On the Edges of Elfland. David Mosley

and it hurt when breathed. Probably broke a few ribs, he thought. But what was he to do now? Was it safe to call for the others? “Carlyle!” he shouted, “Balthazar! Carlyle! Mr. Cyning!” No one answered. He looked around, but could not recognize what part of the forest he was in. He walked, hoping to find someone or somewhere familiar. Eventually he found his way to a lake. He could not remember there being a lake in Fey Forest, but nothing surprised him now. He knelt at the lake with some difficulty, cupped his hand, filled them, and drank. The water was cool and refreshing. He immediately began to feel better.

      The water felt so good on his hands and head that he decided a swim would do him nicely. How different Alfred was, if he could have stopped to think. Not even two days ago he would never have thought of stripping down to go for a swim in a lake, let alone do so after having battled goblins and a giant. He pulled off his clothes and found most of his cuts already beginning healing, but he was still covered in bruises and his chest still smarted something awful. He waded into the water and his body immediately began to relax. He could feel strength returning to his limbs. He felt well enough to try a proper swim. It stung his chest at first, but the more he swam the better he felt.

      After about an hour of swimming all of Alfred’s cuts and bruises seemed to be healed. Even his ribs, which he thought broken, only caused him a small amount of pain. Alfred got out of the water and dried himself by simply lying on the soft down of the grass. After a short rest, he got dressed, and suddenly all that had taken place before he landed near this lake returned to his memory. He girded his sword and was about to set out in search of the elves and Balthazar when he noticed a cottage nearby. He walked toward uncertain of what he would find inside. Stories from his childhood told him it could be a witch, an elf, a beautiful princess, or an ogress. He felt, however, braver than before. Perhaps it was the encounter with the giant or lasting effects from the lake, but he was ready to meet any challenge. He knocked at the door. “Hello!” he shouted. “Is anyone home?” An elderly woman answered the door.