Elf-Realization

"There's only one other wizard nearby I know of," she replied. Like him, her voice had gone up a couple of octaves, and had a pleasant, almost musical quality to it. "Unfortunately, we have no idea where Vincent may be."

"We were down by the beach - maybe he's there somewhere, too."

This provoked a frown. "We don't know that - but I have to confess, I see no other options. Let us be on our way then, Fertal."

"I think that - wait, what did you just call me?"

She blinked. "Your name. At least I thought I - that, that wasn't your name, was it?"

"I..." he hesitated. "It seems like it should be - but I know it isn't. I know my real name is 'Fred'," he said, pronouncing it like it was a foreign word, "But for some reason, 'Fertal" just sounds right. What about you, Artizza?"

She nodded slowly. "I think you're right - I know I'm really 'Astra', but I think Pronklezilch's spell has done more than just change our bodies - it's affected our minds, too."

Fertal nodded. "All the more reason to find Vincent, then - and quickly."

The two elves set out back towards the shore they had arrived on as humans not too long ago. In spite of the fact that they were now somewhat smaller, they made good time.

Before long they were back at the rope ladder they had passed earlier. As they approached it, they slowed, gazing at it almost longingly.

"Maybe we should just - go up it," Fertal said haltingly. "Just to - I suppose - I mean, I..."

"I know," Artizza nodded. "It may be Pronklezilch's spell, but I feel like it's the right thing to do, like it's - like it's home!"

"But if we go up," Fertal said in a near whisper, "Will we ever want to come back down?"

1. They resist the urge, and continue on to the beach.

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