PROLOGUE
The sun shone outside as the giant sat alone in the cold, dark tower. Far below, he could hear the crazed throngs waiting to catch a glimpse of him in his present condition. Any moment now, a castle guard would appear and present him before the rabid crowd. Whatever followed thereafter would be anybody's guess. His heart pounded, and he tried not to think about what lay ahead … it was too frightening even for a giant to contemplate.
The sound of footsteps on the cobblestone floor drew closer, and when he looked up, a guard indeed stood at the doorway and addressed him. "It is time," he said somberly. "They are waiting for you."
The giant's heart lurched in fear of the unknown as he took a deep breath, and stood up, rising to meet his fate...