Kryolia: The Quest for the Medallion

Contents

Part 1

Chapter1. Mystical Place

Chapter2. Kryolia

Chapter3. The birth of Keyra Braeden

Chapter4. Adina – the slave girl

Chapter5. Rudimas Steele

Chapter6. The fairies

Chapter7. Keyra’s Sixteenth Birthday

Chapter8. Freedom of the slaves

Chapter9. The secrets of the menacing mountains

Chapter10. An innocent imprisoned

Chapter11. A turbulent night

Chapter12. The Arena

Chapter13. Azara’s Medallion

Chapter14. Élan’s proposal

Chapter15. Kryolia’s treasure

Chapter16. Adina’s escape

Chapter17. Élan reveals the Truth

Chapter18. Rudimas Captured

Chapter19. A proper exit for an improper man

Chapter20. Nobleman of Kryolia

Part 2

Chapter21. The Journey Begins

Chapter22. The wooden vase

Chapter23. A Familiar Stranger

Chapter24. Aramis

Chapter25. Ezra Hawdan

Chapter26. Reunions

Chapter27. The Second Medallion

Chapter28. Zaria

Chapter29. The journey home

Chapter30. The Wonder within Meridia

Chapter31. Plans to Secure Kryolia

Chapter32. Captured

Chapter33. Rudimas’s army in Kryolia

Chapter34. The splendour of the orb

Chapter35. A Renewed Kryolia

Chapter36. Restoration

Part 1

Chapter 1

Mystical Place

Aaron Braeden was outside in a massive field. The most beautiful green grass, bedazzled with a touch of the early morning dew, stretched as far as the eye could see. Aaron blinked his eyes; in the dusky dawn, he felt a gush of wind. There was a faint murmur, and as he looked on, many forms were taking shape within this misty breeze. Swirling around him, shapes formed into little fairies with the most sparkling tinsel-covered wings of all the pastel shades imaginable. The most beautiful red lips, pale skin and green, blue, lilac and golden eyes were peering back at him. These angelic, lithe creatures were adorned in the same pastel shades complementing their wings. As Aaron stared in bewilderment at these little creatures, something below caught his attention; figures of little elves grew from the rich brown soil beneath the mass of green twinkling grass. Their clothes with all the shades of brown and green represented the earth from which they emerged. The trousers of the male elves and the hems of the female’s dresses were edged with different shapes of leaves. Their skin was pale green, defined by the mass of straight, shoulder-length brown hair that curled up at the bottom.

Still mesmerised by these interesting creatures, Aaron’s attention was drawn away by the sudden glare of a richly coloured rainbow. From within the colours of the rainbow stepped the most brightly clad gnomes. These, male and female alike, had round noses, chubby faces and the rosiest cheeks Aaron had ever seen. Their hair was ebony black with curls reaching to their shoulders, encircling their faces. Their skin varied between yellow and red, while their clothing had two or more colours of the rainbow. The little gnome children’s clothing made up of at least three different colours or shades, made them look like adorable little rainbow children who slid down the length of the rainbow.

Aaron could have been afraid of these creatures appearing and popping out from nowhere and surrounding him, with thousands of eyes peering back at him, but he could sense the calm and purity of a world untainted with the coldness that had snatched up the hearts of mankind. This sense of peace drove through him like a knife and his heart ached with yearning as his surroundings became real to him.

Standing in the centre of this heaven-enriched, mind-boggling world that only seemed possible beyond his wildest dreams, he was in a place that was neither part of the earth nor of the heavens but somewhere in between; a place where only the clearest of minds and purest of hearts could venture. Aaron felt so free and he so dearly wanted to call this place ‘home’. At this very moment, the sun rose into full view, radiating its light onto the grass. With the rising of the sun, the dew twinkling like diamonds on a matt of green moss and the bright blue of the sky now beginning to show its splendour, Aaron felt as if he were in heaven surrounded by all the dazzle and beauty it had to offer. With the yellow sun and the appearance of the rich blue sky, this ‘nowhere land’ came full circle and in the excitement of it all, everything began to swirl in front of him. Lifting his hands outward away from him, he muttered: Please creatures of this enchanted Eden, bring me home, bring me home … until he became lightheaded and fell down on his knees. Clutching his head with his left hand and grappling for balance at the same time, his right hand fell to the earth; no sooner had it landed, when everything became a blackened sea of darkness. Aaron clutched the grass beneath him, but when he lifted his hand all that was beneath his grasp was the sheet that he clung to while trying to retrieve his balance within the haze of his dream. He tried to hold onto his dream for one moment longer, but failed; it only brought him back to the realisation that it was just that: a dream. Would he ever experience a life like the one in his dream? Did such a world filled with these enchanted beings even exist? With that, his own life became so unrealistically dismal, or was it …?

