Legends Begin…

       An elder man wandered unsteadily toward the hall, the smoke already rising slowly from the hole upon its roof.  The carvings on the doorway were fading, time had shone its presence here, and even the glass had lost some of its bright luster.  Once inside, he moved his way close to the warmth, and, pulling a stool under himself, looked to the youths who were now gathering around him, eagerly awaiting tonight's story.  He smiled, remembering a time himself when he had done just the same, the thoughts of anticipation, and the wonder of each tale to be told.  Bending his back, allowing several creaks to be made, he brought his arching shape forward and cleared his throat.  Tonight was going to be a tale to remember… 

"Now let me take you back a time, to tell you of the most amazing story, as most have not heard it for nearly an age or two.  The legend of the Guardians goes back well into the first age, building and growing as middle-earth itself has.  As it begins, there were the three, each taking upon itself a charge if you will, whether it the dwarves in the great mountain halls, the elves of the woodland forest, the race of men and it ever rising cities, along with the many others who shared the land.  It was their duty to protect, to ease, and hold the people though the darkness as well as light.  There was a sense of life and energy to be found in each of them, always the responsibility was held with great honor and pride. 

It begins as each is chosen as a child, perhaps not older than some yourselves, and taken into training by another guardian.  The cycle begins again until there are three, each trained at bow and sword, riding and tracking.  It may be said that each set of guardians were some of the greatest warriors in their times, their entire lives filled with battles large and small. 

The wisdom of each was passed down through a book, leather bound and tied together, so that each might add their times and trials to it.  So with picture and verse, the book was brought together with maps and wisdom of each to bring to the next generation.  Now, I shall tell you that it was rare for guardians to live many long years, many of them perished within their first score of years, but there were those who spend their lives among the others.  Those were the great ones, those who build the legacy and held it together.  And it is about them that I will tell you this evening.  There are several to choose from, but I believe my favorite will be shone their justice. 

He smiled, again clearing his throat, and gazing out at the huddled masses that had brought themselves closer. 

"The story of the last Guardians, and their final tales…"