Jacob is a photographer and artist. One day, as he is walking through the woods, he catches a glimpse of a fairy, a tiny, flying human-shaped creature. He knows no one will believe him, not even his lover Robert, so the following day Jacob ventures back into the woods whereupon he discovers more than he bargains for. An old oak lying across the rushing waters of a small river is the gateway to another world. Fairy Land is a place of wonders where he meets Kellen, a fairy soldier, Faena, a vain beauty, and King Utrin. Jacob is eager to return home to Robert, but the fairy king gives Jacob a task he must complete before they will show him the way back. He must break the energy barrier between Fairy Land and the Demon Realm for the fairy soldiers to pass through. In the realm of the Demons, Jacob meets Xavier, from whom he discovers what the fairies have been hiding from him -- time passes differently in these realms than on earth. Devastated, far away in both time and distance from his home and beloved Robert, what is the twist that returns the smile to Jacob’s face? The surprise that brings the joy back to his now miserable existence?

Changelings

“Where have you been?” asked Kellen.


The fairies were full-sized and looked as though they’d had a rough time of things. Their usually flawless faces were streaked with dirt and they had tears and stains on their clothing. Faena, who was missing her helmet, looked especially glum.


“Just exploring,” Jacob replied innocently.


Kellen’s eyes were constantly scanning the surrounding woods.


Her arms were folded over her chest and she wore the expression of a scolded child.


Kellen ignored her. “You didn’t see anyone, did you?” he asked, narrowing his eyes. “You didn’t talk to anyone?”


Jacob didn’t want to lie, even to the fairies. “Why all the questions?” he asked. “I thought you were in a hurry to leave. Did you get the crystal? Can I see it?”


Kellen continued to scan the woods. “You’re right. Come on, troops.”


Chapter 20