Aaron was still reeling from his dream when he heard a faint pelting sound at his window. Stepping out of his bed and flipping his grey woollen shawl over his broad shoulders, he strode toward the window and looked out. A shower of pelting rain beat down against his window. It was as if the streaks of rain banging against his windows, yelled: Let us in … see us … hear us …! Aaron could almost hear the faint murmur of the creatures he saw in his dream, shouting out to him as if they were the rain itself. Just as it started, this five-minute spell of rain stopped. Moments later, like so many times before, there was a knock at the door. Aaron turned from the window and smiled.

Enter! The door opened and in bobbed the twins to the outstretched arms of Aaron.

Aaron was a tall, strong man with broad shoulders. He had deep golden eyes set in a stern face with high cheekbones and a wide, very prominent chin, yet there was a softness about him that made it easy for people to confide their deepest feelings to him once a conversation was struck. Roark and Richard, his twin grandsons, loved him dearly for he was never too busy to spend time with them. They were now five years old and had inherited their light brown hair from Aaron as well as their keenness for whatever they put their hearts into. They shared the more prominent features of their father and Aaron alike but had the same pale green eyes that their mother wore so well; their chins were not as broad as Aaron’s.

Over the last few years, shortly after the twins were born, Aaron had been having dreams of mythical creatures and unknown lands, but none of the other dreams was as clear or as vivid as the one he had just experienced. After each dream, which usually appeared in the early hours of the morning, there were these short and sudden showers of rain.

G’morning, grandfather! You had another dream, did you? asked an excited Roark.

Morning, grandfather! It rained … tell us! Tell us about it! Richard cried eagerly at the same time. Aaron laughed happily in a deep voice.

How are my two most favourite grandchildren in the whole world?

That’s because you do not have any other grandchildren, right grandfather? asked a bright little Richard.

That’s correct, Richard, but if I did have other grandchildren, I would love them just as much as I do you two, Aaron admitted truthfully. So, tell me, did you sleep well last night?

Yes, grandfather. I fell asleep the moment I closed my eyes, and I dreamt about all the wonderful stories you told us, Richard said in excitement.

Me too! Me too, grandfather! The next thing I knew, it was morning and I heard the rain knocking at my window, waking me up. That is when I knew that you had another dream. You did have another dream, didn’t you grandfather? Roark seemed to be bursting with anticipation at the idea of hearing another interesting dream.

Yes, yes, I did. The rain is a dead giveaway. I had a dream, all right. Aaron looked up and continued more solemnly. But this time it was so clear, so real!

The twins looked at each other, eyes wide with excitement and then back at Aaron, now even more curious to hear every detail of their grandfather’s dream; they egged him on to begin his tale. As Aaron narrated his dream to them, they sat in awe and admiration and hung onto every word that he spoke without interruption. When Aaron had completed his vivid narration, the twins were full of questions about whether such creatures existed, and where this unknown land was that Aaron kept dreaming about.

Well, if I knew that then I would not be standing here right now, would I? said Aaron matter-of-factly.

Richard, standing up from where he sat, placed himself on his grandfather’s lap and enquired innocently, Then where would you be, grandfather?

Aaron gestured to Roark to join his brother on his lap and answered, Why, in this unknown land, of course, or at least I would be trying to find it. In a much softer tone, Aaron muttered: Somehow!

There was a moment of silence as all three alike pondered this in their thoughts; then Roark asked if they could go for a picnic out in the fields.

Why yes, surely. I think that that is a wonderful idea, especially since the weather is so lovely out today, replied Aaron. The children yelled with excitement.

Now, now, go and tell your mother to pack a picnic lunch for us and then we can be on our way!

The boys rushed from the room; Aaron became lost in his thoughts once more. The dream was so vivid. What could it mean? Could it just be a figment of his imagination, trying to escape the monotony of this life or was there an underlying meaning that was deeper and more intense than he could ever imagine? Aaron prayed for the latter.

Tossing the lunch bag over his shoulder, Aaron and his grandsons stepped out of the Braeden cottage, turned their backs on the colourful vegetation behind them and continued across the rich grazing pasture belonging to the cattle that were reared on this piece of land. The boys wore baggy shirts that were tucked into their breeches. Aaron loved spending time with his grandsons. When he was not needed on the farm, he spent every waking moment with them, teaching them the skills of archery, reading, farming and most of all, telling them the stories about the past they loved listening to and his unique dreams. Each of the twins was special in his own right, for at this young age they had remarkable abilities, each one displaying unique talents. Roark had a skill in archery and loved practicing with his crossbow, sometimes for hours at a time. Richard took an early interest in books and urged his grandfather to read to him and then later to show him how to distinguish between the different letters of the alphabet. He learned quickly and now read along with his grandfather, hence grasping onto even more vocabulary.

