shelter, “It was an honour to have traveled in your presence my dear Bernice.”

The two of them said their good-byes early as Bernice made her way back to the old barn to catch some sleep. Kezwick would have trouble sleeping. The band was on his mind as was Marvel and the stone. A little later the pig wandered around to the front of the farm house to find a pile of food waiting for him. The farmer must have realized that he was about and Kezwick ate all that had been left. It would give him the much needed strength to start off alone tomor-row. Tomorrow . . . . alone . . . . the thought scared the pig and he wished he had Ward there to comfort his fear.

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After the pig finished off the cabbage, soggy bread and old tea bags he stumbled back to the shelter with a full belly. The sun was now falling and the yard was becoming still. Just the odd yard ani-mal walked about cautiously as though they were worried. Kezwick did not blame them; they had all the reason in the world to worry. The pig lay down and rested his head upon his folded front legs the large oak above him swayed gently in the evening breeze which had a strong smell of the cool season. Sleep began to pull at his eyelids; he did not fight for sleep is what he would need for the morning.

The yard was all around Kezwick but no animals were about. In some strange way the yard looked different. He glanced around and then gasped in shock. In the spot where the large oak had sat for so many decades was now but only an old rotted stump. Kezwick cringed at the sight and wondered when and why the tree had been cut down. As he pondered he began to realize this was one of the strange dreams he had been having, he was getting use to it. He began to walk around the yard which seemed to be getting darker with each step. Fear grew again, like other dreams he had had there was that deep apprehension that dwelled inside causing him to stop and cover his eyes.

The surroundings were now changing quickly and things were becoming hard to recognize. Fire suddenly shot up all around as he saw the old barn burning and he brought his hove up to his mouth watching in terror. The farm house was also burning but still no animals were anywhere to be found. The pig tried to yell out but again he had no voice, he covered his eyes shielding them from the flashes of fire that danced all about. Then a long deep howl pierced the air and made the pig shake in terror. The howl was not far off and Kezwick looked around. His own deep breath was all he heard now. It echoed through the night as he looked around trying to spot movement. The fire had grown even more now and had formed a circle around the pig. An animal of some kind was coming into


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—focus outside the spreading fire. It walked slowly pausing every so often. Kezwick watched as the shadow moved and then it leaped suddenly forward and burst through the flames. The pig jumped in fright and then realized what it was. An enormous black wolf with bright silver strips lining his sides stood not but a few paces from Kezwick. The pig tried to yell out but couldn’t. The wolf hissed as drool slopped from his grinding jaws. Its teeth were stained red and the hair on its back stood on end.

“A new day will dawn pig!” the wolf growled in an earth shaking voice.

Kezwick stared unable to answer. Fire flickered in the eyes of the wolf and it reminded the pig of the glowing light he had seen inside the stone. Then it dawned on him, the same glow . . . . the wolf that stood before him was not any ordinary wolf, it was the all mighty Dark Sky.

“The yard will burn as you see it now!!” the wolf screamed as heglared at Kezwick.

Unable to speak, the pig smiled and then shook his head. He knew that the wolf was still safely trapped within the black stone. The pig got to his feet and turned to walk away but the fire was all around trapping him within. Dark Sky cackled loudly and then his stare seemed to burn the very skin of the pig. Kezwick turned to see Dark Sky lunging toward him but the pig sat calmly. Out of the fire burst the unicorn at full speed scooping up the pig over his neck just avoiding the wolf and exiting out of the circle of fire unharmed.

The pig held on as the unicorn continued to gallop at high speeds. The air was cold and thick with mist now and a distant howl of anger filled the air behind them. The pace then slowed and the unicorn came to a stop. It was out of breath and gasped at the thick night air. Kezwick still sat atop the beast as it kicked at the grassy mud below. He wanted to thank it but still he could not speak. The unicorn set Kezwick down and walked a little ways ahead of

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him, it turned toward the pig and then motioned for him to follow. Kezwick wanted to ask why and where but instead, without fear he began to follow. They walked along cold wet grass as the thick mist drifted about their ankles. Every so often Kezwick would glance up at the mighty animal he walked beside, stare for a moment and then look away again. The ground then started to angle upward and the mist swirled about in large patches. They were climbing a hill and just as Kezwick realized that fact, they stood at the edge of the very top. Other hills were all around the land before them spreading as far as the eye could see and a large mass of trees sat dormant farther ahead stretching out to what seemed forever. The pig only stared at the massive wilderness in front of the hills edge they stood upon. He then looked to the unicorn which was already looking down at him. It smiled and motioned for Kezwick to go toward the large forest below. The pig hesitated and then fear struck. He could not move for only a shear drop off was the next step and he would surely fall . . . . forever.

