Prelude Question: Could it be that the future is really our past, one linked to the other in an inseparable bond, traveling endlessly in circular patterns throughout time and space, repeating itself over and over, each time manifesting itself in a familiar but uniquely distinct manner? There is an old adage that says throughout life, you can count your true friends on the fingers of one hand. It's not about who you pretend to be that forms the bond, a boastful show of wealth or good works, but rather who you really are that matters. In the end, there is only one true friend who willingly gave His life to save yours. Not much was asked in return. It was a gift, given by grace. Past or present, what you do with that gift it is up to you. It just may determine your future... "Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it." George Santayana circa 1905 approx. "To everything, there is a Season and a Time to every Purpose Under Heaven..." Ecclesiastes 3:1 KJV Preface An Obelisk unearthed by the Dwarven Army mystically projected a warning, revealed in a drifting vapor from within its solid granite walls. It was a warning originally carved in stone, written by the ancients in Sumerian text long before the time of the Troll Wars. An old Monk received a visit in the form of a heaven sent apparition. A glimmering image of a close friend, a spirit long passed, sent to convey a similar warning. Both carried the same message... Beware the Head of the Serpent! The Sword of Leahanna had become detached, no longer linked to the Pearl or any one person, sent to rest deep within the waters of Lake A'Lithander in the heart of the Elfin forest of I'Thillianne. For the Sword, it would be a time of healing. A new Pearl would be cultivated and nurtured. Its power soon to return. The diabolical plans of the Devil and his army of Demonic Monsters had been foiled and put asunder due to the combined efforts of the Roluk Hordes, Elfin Forces, three Wizards, the Sword of Leahanna and of course, by the very Hand of the Lord Himself. The Evil One had been sealed within the portal of the second heaven. The door had been slammed shut for a Time, Times and Half-a-Time. Only the Head of the Serpent remained. The driving force of Evil was now in chains. All seemed to be good... But Not So Fast! The seed of perdition had already been cast, set in place by a long dead Evil Wizard. Little-by-little it began to grow in power; taking the form of a vile and evil creature that came to be known as the Beast. Slowly this beast tightened its grip upon the inhabitants of the Realm, starting with Westshire and the lesser known provinces. Population control through debt and coercion would entice those unaware to do its bidding. None ensnared by its cruel monetary policies could buy, sell or prosper without its mark or the number of its name. In turn, it would use its ill-gotten gains to finance the ongoing war between good and evil. The Head of the Serpent began to take control. For it was said, Who is likened onto the Beast... Who will worship the number of his name?...