Aaron with rucksack over his shoulder, Roark with his crossbow over his shoulder and Richard in tow with a book in his bag, all on horseback, trotted past the neighbouring farms where shepherds were tending to the sheep and cattle. The groaning sound in the mooing of the dairy cows, a distance away, could be audibly heard as they were eagerly waiting their turn to be relieved of the swell in their udders. Aaron and his grandsons passed the cattle and all the sheds, then came to a clearing where the grass was very short. Bringing colour to this huge patch of grass were daises, geraniums and dahlias that spread a blanket over the short grass. Aaron loved this spot and maintained that it was just for picnics.

The trees at the edge of the forest are nearby and will offer us shade if the glare of the sun becomes too unbearable, Aaron explained to the boys. These trees are as old as the ancients and loom like an umbra of protection against the sun.

The day progressed with tales of the ancients, reading, recollections of Aaron’s dreams and practicing of archery, with the boys running off now and then to play or pick some flowers to take home to their mother. Aaron was curled up on a blanket as he looked out at the countryside beyond. The skies were a clear deep blue with not a cloud in sight. Lush, fertile vegetation matted the hillsides in rows of neatly planted crops illuminating their voluptuous richness in the iridescent glow of the sun, piercing its rays through the clear blue sky and descending warmly on everything it touched. The neat rows of crops displayed bright tweaks of reds, yellows, purples and oranges of its abundant fruit in a shimmering mass of colour. Fields of crops continued across the hills and down to the riverbank, seeming to overflow into its blue quenching waters. Across the riverbed, fields of wheat and maize continued for miles until they came to an abrupt halt before a mass of mountainous rock, displaying jagged edges which jutted out dangerously all the way to its great height. No one knew who tended to the crops across the riverbed, as that area was not inhabited by anyone. It was a remote area of this vast land of Kryolia. The mountains continued almost all the way around Kryolia and stopped only when it met the vast, dense forest, making it impenetrable for anyone to enter or exit. Furthermore, Kryolia’s only exit was at the corner of the mountains where the river disappeared into the ground. Here was a narrow entrance which was well hidden from intruders. There was no sign of any river on the outside of Kryolia, so no one would suspect the opening. Only Kryolian citizens knew of the entrance that had kept them safe for years.

What a beautiful land! Aaron thought. "There must be a correlation between this land and his dreams, for where else would his mind-boggling dreams take place other than this place in which he was born and has lived ever since. Kryolia was definitely a blessed land. Nevertheless, just what that meant exactly is what Aaron had to find out. He knew that finding out the secret to all Kryolia’s hidden treasures would give more meaning to the drudgery that life had become.

Here is one over here! cried Roark excitedly.

And another one over here! Richard echoed. Look at the beautiful colours!

Aaron heard shouts of delight from the boys. He got up in a hurry from where he lay when Richard called out to him. Grandfather, grandfather, come and look at the fairies – just like the ones in your dreams!

What? Aaron asked in awe, but when he reached them, all he saw were two butterflies flying away. No, they’re just butterflies.

The boys disagreed. No, grandfather! It was the fairies. They were so colourful, just as you told us in your dreams! Richard was adamant.

Roark stated calmly, And we know what a butterfly looks like, grandfather. You do believe us, don’t you grandfather?

Aaron gazed upon his forlorn look and agreed eagerly: Of course I believe you, Roark. I know that you would never lie to me.

Aaron only wondered to himself whether the boys really did see fairies or if their minds were playing tricks on them after a day of storytelling. After that incident, Aaron never heard of the boys seeing fairies again and therefore opted to believe the latter.

The Braedens harvested hay for the grazing of the cattle and sheep. They also reared a few head of cattle. As Aaron and the boys reached the shed and went inside, Filip Braeden was tending to his cow. Filip, who fathered the twins, smoothed his hands over the shiny coat of the cow. She lay down, squealing with pain; just then, Filip could see the head of the offspring being born. With another groan, the cow pushed the body of her calf out. She lay there, exhausted and wet from the event of the birth, but eager to see her newborn. She licked the afterbirth from him and nudged him close to her, while he squealed in fright and amazement at his new surroundings. Gazing into his mother’s eyes, he drew close to her and rallied in the enjoyment of being free of his dark, tight little home that he had known for the last nine months.

After the birth, Filip sat and watched silently as mother and calf bonded. His thoughts took him to the cosy walls of his home where his own wife was in the fifth month of her second pregnancy. Although the twins were a godsend and very gentle-hearted beings, Filip was eagerly looking forward to the birth of his third child, hoping that this time it would be a sweet little girl. Filip shared features from both his parents: the stern features of his father, while the intense gentleness of his eyes were like those of his mother. Their eyes, deep blue and grey, were very rare and striking, possessing that evident kindness that made it easy for people to confide in them.

