Page 10

 As the princess followed the two mice through the dark and dusty passageway, Essie realized two things. First, she would never be able to find her way back without guidance. Second...Mr. Oliver P. Fluff liked to talk. He really liked to talk.

“...swinging by his whiskers into the beehive. That was quite a birthday, I can tell you.” He chuckled to himself. “But what about you my lady? Have you made any progress in finding the sword?”

Princess Esperanza tilted her head to the side, “Sword? What sword?”

The Fluffs exchanged a look of surprise. “Why, the Sword of Secrets, dearie,” said Rebecca just as Oliver began, “We just assumed you had been captured just like all them others who had been searching...”

Essie's head shook, “What is the Sword of Secrets?”

This time Mr. Fluff spoke first. “The Sword of Secrets is said to be the only thing that can break the curse on this land.” He paused to push aside a cobweb. “Why it was 10 years ago this week that the great Sorcerer Mularky invaded this land and enslaved its inhabitants. Stories say that only the Sword of Secrets can break his power. Many have gone searching...none have returned.”

To search for the Sword, turn to page 15

To confront Mularky, turn to page 16