The portal closed rapidly behind them as they followed the Lion and Faun. Hans and Greg grew very excited! What had they done? How would they ever get back to their own dimension? The Lion and Faun spoke gently to both of them directly into their minds, assuring them there was nothing to worry about. They had been observing the young men for years as they grew up and had played in the forest and on the internet. The young men had both developed into first class gamers. The Lion and the Faun were tasked by their overlord king with presenting them with this opportunity for a quest. Hans and Greg would be given several challenges along various routes to find the central castle. Along the way, they would have the opportunity to enhance their gaming powers with certain incons and tokens. If they were clever enough to discover and use them, their chances of finding the castle would improve immensley. If during the course of their quest, either one got into trouble, they would be transported immediately back to their own dimension. But only the one in trouble would be transported. The remaining gamer would still have a chance to go on. The guys were both really excited now. Playing a real game in a seeming real environment appealed greatly to the gaming spirit in both of them. As they continued along the forest trail, the Lion and Faun were explaining more of the rules of the game, and that the prize for achieving the quest could be very valuable, if the questor were intelligent enough to ask for the right reward. Just then, there was a rustling in the underbrush next to the path! Three little creatures jumped out in front of them blocking their progress! 'Stop and identify yourselves' bellowed the golden one. He seemed to be in charge for the other two silver ones seemed to follow his lead. 'We have brought these two young gentlemen over from another dimension to try their luck in a quest to the King's castle.' said the Lion. He went on to tell the golden creature more about the Hans and Greg and soon, the little creature seemed to start to wear a smile. 'I would like to be friends with these two gamers!' said the little creature. 'Would they like to be friends with me?' Hans was a bit reluctant, but Greg enthusiastically extended his hand to the little gold creature in a gesture of friendship. The little creature understood and placed his hand in Greg's. As they shook hands, a feeling of mutual trust began to flow between them. 'You will need friends to assist you on your quest!' said the little golden creature. I will be only too happy to come along with you, along with my two assistants.' Greg looked at the Lion to try and read his face. The Lion looked back at Greg with narry an indication as to what he should do. He did give Greg a small history of these little creatures. They had been created by dwarfs a long time ago to help in their mines, but they had built too many of them, so they were turned loose to help maintain the forest paths and other menial chores that no one else wanted to do. Hans looked at the creatures and back at Greg and gave him a blank stare. He didn't know what to think of the little guy's offer. Greg had a feeling these little guys would come in handy and said,'I would be honored if you and your companions would join us! I think you will be a valuable addition to our group!' So the seven of them proceeded down the forest path, marching into who knows what, in quest of a prize of unknown value. Their curiosity and gaming spirits carried them on and soon, all of them were humming a little marching tune as they marched down the path. Thank you for taking a peek! Your support is greatly appreciated!