Clarabel, Filip’s wife, was a soft-hearted woman. She had soft features with a small nose and light-blue eyes. Filip had loved her early on in the days of their youth. They had lived on neighbouring farms and Filip could clearly remember the first time he saw her. She sat near the edge of the fence, stroking something that lay in her lap. As Filip ventured nearer, he noticed that a little kitten was resting peacefully within the crook of her left arm as she stroked it ever so gently with her right hand. Clarabel spoke softly to the kitten and Filip noticed the calm serenity between the two companions.

After Filip had watched for quite a while, he finally went right up to the edge of the fence and muttered a meek Hello!

Clarabel turned around, smiling sweetly as she looked up at him. Hello! My name is Clarabel Nuhart. What is your name?

I am Filip Braeden! Filip answered enthusiastically. Is that your kitten?

Yes! Clarabel came over to the edge of the fence so that Filip could stroke the little bundle that had been injured beneath the foot of one of their horses. The kitten was near death and Clarabel had taken it upon herself to nurse it back to health. She kept the kitten with her day and night until it could walk again. Filip sensed that it was the gentle love and care that the kitten received from Clarabel that truly healed her.

I have named her Snowy because of her snow white fur. As Clarabel related the details of the kitten’s story to Filip, a new and lasting friendship was born. Clarabel and Filip were wed at the ages of seventeen and twenty respectively. Their relationship was filled with love, patience, understanding and most of all, respect for each other that would bind their relationship forever.

Chapter 2

Kryolia

Months passed. Summer ended and autumn peeked its head through. The leaves on the trees were as colourful as ever: green, orange, red and yellow, making the trees an art of perfection. The best place for a picnic at this time of year was at the edge of the forest as the splendid scene was a spectacle to gaze upon. Everywhere, except for the evergreens, trees held their bright colours for almost a month before the leaves gradually turned brown and started to fall off one by one. The flowers were also slowly beginning to lose their lustre, but the grass remained green during autumn. The evergreens were as deep green and tall as they were in summer.

The fruit had been long harvested by now. The rest of the crops, whether corn, fruit or vegetables were sent to the market after distribution. The farmers were only paid for the crops that were sent to the market, as the rest of the crops were given out as rations to all the people of Kryolia. Every month, cattle and sheep were sent out for distribution to the people, some were sent to the market place and the others were kept on the farms for breeding in order to maintain the population of these animals. The milk was distributed every alternate day, with cheese and butter being processed on the other days.

The entire economic system in Kryolia worked on the basis of harvested products given to the fort and the balance sold at the market. The fort was the place where the goods were distributed fairly to the people of Kryolia. Everyone worked together to feed the country from its rich luscious growth. In this manner, there was no poverty and no one would ever starve in this wonderful land. The compensation given to the farmers for their crops after it was taken to the fort was enough so that they could buy other goods from the market place. They had more than sufficient income. Other people were appointed to sell the extra goods at the market place for a salary. The proceeds were used to pay the staff at the fort a salary as well as for other projects in Kryolia, like the extension to the library that was underway.

People that did not own farms were happy living in or near the town where they had little stalls where they sold goods. No rental was charged for the use of these stalls. It was a way of encouraging people to create artistic and necessary goods which they could sell to the public. This is how they earned their living. Those that did not have farms or stalls opted to serve people by getting jobs at the fort, on the farms or to assist others in their stalls. Whatever task one did was not too great or too small. The important thing was that they worked or rendered some kind of service to the public and did not sit idle and wait for their more than sufficient rations to arrive. This was the essence of the way in which Kryolia was managed.

As most families had their own vast piece of land, each farmer had to plant a different kind of vegetation that would sustain the needs of all; an easy task, as everything grew rich and plentiful in Kryolia. A few men were appointed by the people to undertake the distribution of the stock. These men were known as the clergymen of the fort. They saw to the smooth running of the distribution of all goods. They also remunerated the farmers with a fair wage for the goods they brought in.

The butchery, bakery, dairy and grocery store were under the supervision of the clergymen. If anyone wanted more of any goods than what was provided for by the rations, they were free to purchase it from these stores. Moreover, if any person felt that the rations were not enough to last for a specific period, then the clergy would appoint someone to investigate why this was the case. As a rule in Kryolia, no one was to be left hungry, but if any person relied on the rations as a source of income, they were reprimanded to find a job of any kind or even to do some charity work. If however, it were found that the person was just lazy and idle, then no extra rations would be given to him if he refused to do work of any sort. Someone would then be appointed to accompany that person for a time to make sure that they found work, as idle hands would only lead to mischief – something that Kryolians had tried to avoid since the people had set foot on this rich soil. Of course, the old, sick and weak could not work and were given enough weekly rations.

