Chapter 3: The Bridge Troll

Jemma finished packing and went into the kitchen her parents were both at the kitchen table. "Mom, Dad I think I have to leave."

"We know dear, the old wizard told us you had been summoned as a Hero. We will miss you but you must go. Be careful and remember we love you." her dad said as they hugged her good by.

She left her home and started walking toward the castle as if on autopilot. She never had to wonder what direction to go she seemed to have a preset map in her brain.

Jemma traveled day and night only resting when needed.

She was happily singing as she approached a bridge occupied by a young female bridge troll.

"Gold," grunted the troll.

Jemma held out her empty hand and smiled, "you are a beautiful young troll. I may not take your hand?"

The young troll stood and reached for her hand.

Jemma looked into her eyes and smiled, "may I have your name?"

"Philippa, but I like Pippa."

"Pippa, I am on my way to meet the king, I have no gold and would like to pass."

"May I travel with you. I will be yourpool handmaid, and your protector."

"I will be happy for your company. Pippa how old are you?"

"Almost three." Pippa smiled, "I'll be an adult in one year."

"I am 16 summers, I guess I'm an adult."

"My brother will guard the bridge now. He is two. Dada doesn't like boys guarding the bridge they are not as kind. Dada said they are easily bewitched. Did you bewitch me? I've never met a witch but I like you and want to serve you. You must be a powerful witch. I have seen a sorcerer, he was kind, and a conjurer, he was mean, but not a witch that I know of. You have magic. I can feel it. I am not sure you are a witch, you might be a wizardess."

"A wizard didn't pass recently?"

"Nope."

"A wizard from the capital visited my home a few days ago."

"He must have used the wells."

"The wells?"

"There is one just up here let me show you."

Pippa lead her to well that appeared to be dry. Jemma reached her hands over the well and pictured the castle in the capital. The well was immediately filled with quick silver. Pippa jumped in and Jemma tentatively followed. They were whisked away inside the silver.