The unicorn suddenly raised its front legs high in the air and came down again, “Come to me,” it said loudly and then leaped off the edge. Kezwick tried to yell out but could not; he stepped to the edge as small bits of earth fell from beneath him. He looked out into the dark land ahead and closed his eyes.

“I will wait . . . . time is all I have . . . . ” A voice whispered in the wind as Kezwick stepped off the edge.

Darkness was what the pig saw as his eyes flew open. Night was still deep and a light fog drifted along the ground of the yard. Kez-wick rubbed his eyes and struggled to his feet. He noticed a shadow standing off in the dark by the large oak, “who are you, speak up then!” he whispered loudly.

“Lower your whisper kin,” a deep voice answered, the voice ofMarvel, “you need not fear all shadows.”

Kezwick paused a moment and then stepped closer to the mas-


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—sive beast. The warthog stood in the dark shadows of the night, but the pig could see that the animal was as big as he had heard maybe even a little bigger. The moon and stars were covered by cloud so it was hard to tell how much of the night had already passed. The pig sat on the other side of the large oak and peeked over at Marvel who was staring off toward the south.

“It seems strange for you to be out of the old barn seeing as you never come out of it . . . . ever,” Kezwick said seeming to have no fear.

The warthog was quiet a moment and then took a deep breath releasing it slowly, “I had a late evening visitor, after a long talk I could not sleep so I chose to come out into the night air . . . . I have not breathed night air this freely for quite some time.”

Kezwick stifled a laugh and then looked at the warthog, “You do not fool me with your answer of why you leave the confinement of the old barn, you came out for other reasons.”

“You have chosen a dangerous path kin, one that I know is too dangerous for the likes of you. Your father was my friend yes but you are nothing like your father. His folly was that he made decisions without thinking them through first this was why your father never came back to the yard after the war,” Marvel took a shaky breath and then continued, “You are seemingly smarter in that way kin, which means that if you decide to do what you plan to do then you make a decision as your father would. If you think it through you may find that you are acting without regard.”

Kezwick thought for a moment and then answered, “You are right lord Marvel, I am not my father but I have made my decision and I am not going to let down Master Ward, he needs me and I will go to him with or without you.”

Marvel’s eyes gleamed with a dark flash of light that was aged with wisdom. He finally looked upon the pig, “Danger breaths it’s foul air and it will be upon us,” he said with deep sorrow. The wart-

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hog then got to his feet and started toward the old barn. Kezwick sat and watched the one thing walk away that was part of his task. Just before Marvel entered the front doors that sat ajar the warthog turned and looked to the pig off in the foggy darkness; “Prepare yourself as of now, I am taking you to the High Over Flat before dawn,” and into the barn he vanished.


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When All Went Dark

KEZWICK the pig of the yard stood alone in the fog which was nowletting up. Dawn was not far off and the warthog would come out ready toproceed at any moment.

The pig looked around the yard knowing deep inside that he may never see it again. He pondered, wondering if he should go and wish Bernice well but he would never get the chance. The sound of a door closing echoed quietly across the yard. Kezwick looked behind himself toward the old barn and saw Marvel making his way toward him. The warthog looked around suspiciously and trotted along sur-prising light. There was a leather pouch wrapped around his neck tied up with thick rope the thick hair around his chin slightly hid the pouch.

“Dawn is upon us kin, we must move quickly to the east fence. Beyond that we travel to the Coldmare,” Marvel paused a moment looking around, he then continued in a lower voice, “we travel to the Coldmare and then go south to the bridge crossing it, we then venture east and climb up to the High Over Flat.”

Kezwick nodded and swallowed hard. The warthog moved quickly for his size as he headed to the fields that stretched to the east. Kezwick remembered not too long ago when he and Ward had taken the same route.

Marvel moved without speaking. He glanced about and then walked cautiously out of the yard and into the fields. The pig fol-lowed close behind looking back every so often to see if he could catch a glimpse of Bernice waving good-bye but only the yard itself

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—sat still in the dawning morning light.

“Quicker kin, the sun is on the eve of rising,” the warthog said as he trampled into the medium high grass that was soaked in dew. The cool season was on the verge and the morning air was full of cold drizzle. Kezwick already showed signs of frustration; he still disliked the feel of wetness upon him.

“What is it you bring along lord Marvel?” the pig asked breaking the eerie silence.

Marvel glared back and then forward again, “Food and what not,” he said simply as small droplets of water dripped from the ends of his tusks.

Kezwick snuffed with anger and kept pace with the warthog. Mud was now mixed into the wet grass and it gushed under their hooves. Kezwick noticed large tracks left from the Horse Lords run-ning about and wondered if the colt that had helped him and Ward was around. The horse lords did not run at this time in the morning but they would be out soon. Marvel stopped and looked around as the sunlight illuminated the fog. Small droplets of mist drifted around and the sun caused them to glisten like tiny diamonds.

“Lower your stance kin,” Marvel demanded as he crouched to the wet muddy earth.

Without an answer the pig lowered himself avoiding putting his chin in the mud. At that moment loud thumps passed further ahead and Marvel eyed the fog, “It is a scout for the Horse Lords.....keeping watch on the fields,” the warthog said, “we must avoid them seeing us leave, this fog will help if it lasts.”

The pig then whispered back, “Why must we avoid the Horse Lords they are our friends, are they not?”

“Their beliefs are changing. They are looking out for themselves and would rather not see any yard animals leaving the borders of the yard. If we are seen outside the yard enemies may see it as a sign that we are involved,” Marvel explained as the pig listened looking at the

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fog drifting softly by, “The Horse Lords do not want any suspicion which could led to unwelcome guests.”

Marvel was up and moving again. The pace was even quicker and Kezwick stumbled every so often trying to keep up. They came across the small hillsthat dotted the fields and many times found themselves sliding as they came down the other side. Mud and dampness covered them, and Kezwick snickered as he remembered when he and Bernice had had there little mishap. In between two larger hills, Marvel searched around the fog as it was beginning to break up. He had a look as though he was lost but it was hard to venture a straight line in the thick mess.

“We are off our track east . . . . come along kin,” he said as he changed direction just a touch. They tripped and stumbled as their hooves caught on the base of the odd hill. It was like a long trench that they moved along swiftly and already the pig felt his legs tin-gling.

The fog was now in patches and fading fast. It floated by like clouds that had fallen to the ground and after a while the fog was behind them. Marvel stopped at the edge of the thin trench and peeked over the side out into the fields to the east. Nothing but flat wet grass stretched for miles, so he leapt out of the trench and pushed forward. The pig struggled out and followed as fast as he could with what energy he had.

In the distance, a familiar sound traveled upon the air. Deep thumps rattled the earth and it seemed to vibrate up the legs of the two animals, “Horse Lords, quick, back to the trench!” Marvel yelped turning and almost running over Kezwick. Again without question the pig followed tumbling back into the small trench. They peeked over the edge and saw the Horse Lords running together toward the south.

“The morning run,” the pig whispered, “that’s all.”Marvel shook his head and watched carefully, “Their pattern is

When All Went Dark—

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—different and their steps are falling with caution, they are watching the fields and fear is in the air,” the warthog said as he waited and watched, “one horse runs further ahead of the rest serving as a scout. The rest follow in the rear sticking close to one another with no stragglers it’s a way of hiding their numbers.”

“How do you know this lord Marvel?” Kezwick asked eyeing the moving horses.

Marvel looked into the pigs eyes with worry, “It was an old rou-tine they used on the verge of war.”

They both went silent and watched as the last of the Horse Lords passed. Marvel had been right, not a single straggler came afterwards.

“Now is our chance, they will circle around the fields which leaves us time to move across but we must move with haste kin,” the warthog said as he leaped over the side and was off. Kezwick had a sudden burst of energy and he followed Marvel closely. Small hills and dips littered the fields as they pushed on, Marvel would glance down at the slightly hidden pouch around his neck and Kezwick found he was glancing back to see if the horses were coming around again.

Time passed and the pig felt his legs beginning to tire. The day was at half and the air was cold. The fence was not far now, and Marvel moved with precise steps as though he had traveled the land enough times to know it better then any other. The sun was dim. Thick cloud covered the sky and the smell of stormy weather seemed to drift about in the air. The grass further out in the fields was longer and it began to sway gently as a small breeze picked up adding to the chill. Marvel took a quick turn and walked cautiously in between two small hills that were covered in thick bunches of crab grass, Kezwick followed.

The warthog sat down pulling the pouch off his neck and opened it slightly. Old bread and potato smell came clear and the pig’s mouth

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began to water. There was also some old tea bags and apple skins.“Eat up kin but do not be greedy we still have a ways to go,”

Marvel said as he started at the food.They ate quick leaving some for later. A small burst of strength

renewed the pig’s body and he belched quite loud, “Pardon me lord warthog.”

“Indeed kin, try not to attract attention on us,” Marvel said as he rolled his pouch shut and looped it carefully around his neck again. “We make for the fence now and pass through the hole, we then travel by night to the Coldmare and only there will we rest. When morning comes we head south to the Swift around the bend in the river.”

Kezwick simply nodded. Out from the spot amongst the hills they came and they were off again. Off in the distance behind them, the rumble of hooves came clear and Kezwick stopped and looked back.

“Come along kin,” Marvel yelled from further ahead, “they won’t scout out to this point, at least not yet.”

The pig followed and far off in the midday sun Kezwick saw a familiar sight. The fence of the fields stretched its long arms out of sight far to the south and the north. The pace of both animals quickened at the sight and it came closer with each step. After a long stretch of wide open flatter grass they were standing at the tall weed covered fence’s edge.

The sun was falling in the north and Marvel began to search for the hole in the fence, the warthog found it much quicker than Mas-ter Ward had and seemed as though he knew right where to look. Marvel eyed the hole and sniffed the edge of it. He hummed and hawed and then without another word, he slipped through. Kez-wick paused a moment remembering when the shadows had almost pulled Master Ward back through and the terror he felt. “Quickly now kin, the sun falls fast,” Marvel said with impatient anger.


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—The pig jumped slightly and was then through the hole in the

fence himself. The plant life on the other side looked different from the last time the pig had seen it. The buds were long gone and the fresh green colour was now a dull brownish green. Different va-rieties of grass, weeds and wild flowers were now wilting with the changing weather. Marvel smelled the air and stayed low in the semi high weeds.

“Something has been about these lands, smells that don’t belong here are drifting about,” the warthog said as he started forward. Kez-wick looked up in the sky and saw that the sun was now close to the edge of dark bush and soon the land would be covered in darkness once again. It was about a mile and a half to the Coldmare and it would still be dark when they got there if they moved fast enough.

They trudged along the dry weeds and they crunched under their hooves. Small white moths flew up out of the entangled grasses with each step. Kezwick shoed those away swinging his head about, Marvel stayed focused on what was ahead of them but it was becom-ing difficult with the lack of sunlight and the height that the weeds were reaching at this point. Then the warthog stopped and closed his eyes for a moment. Kezwick sat and looked at Marvel with con-fusion and then his eyes opened again he sniffed the air and then continued. The sun was only half a circle now and an orange glow covered the swaying weeds around them. The small white moths danced about continually with each step and their little wings be-came transparent in the remaining light. Marvel huffed and puffed as he weaved through the tall brown weeds. Kezwick kept a close eye wanting to ask questions . . . . but not right now.

Darkness had now fallen, a sound was becoming clear fur-ther ahead, a sound that the pig could remember clear as any yard noise . . . . the sound of running water was already very strong; Marvel looked back at Kezwick with a stern face. “The Coldmare is near kin, stay close in case of trouble ahead.”

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The pig got up beside Marvel and the warthog glared at him with an unfriendly stare. Kezwick just smiled best he could and looked ahead. Far off along with the sound of the raging river there was a rumble and the smell of rain was very strong, “A storm is com-ing lord Marvel maybe we should find shelter,” the pig said as they continued.

“There is no shelter around us kin, we walk to the Coldmare tonight whether rain, snow or hail,” the warthog answered simply and that they did.

The rain drops were hard and big. They hit the two of them hard like small rocks and even Marvel was grumbling at its fury. Light-ning flashed violently lighting up the sky almost as bright as day. Thunder rumbled and crashed ringing their ears with each boom. The wind made the tall weeds lash out slapping against the skin of the animals. Towering black clouds loomed high in the sky as the lightning flashed showing their true enormous size. Kezwick stum-bled in the wind and fell on his side as the weeds slashed at his face. Marvel stopped looking and tumbled back to where the pig lay.