An Olympic event was put together to be held twice yearly so people could practice their skills in their spare time and no one needed to be idle. At this Olympic event that was put together by Aaron, his wife Azara and other clergy members, everyone could then show their talents, whether it be archery, horse riding, running, high and long jumps, spear throwing, javelin, climbing and many more. Besides this event, the yearly gathering to celebrate the anniversary of their freedom and the mingling that most people enjoyed at the market place, not many other get-together’s took place in Kryolia.

For a time, people were happy with the idyllic life in Kryolia and looked forward to the yearly events. As the population grew, some people managed to get away with idle behaviour. After a while, these events were not enough and people needed more entertainment to pass their time. People were now practicing their talents or learning new tricks each day so that they could boast in front of friends. This kind of behaviour that promoted pride and insolence started at the time of Azara’s death. Thereafter, Aaron chose to stay close to his home so that he could avoid the whimsical behaviour that the Kryolians had adopted as fun and fulfilling.

The people had become used to the easy life. They had forgotten to appreciate what they had and where they came from – the hardships they had suffered – and started to take the comfort of their lives for granted. Aaron had loved growing up here in Kryolia, but after he had become a grandfather, he noticed the superficial ‘don’t care’ attitude of the people. Living here had become drudgery to them. Idleness set in; the people, who were once dexterous with their hands at making a living by creating beautiful objects, became arrogant at their good fortune and started looking down upon those less skilled.

This is not how it was supposed to be! Aaron felt as if something were dragging him down. He avoided town whenever he could.

There must be more to life than observing the fickle ways men are so quick to turn to. Having had a wonderful fulfilling childhood, Aaron grew to a handsome young man and won the heart of the beautiful Azara. Happy in his marriage, he witnessed the change in Kryolia – the change in the ways of the people. How quickly they forgot that God had saved them from a terrible fate. Now they even forgot God because they thought that they had become invincible in this luscious earth that provided them with everything. In addition, as the morals and values of the people had deteriorated, so did the spirit of his wife Azara. She was a wonderful woman and they shared a very close and fulfilling relationship, but there always seemed to be something missing from Azara’s life. After the birth of Filip, a riding accident left Azara barren. Although Aaron thought that this was the problem initially, he realised that there was more to the distant, withdrawn demeanour of Azara than met the eye.

Azara was a beautiful woman, full of life and zest; what Aaron could piece together was that Azara was missing a long-lost relative; someone she longed for but was not quite sure whether such a person existed. In addition, as the feelings of well-being among the people had declined, so had her spirit. Azara had confided to Aaron one night that she felt an evil omen had come to cast a gloom over Kryolia; her health had become just as gloomy. It was almost as if she were the spirit of this wonderful country they called Kryolia. After her death one stormy evening, Aaron’s spirit also died. He refused to associate much with people, for he was so heartbroken. He could never understand how Azara’s health had deteriorated so quickly. After her death, Aaron refused to be a part of the fort conference ruling. He just stayed away and did not attend any meetings. After that, he also did not wish to go into town unless he absolutely had to, for he preferred the calm tranquillity of his farm and felt closer to nature and to God within its surroundings.

When Azara was alive, Aaron had enjoyed accompanying her into town so that she could help those in need, whether it be a shoulder to cry on or whether it was just to lend an ear for those who needed it; someone who would listen to them and who could give sound and sensible advice. How could he refuse to accompany his wife when she so loved his company and just loved helping the people? Just to sit around and listen to her or see how she made the citizens feel was enough for Aaron. In time, Aaron too became one who gave good advice to the people and whose advice was truly respected. There was only one little boy that neither Azara nor Aaron could get through to. He was set against the tranquil peace and contentment of Kryolia. Penderson Harvey had given his father a hard time. He had refused to work on the farm or do any chores around the house.

I hate farming and will never be a farmer, so why should I bother! Penderson answered insolently. I love the town and that’s where I want to be. His father Errol was not a difficult man. All he wanted was that his son lived a fulfilling and righteous life.

I don’t mind him being at the fair all day, but it is how he behaves when he gets home that is so upsetting to my wife and me, Errol sighed. My son and I had never possessed a great relationship for we were always at opposite ends of the rope. His mother Raina used to spend hours with him, trying to understand him and in turn make me understand him. She had the patience with him and many a time stopped an argument from erupting betwixt Penderson and me. These days, no matter what she tells him, he snaps at her and never answers her in a polite manner, but just to keep the peace, she overlooks it. Errol paused with a long heavy sigh. I cannot stand by any longer and let him continue to berate his mother with his undignified behaviour. Please help me! Errol had begged forlornly. You and Azara have helped so many people before, so I know that you stand a better chance at getting through to my son than I will.

Aaron and Azara had worked hard at trying to make Penderson understand the despair of his parents. No matter what they said to him, he only replied with impudence. He had his mind made up; whatever he did or said was correct. At the age of sixteen, Penderson chose to find an abode in town with a friend. Raina would go to him every now and again and beg him to come home.

