Chapter 1: The Quest
I am Ice Blade.
Santa Claus summoned me to his base of ops around July last year---explaining the details of a quest he presented.
"Now, see here, Ice Blade, I need you to find the 7 Christmas Crystals. They are guarded in the evil Train Castle in Scotland. Go and see if you can recover them. The Crystals were stolen last night by the henchmen of Captain Conductor!"
Mrs. Claus made an excellent dinner. For dessert we had a sumptuous bite of sugar cookies and snickerdoodle.
Santa always has a big speech after a fine meal. And I dare say, it was a welcomed parting gift as I began my journey.
A kiss from Mrs. Claus and the Christmas Angels made my cheeks rosy, and my heart full of courage. The warmth I felt in my soul was the result of the jolly loveliness of Christmas Homeland, the Land of Father Christmas known to the Dwarven Smiths who discovered it long, long ago in the Ice Age, as Plains of the Snow Lord.
I made it to the Christmas Ferry.
"Where to?" asked the captain.
"Strike oars to the Scottish Isles. There I shall search for Train Castle."
He listened intently. He was a serious man.
"Fine, lad. I know of which ye speak. Be wary, I heard many a tale from that place. A scoundrel's haven is the town beside it, called the Engine Town. Nothing but a bunch of fools and strong drink! Aye, I vow to take ye there, but not on my account but yours."
"I am questing for the 7 Christmas Crystals. Santa has charged me in this measure, and I shall do the deed."
"You will, lad. You will! And I know it! The Christmas Knight always has success in adventure. Let's move!"
And the Captain of the Ferryboat used an oar in the shape of a candy cane to shove off the dock.
Deep into the crisp air of the Scottish Isles, the boat arrived on the mystical Engine Island. And there was the almighty evil Train Castle! Below the great mountain whereupon it stood, in the vale, was Engine Town.
"I'll be waiting for ye right here."
The Captain spoke firmly. It was his promise to help the Christmas Knight.
"I shall return with the Christmas Crystals soon!" said I.
And so began my journey into town.