“Come on then kin, we are almost at the river!!!” the warthog yelled trying to speak over the storms’ fury.

Kezwick rolled about as fear and sadness filled him, “I can not go on in this!!!” the pig yelled shielding his eyes from the hard rain.

The warthog pulled Kezwick up with his strong jaws and then steadied him. Anger covered the face of Marvel as he stared at Kez-wick through the storm as it pounded on there backs, “Your father would be ahead of me at this point kin!!!” the warthog yelled as rain water sprayed from the tips of his tusks, “and he would never fall!!!”

Kezwick shoved passed Marvel and yelled out at the storm as he did. Marvel then looked behind them and saw dark shadows tumble about in the rain he turned and hurried to catch up with the pig. No moon light would help lead the way to the river but they both knew it was near. The storm was too strong and overpowered


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—any other sound that the land made. Kezwick led the way as the rain water punished his face, the constant pelting blinded his vision but he pushed against the wind. He only saw bits and pieces of what was ahead with each flash of the lightning.

“THE RIVER MUST BE CLOSE!!!!” the pig yelled at the top of his lungs but no answer was heard, Kezwick turned and could not see Marvel anywhere, “MARVEL ARE YOU OUT THERE?”

The thunder crashed drowning out any chance of hearing a re-sponse so Kezwick began to backtrack. He stumbled about trying to see in the stormy darkness and just caught glimpses in the lightning. Then the pig saw Marvel in a wide leg stance snuffing bursts of wa-ter from his snout. In front of him in the raging storm stood the shadow weasels side by side. With unthinkable courage Kezwick ran up by the warthog’s side.

“Stand down kin!!!” Marvel yelled keeping a close eye on the weasels. Mermon suddenly pulled out his small knife and it glis-tened in the flashes of lightning.

Kezwick did not move. He stood tall as he could and lifted his top lip to a snarl. Mermon motioned and Blomm and Blum moved ahead slowly. Marvel laughed and shoved Kezwick back causing the pig to fall flat on his face . . . . the warthog would not need his help. Blomm jumped at Marvel with his claws cutting through the rain. The warthog swung his large hard head crashing it into the ribs of the weasel sending it flying into some higher weeds, only the feet of the creature stuck out lying motionless. Then Blum came with Mermon close behind, Marvel rolled forward. He passed Blum and struck Mermon in the chest sending him tumbling backward as the knife flew out of his possession. Marvel stood over Mermon hold-ing his head to the ground with his thick tusks. In a panic Blum ran for the knife as Blomm still lay motionless. He picked it up as the thunder roared and the lightning lit up the land. The rain fell hard as the weasel turned and trudged forward toward Kezwick

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who staggered to his feet. Blum snarled holding out the blade as he stumbled toward the pig, drool and rain water fell from his lower jaw as he raised the blade high into the stormy night air . . . . Kezwick closed his eyes.

He felt no pain, he felt no agony and he felt nothing. Kezwick slowly opened his eyes and saw that the knife had never reached him. The right tusk of Marvel had been trusted into the throat of Blum and with his tongue hanging Marvel pulled away as the weasel fell to the ground dead. Mermon got to his feet and screamed into the dark night. He ran over to Blomm helping him to his feet. Mer-mon breathed in and out heavily taking one last evil glare at each of the yard animals. Quickly he grabbed his knife up off the ground and then pointed at them while laughing his evil laugh. Mermon then turned and somewhat dragged Blomm off into the tall weeds still crying out in sorrow, the bond of the shadow weasels was bro-ken at the hands of Marvel. The two remaining would now have a new task, to bring down the ones that broke their bond and it would include Kezwick the pig.

The warthog stared at the motionless animal before him as rain ran off of him. The storm still raged on and Kezwick looked to Marvel waiting for him to decide what to do, “To the river kin!” the warthog yelped taking his eyes off the dead weasel. He pushed passed Kezwick without another word and the pig followed.

They reached the Coldmare a while later and paused at the edge as the waters smashed the bank. Large walls of spray lashed out at them along with the wind and rain of the storm. The waves that crashed about in the river were higher than Kezwick had ever seen and it seemed as though the storm would never let up.

