Book the Second, Chapter the Tenth: An Introduction to Soci

[VictoriaSilverwolf]

What proof that such realm be real? Might be trickery. Friend to true workmen we be, but knaves not to be suffered.

[jp1885]

“I will stay here, and one of thee can go in my place,” volunteers Lepus. “You can see with thine own eyes, yesno?”

[SunlessNick]

"We will gladly show one of you if words are not enough proof," says Eliza.

[VictoriaSilverwolf]

In response to these invitations, one of the half-seen figures steps forward, revealing himself to be, as far as eye can tell, a grown man, but of diminutive size, dressed in miner's gear and bearing the tools of that ancient trade. He extends a hand in friendship, which proves to be nearly as hard as stone and possessing great strength, despite being child-like in proportion.

Jori, he announces, by way of introduction. Where lies this land of such fine fare, upon which you giants feast?

[Mr. Handy]

"Dr. Henry North," says Henry, giving the dwarf a handshake, though he cannot hope to match his strength. "Pleased to meet you, Jori. Back the way we came is a stairway leading down to a chamber with several different stairways. One of the stairways is dustier than the others, as fewer go that way. That leads to an island where the coconuts grow. The island is also inhabited by monkeys who consider the coconuts to be theirs. They threw one at my friend here and hit him in the head with it." He indicates Lepus.

[SunlessNick]

"Your home is quite beautiful, Jori" says Eliza, thinking she should repeat her earlier sentiment to one of the residents. Unsure if she should offer her hand the way the men do, she curtsies instead.

[jp1885]

Lepus doffs his tricorne and bows, revealing the monkey-administered lump on his head.

"I be old Lepus, at your service. Seeker of knowledge be I - mayhap I shall learn many things this day."

[VictoriaSilverwolf]

Well-mannered you three be, more so than many who delve deep below. Pass, then, and we shall mind our business here, for we've no wish to meet with these 'monkeys' of which you speak, seeming to be ill-tempered creatures indeed.

With that, the fellow directs the adventurers within, where they encounter many others of the same kind, who express great wonder at such a marvel of Nature as the young giantess. Eventually, the trio climb upward sufficiently to emerge from a rough stone tower, from which one perceives a rugged seacoast.

[Mr. Handy]

"This must be the Cornish coast," says Henry, looking around. "We must get our bearings and find passage back to Highdark Hall. The coast is to the south, so turning left when facing it would lead us east."

[SunlessNick]

"What a sight!" exclaims Eliza as she takes in the sea and the rocky cliffs. "So much water... you told me of the sea, Father, but to see it for myself! Are there such marvels in all corners of the world? How I wish I had thought to explore the island further."

[jp1885]

“Aye, Curnow be a wondrous place. Cruel and barren at times, but beautiful also,” says Lepus

“‘tis surrounded by sea on three sides, so let me see on which side we be.”

Fiddling with various bits of bone produced from his noisome pockets, the hedge wizard makes a talisman of Know Direction.

[Mr. Handy]

"It is indeed a beautiful land," says Henry. "Such sights are one of the joys of exploring. The world is full of beauty and wonder."

[VictoriaSilverwolf]

Spoiler:

The Patient Reader will please proceed to Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh.