[Estelyn Telcontar]

Merisuwyniel was overjoyed and relieved to be reunited with the Entish Bow. She stood at a little distance from the others, holding it tightly. It vibrated and hummed with pleasure at being in her hands again, communing silently with her. Thoughtfully she gazed upwards at the tower, strangely fascinated by the sight of its enormous height, the sleek firmness of its walls, the shape of its – oh, never mind…

“We must enter the tower,” she announced to her astounded companions. “There is yet a foe here, greater than She was, and we must destroy it if the civilized world is to live in safety.”

There was some grumbling and mumbling as they thought of comfortable beds, good food, and profitable earnings to made elsewhere, but being noble and heroic, they did not desert her, of course. Chrysophylax, who refused to enter the claustrophobic entrance that led inside, remembering his last bout with tight passages, volunteered to watch over their baggage, so they laid off their more wearisome burdens, keeping only the most necessary and precious belongings with them.

Merisuwyniel clutched the Bow in one hand and Gravlox’ hand in the other and strode bravely toward the doorway. Expecting the worst, approaching foes or at least an alarm, they entered, but nothing happened. In increasing astonishment, they traversed one passageway and hallway after another, yet there was no sign of any living thing within the walls.

“It appears to be safe for us to divide up and explore the fortress,” the Elven maiden said, “but take care – there is yet a danger that cannot be seen.”

After some whispered words with Gravlox, she nodded and released his hand. He turned down one passageway while she directed her steps toward a staircase. The others scattered in every direction, wondering what they would find.