"You will need to journey to all four corners of our realm before you can reach Raindancer World now," explained the earth creature. "With the difficulties we are in right now, it may be a long and arduous journey, but we have crafted this tool to aid you in your venture."

When Lili looked up from the runes, she saw five of the Gnomes step out of the earth, carrying with them a large round disk. As they approached Lili, she saw that the disk was in fact a shield, exactly the right size for her. It shone a brilliant gold and was engraved on the front with a large pentacle. The shield was undoubtedly the work of masters at their craft, and Lili took it from them reverently.

"Thank you," Lili managed to whisper, awe-struck. The speaker Gnome tossed another handful of runes.

"Take also these gold coins. One never knows when you might have need of them."

A sixth Gnome came forward and thrust fourteen freshly minted gold coins, each engraved with the same pentacle design as that which the shield bore, into Lili's hands. Lili shoved the coins into her pockets as the speaker tossed more runes.

"Please accept these gifts with our thanks for your help. These Gnomes here," the speaker indicated the six Gnomes who had presented Lili with the shield and coins, "will show you the tunnel which leads to our cousins in the eastern skies, the Sylphs. Bright blessings on your journey."