Garinor opened his eyes and realized he was lying on his back. A thatch ceiling hovered over him, which puzzled him, for he had just been outside. Someone must have moved him after his journey in time.
He tried to sit up but realized he had no energy to do so. His entire body was weary and he ached all over.
“Venturing into time, whether past, present, or future, is taxing on the soul,” crooned Elder Dorin’s voice nearby. “You have undoubtedly seen things that impact your life. You may have glimpsed the path that brought you to where you are, seen the road upon which you travel, or gazed ahead to see where the journey lies. Whatever you have seen will help you—or it will not. That is for you to decide as you wander on.”
Garinor heard Elder Dorin pouring something, then stirring it.
“Drink this now, Garinor, and you will find strength return to you.” He brought the cup down and lifted Garinor’s head in his hand. Slowly pouring the mixture in, he allowed Garinor time to swallow and to take the measured portion in full. The drink was bitter and had a nasty aftertaste. It was also frigidly cold and it stung his teeth when he drank it. Yet he knew he needed to drink the entire cup so he endured the discomfort.
The fog in his mind and the weakness in his limbs faded away and slowly Garinor was able to rise up and sit properly. He held his head for a few minutes before he could focus enough to look at Elder Dorin.
“Several months ago,” began the Elder while Garinor recovered, “a boy came to our village at great peril to himself. He braved a harsh winter storm to seek a remedy for a dying man. Upon that journey, he showed a certain courage and strength and purity of heart that opened this village to him and to his companion. You know of whom I speak.”
“Me and Tomli.”
“Outsiders rarely find this place, Garinor. Only those with special hearts can find us and our assistance. It is why we help those who visit here.” He held out another cup to Garinor with the bitter concoction in it. “You have many questions, I am sure. While I have some answers, mostly I have guidance for you. Answers, you will seek and find on your own. Do you understand?”
“Yes, Elder Dorin.”
“Very well then. What would you like to know?”
Garinor should ask to visit the portal of the present.