Come home to what? A home of nagging parents and ‘till and toil’ all day long! Penderson shouted. No thanks. Just go away, mother, and leave me be!

At first Raina had thought that he was just being naughty and that eventually he would give in and come back home, but there came a time when even Raina realised that Penderson would never come home or change his arrogant ways.

Leave him be and concentrate on the loving daughter that you have brought up into a beautiful and respectful young girl. Penderson’s behaviour is definitely not due to a lack of good parenting, for the two of you are wonderful parents, Aaron consoled.

Chapter 3

The birth of Keyra Braeden

Winter in Kryolia was beautiful. The fallen leaves had turned from green to red and then yellow, creating a colourful carpet on the yellowing grass. Clarabel loved the fresh cool smell of the winter breeze. Standing in the doorway of the Braeden cottage, she watched the leaves strewn across the vast fields, and sighed. Oh, how I would want my child to bring such colour to our lives and perhaps uplift Aaron’s spirit so that the aching memories of Azara become easier to deal with.

The birth of the twins had been a joyous time, for Azara was still alive then and they brought her so much joy and happiness. Aaron could see a spirit renew itself in Azara at their birth. The twins closed a void in her life that had left an aching hole within Azara all these years. She enjoyed every waking moment with her grandsons. There was a time when even Clarabel did not see much of them, as they were always taken away by their grandparents. Clarabel being the selfless, considerate person that she was did not mind in the least for it was a pleasure to see Azara so full of life and zest once more.

Her declining health stayed at bay while she cherished every moment with her grandsons. Nevertheless, when friends started coming to the house for advice from Azara, she felt that she had been neglecting her duties towards her people and returned weekly for her routine visits to the market place. Here she was again affected by the negative attitude of the people; every time she returned from town, a part of her spirit faded. Months later, her health started to deteriorate once more. Azara lacked the energy she once possessed and she became tired and feeble.

Aaron stopped her from going into town but Azara insisted on going when she had more stamina. When the twins were four years old, Azara left this world. Aaron was heartbroken; the only thing that kept him going was his grandsons’ appealing innocence and playful cheer, coupled with the dreams that began shortly after Azara’s demise. These dreams unlocked an interest in Aaron to try to find the root of his dreams. All he surmised was that the dreams, Kryolia and Azara were all connected – but how? Where was the missing piece of this profound puzzle?

Soft, feminine features, a small slightly pointed nose, pink cheeks and a petite dimpled chin made up Clarabel’s face. Her light green eyes looked out between long blonde eyelashes, matching the colour of her long sleek, shiny hair. Clarabel’s belly was huge and round in the loose fitting frock. She had just waved goodbye to Filip, blowing him a kiss as he stepped out to tend to his farming chores. As Clarabel pondered Aaron’s mindset, the pangs of labour began.

Clarabel closed the door, went inside and called for Aaron. Father, please go and get help! The baby has decided to make its entrance on this lovely morning! She was still a few hours away from the actual delivery and when the midwife arrived to assist with the birth, Aaron left Filip and the others to do what was required of them while he took the twins and went out for a while.

Richard looked up inquiringly at his grandfather. Are we going to get a new brother or sister today, grandfather? Aaron looked down at him.

Yes, Richard; it could be a boy or a girl. Which would you prefer?

I would really like to have a sister because I already have a brother, Richard answered sincerely.

Roark, the excitement overwhelming him, burst out, I want a sister. I know that it will be a sister. Wouldn’t that be nice, grandfather?

Yes, it would be nice to have a granddaughter, but even if it is a boy, I would be happy. After all, look what fine grandsons you are! Aaron smiled and bent down to lift his grandsons, one in each arm. Aaron hugged them both and gave them a peck on their cheeks before he put them down again. As Aaron put the boys down, he noticed a strange look on Roark’s face. What’s the matter, Roark? You look puzzled!

Did you have another dream this morning, grandfather? Roark enquired.

Aaron turned and stared at him. Why do you ask that, Roark?

Well, I remember seeing a slight shower of rain this morning, but with mother getting sick, I almost forgot about it.

Yes, grandfather, I too heard the rain this morning, Richard added, deep in thought.

Aaron drew in a deep breath in relief. So there was the usual shower that occurs after my dreams!

What do you mean, grandfather? Didn’t you see the rain? Richard was surprised.

Well, I wasn’t sure about the rain because I had no time to notice it. You see, Aaron continued, Your mother called out to me this morning and my dream was interrupted. Obviously, once awoken, I had to see to more pressing matters and I did not take note of the rain. Then after everything settled down, I realised that it had not rained, or so I thought. Aaron scratched his head. And now I am not sure whether my dream was actually over or not.

