Making my way to the Mine

Having just narrowly missed a huge puddle I landed rather abruptly in a pile of brushed up garden cuttings, a compost heap to all intents and purposes. Shaking off the bits of dried leaves and twigs that stuck to my dress, I stood up to take stock of the new land that spread out before me. A marvellous vista of mountains and valleys drenched in bright sunshine surrounded most of the countryside. Here ancient trees which had witnessed many lifetimes of sadness and glory, stood alongside those newly planted, holding on to their hopes of new beginnings. Brightly coloured summer flowers dotted the landscape, which was divided haphazardly by stones walls, wooden fences and green copses. A lake shimmered in the distance and a wonderful waterfall cascaded down the largest mountain filling the lake with life and noise. Laughing aloud with delight at the sheer pleasure of the prospect of my journey through this land, I turned around, my attention caught by a sudden movement through the wooded area close by. Catching a glimpse of a red cloak I followed whoever it was, presuming that it was l’Enchanteur, for who else could it be? How did she arrive here before me when I had left her behind? Who knows the secrets of the magic that she wields over her realms and subjects, of which I was one, having been long held enthralled by her mysteries. Running quickly now to try and keep up with her, I eventually reached her side when she came to a stop near a gate to which some mules were tethered. She beckoned me over to her, handing me the reins of one as I approached. She told me that the mules were a gift to help me carry the mining equipment which lay in bags scattered on the roadside. Picking up the panniers I attached them to the beasts as best I could, not really being very knowledgeable about these four footed creatures. What was in the bags I had yet to discover. One thing was certain - they would be exactly what was needed when the time came to use them. Many of us have long believed that L’Enchantuer has the gift of foresight.

Just as I was about to leave, l’Enchantuer spoke.

‘’Follow the road wherever it leads you, until you come to an old farmhouse where the Keeper of the Mine awaits your arrival. She will introduce you to a one who will give you food and lodgings for the duration of your time spent exploring the Alluvial Mines.’’

‘’But what do we seek here in these mines of which I have never yet heard speak?’’

‘’You are seeking the elixar of creativity. There are many who live in these environs who swear that such an elixar exists, and as many who deny the tales as nothing more than legends. Only time will tell. For now go with hope and gladness. Be not afraid…yet.’’

And so with these words ringing in my ears I headed off down the dusty road slowly leading my team of mules behind me.