Threads of Mind

[Evelond Formos]

Emerging from the darkness . . . Quar'tana comes forth . . .

"Emerge . . . emerge and take your shape!"

A drow fell from the shadows, at the feet of an old man. It was in a dark forest, filled with magical beasts.

"Quar'tana . . . you have risen . . ."

"Pipe! How'd you get here?"

"Through your power of course . . ." A hearty laugh comes from the man.

"You don't speak common!"

"But of course I do . . . do you not remember the Spell?"

Speechless.

"Quar'tana . . . you are mine . . . you shall do as I say . . ."

"Why should I, old fool?"

"Because I hold your future . . . and your power . . ."

The man held out his hand. A shadowy orb pulsated, floating a few inches above his hands.

"No . . . No!"

"Yes, Quar'tana . . . and I have met your siblings today . . ."

"Give me my power old man!"

"And why should I? If my visions are correct . . . you are already dead . . . you needn't this orb . . ."

He ushered the drow to follow him.

They arrived at a dark tree.

"This, Quar'tana . . . this will be your home . . . If you do as I say, then the orb is yours . . ."

'I have to listen to him . . . that orb is the only thing keeping me alive . . .' the drow thought.

"Have you made your decision, Quar'tana?" The old man grinned.

". . . I will do as you say, Resha."

They went into the treehouse.

"Excellent. Now . . . tege otin ruyo moro. WONO!"

He cackled. 'All according to plan', he thought. 'All according to plan . . .'[/color]