The twins eyed each other, smiled and Roark said, Well, why don’t you tell us your dream!

And we will decide whether it was over or not! Richard finished.

The twins would say anything for Aaron to tell them his dream urgently.

Aaron was standing in the background. In front of him was a light so bright, he could hardly look at it. He lifted his right hand to shield his eyes from the glare of the light. He blinked his eyes; then straining them, he saw an image which seemed to emanate from the light itself. As his eyes adjusted to the glare, he realised that the image portrayed the figure of a human being – a woman, to be precise. This he gathered by the height, build and slim waist of the figure which distended down into a wide, flowing skirt.

Although the woman faced him, Aaron could not see her face clearly as the light was too bright and obscured his view. He noticed long tresses that draped her face, flowing over her shoulders and cascading down to her waist. He could not see if the tresses were longer as their full length was hidden from his view. All around this seemingly familiar woman was blackened darkness, the glare of the bright light emanating from within an object the woman held. The object was round with jutted, pointy peaks, twinkling in the intense light. Just then, the object started to glow so brightly, illuminating its golden rays so that even the image of the woman disappeared within its light. As Aaron peeped out through the crook of his hand, the light brightened even more; then in an instant, everything blackened and he was awakened by the call of Clarabel. Aaron did not know if the dream was over or if there was more to it, because of the interruption.

All he knew was that he felt so blessed on this beautiful winter’s day. He had a good son in Filip, a gentle daughter-in-law in Clarabel and two intelligent little grandsons, all of whom filled his life with so much love; the pain of losing Azara almost seemed bearable. Now, his third grandchild has already sounded its arrival into the world, only a year after Azara’s demise.

A soft shower of rain began, watering the entire Kryolia. Aaron and his grandsons hurried back home to hear the wonderful news of the birth of his granddaughter. The mid-wife, Sara Vanees, was cleaning up and soaking blood-stained linens. Sara was a short, well-built woman who had her hair tied up in a stiff bun. She had a sharp nose, thick pink lips and black narrow eyes set in a rounded face. Seeing Aaron, she relayed the good news to them. Clarabel is resting, but I wanted you and the boys to see the baby, so come on in and I will fetch your granddaughter. Aaron was overjoyed to hear that it was indeed a little girl. The twins were equally ecstatic. Closing the door behind him, Aaron and the twins followed the midwife to the nursery. We have a sister, grandfather! Richard said excitedly.

I can’t wait to see her! Roark exclaimed eagerly. Aaron hugged them both and agreed with Roark.

The baby, though half asleep, opened her eyes to look at her grandfather and smiled up at him. Aaron beamed as he looked into her small features and gazed into her golden eyes. Strands of dark blonde hair could be seen from beneath the tightly wrapped blanket. The twins, eager to see the newborn, urged Aaron to lower her so that they could glance at her. They ‘oohed’ and ‘aahed’ in amazement at her petite little features. Hearing their voices, the baby opened her eyes to peek at her brothers. Ten minutes of cooing over the baby went by when she decided that all the excitement tired her. A tiny yawn came from her little mouth and she dozed off to a contented sleep.

Sara was meticulous about everything she did and although showing a stern face, she had a soft heart. She put the baby down and told Aaron that the baby needs to sleep and that she would be back the next day to check in on mother and child. Everything is all right now. The birth went well, but if anything comes up, you can call on me anytime.

Aaron bid Sara farewell. The rain had stopped, after a whole hour of blessing Kryolia with its soft cool moisture.

So it was that on the very day that Aaron recalled his dream to the twins was born a beautiful little girl right at the onset of winter. The weather was so perfect; the smell in the air was rich and fresh – truly a blessed day. A winter in Kryolia was never as harsh as the winters outside. The weather was always mild and cool enough to bear without having to wear heavy coats and cumbersome clothing. What made this winter’s day even more special was the fact that they were blessed with an entire hour of rain penetrating the earth to enrich the soil with goodness. This beautiful baby girl was so content and peaceful; Aaron sensed a magical aura about her. As he looked deep into her eyes, he saw a flicker of his vivid dreams – and he knew then that this was truly a blessed child, gifted both by the seen and unseen worlds of Kryolia. The little girl’s name, Keyra, which meant ‘the key to secrets,’ was chosen by Aaron. The name had both symbolic and significant meaning as Azara had always wanted to name her child Keyra if she had a daughter – unfortunately, that opportunity was not afforded to her. Why, she did not know other than that she liked the sound of the name and it gave her a flicker of a sense of memory from her childhood. Clarabel agreed with great enthusiasm at the name that Aaron had chosen. She thought that it was a beautiful name that somehow symbolised the name of their beloved country – Kryolia. The twins were overjoyed at the birth of their ‘brand new little sister’ as they put it.