“How will we ever rest in this?” the pig questioned trying to seeMarvel in the blinding rain.

Marvel only stared at the river as rain water dripped continually from his enormous face. His eyes were dark and he held his head


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—low, “No rest kin,” he said in a lower voice, “we cannot rest now.”

“Then when??” Kezwick retorted loudly but the warthog did not answer.

More courage filled the small pig again and he sat on the bank of the river, “Well, I will rest in this very spot then,” he yelled looking out at the raging water, “you do what you must.”

Marvel looked down at Kezwick and then back to the river, “You are becoming your father kin, anymore of this and you will be him in due time.”

“I need not be lord Marvel,” Kezwick answered with a glint of hope.

“What do you mean by that kin?”“Mezamir the Wise told me that my father was still alive,” the

pig said with hope, “he said I was not to burden myself and stay with the task at hand. I do so in hopes of seeing him again.”

The warthog got to his feet and started down the bank toward the south. The storm was letting up but still had a strong nature about it. The pig quickly got to his feet and watched as Marvel con-tinued to walk away, “Walk away then warthog! Turn your back on me like you did on my father!!!”

Marvel stopped looking at the ground, he then slowly turned and stared into the pig’s eyes, “I did not turn my back on your father, I did not believe that his decisions were right,” he answered with a soft yell he then turned again toward the south.

“Then he is alive!!” Kezwick yelled back with more anger.Marvel stopped and looked to the south as the clouds were be-

ginning to break up. Morning was not far off and the storm had turned to a light drizzle. Marvel then muttered one word as he began to walk down the rivers edge again, “Yes . . . . ”

Kezwick the pig watched his father’s best friend continue ahead and smiled. His father was alive and it took the words of Marvel the warthog to make it so. Now he would travel with Marvel to the

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High Over Flat and seehis band of friends again to carry out what it was he was meant to do. The pig took a step forward and his hoof slipped in the mud that covered the bank. He stumbled forward and barely had time to call out . . . . into the Coldmare River he fell.

Marvel continued when he heard a small yelp, he glanced back and saw that Kezwick had fallen into the river, “KIN!” he yelled out as he rushed to the rivers’ edge almost falling in himself, “SWIM FOR THE BANK, I’LL PULL YOU OUT!!”

Kezwick fought hard trying to keep his head above the water. The current was strong and splashed into his mouth causing him to gag and choke. He kicked his legs as the river tossed him side to side and waves flowed up over his head flipping him about. He was now long down the river and the rage carried him at high speed out toward the center.

Marvel ran along the bank as fast as he could but the river was much, much faster and in a matter of seconds the little pig was car-ried away into the morning twilight. Marvel stood on the bank out of breath calling out to only an answer from the rivers water. The sun was coming up faintly in the south and sudden heavy sorrow soaked to the very bones of the warthog named Marvel.

The river threw Kezwick all about. The current in the center was strongest and the pig tried desperately to fight its rage. Every so of-ten he would catch a gasp of air but it was too late. The strong heavy waters pulled him under almost to the bottom and he flipped along as the river weed and rocks bashed into him. He could not open his eyes, he could not open his mouth and he suddenly went limp as the current carried him away . . . . that was when all went dark, and a voice whispered, “I will wait..for time is all I have . . . . ”

The morning sun dried up the storm quickly. The air would con-tinue to become colder and the cool season was now upon the land. The High Willow stood still in the morning breeze as the last of the


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—storms’ rain drops fell to the ground below. High up in the branches above Mezamir the Wise stood at the edge of his door, he looked out into the land stretching for many miles. He adjusted his pipe that sat in his beak and a puff of thick grey smoke exited into the breeze, he was tired and needed sleep. After one last worried look the owl turned and walked into the willow shutting the door behind him.

THE END

About The Author

Writer and author Timothy David Walker begins one of his most valued sagas The Band Of Ward. With his Many stories of fantasy and horror Timothy is no stranger to the world of writing and was discoveredby the publishing world in 2004. He enjoys reading the likes of Tolkien, King, and Jordan and has always found them as his true inspiration to continue with story telling of his own. He and his wife Ly-sandra have lived in Barrie, Ontario for twelve years and are blessed with two beautiful children, their daughter Mikhayla

and their son Aiden.

Walker, Timothy -- The Gathering Part One The Band of Ward (Read in "Fullscreen")

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