Alone in his bedroom, the tears began to roll down Aaron’s cheeks. He called out: Azara, oh Azara, if you could only see your new granddaughter now, you’d be so happy … His words trailed off. The tears blurred his vision, but through them, he could see a figure appearing before him. Blinking his eyes to see clearly, he saw Azara standing in front of him. Azara! he called out; the figure was still a blur. Thinking it was just a figment of his imagination, he rubbed his eyes, wiping away the tears; and ‘yes’, there stood Azara, smiling.

Is that really you? asked a stunned Aaron. "Azara, are you there?’

After a while, the image answered, Yes, Aaron, I am here.

Overwhelming tears fell from Aaron’s eyes and he muttered, Oh, how I miss you my dear Azara!

Don’t worry, Aaron. I am with you always. Whenever you think of me, know that I am near.

Aaron wiped his eyes and remembered. Oh, Azara! Our granddaughter! Come and see her. He reached for her hand, wanting to take her to the nursery.

Oh, Aaron, I have already seen her and she is just adorable.

You’ve seen her … you know! muttered Aaron.

Yes, I know of the birth of our granddaughter, Azara returned softly.

Aaron looked deep into Azara’s eyes, then continued slowly: Azara, why did you leave me so quickly? Why? The figure of Azara became translucent; Aaron called out, Come back to me! Waiting for an answer, Aaron knew that it would not be the one he seeks. As Azara’s figure became more translucent, she spoke quickly, Aaron, you are strong and need to fill the void in my life of someone that I sorely missed.

Aaron was confused. What do you mean?

Azara continued. Your dreams are the key, the key … And just as suddenly as she had appeared, Azara was gone. Aaron stretched out his hand, but there was nothing there. What did Azara mean? Was she really there or was it just a figment of his imagination?

Aaron was truly overjoyed at Keyra’s birth. One had to understand the restlessness in Aaron’s nature due to his dreams, his wife’s uneasiness and the circumstances around her childhood. All this played an enormous role in Aaron’s life. Now, after the death of Azara and the fact that something was amiss from this blessed haven they called home, Aaron had become restless for answers. However, the birth of Keyra put all that at bay, for now he knew that it was just a matter of time before his questions were to be answered. Keyra had the serenity and calm upon her with a promise that great things were to happen with the help of those unforeseen aids that Aaron had been praying for so long.

Aaron and Keyra spent much time together as she grew up. The twins were growing and so were their interests, making them spend much of their time off on their own in order to satisfy their curiosities or to practice their skills. This gave Aaron the chance to teach Keyra everything he knew of the unseen by narrating repeatedly to her his dreams and explaining to her in detail exactly what they meant to him. Because of this, there were times when Keyra seemed to have conversations with invisible beings. Aaron was sure that it was the very creatures he saw in his dreams. Keyra’s parents, although somewhat dubious at the fact, never said anything negative to either of them. Deep down, they wanted Aaron’s myths to be somewhat true and if it meant that Keyra had to be a part of it, then so be it. They knew that Keyra’s fancies were not harmful to her in any way; quite the opposite. Keyra was always so calm and gentle and seemed to be protected from the little mishaps of life. Clarabel could not recall that Keyra had ever fallen or hurt herself as a toddler. As time went by, even they were convinced that Keyra had a gift and with Aaron’s help, it would become more apparent.

One day when Clarabel entered the room where Keyra lay, after being alone for a while, she noticed that it was almost as if she were playing with someone.

Mentioning this to Filip and Aaron, the latter agreed. Yes, I have noticed the same thing. Perchance she is seeing someone that we cannot see!

Clarabel, with a frown on her face asked, Well, what could that mean?

She turned toward Filip and Aaron for a reply. Filip was amazed at the news, for he took it that Keyra was just a happy, peaceful child as the twins had been.

Now, father, Clarabel; do not be hasty to jump to conclusions. Keyra is just a pleasant and happy child who does not mind being left alone as she is peaceful without a worry in the world. After all, she is barely a year old. Or maybe it could be mother coming to visit her! Filip teased.

Clarabel smiled at her husband and then looked at Aaron, who was pondering Filip’s words.

Ever since Keyra’s birth, Aaron had had no more dreams; it had been almost a year now, but he would not let this dampen his spirit. The more he thought about it the more he realised that this was because Keyra had become the essence of his dreams, the key to making all of those dreams a reality. He did not agree with Filip that Azara was visiting Keyra. No, he had ‘someone’ or ‘something’ else in mind. The conversation took him back to his dream where he witnessed the mirage of all those mystical creatures and wondered if they really did exist or whether they were now just beginning to exist to Keyra, either in reality or as a figment of her imagination.

Aaron left Filip and Clarabel to reassure each other that everything was as it should be. He strode to Keyra’s room and gently opened the door. The room was bright