Catapat-
King Eldric began to tell him what had happened that fateful
day. "Far, far to the north, lies the frozen wastelands. From
this wasteland come the giants to steal our people to slave
for them. The leader of these giants, one called Tegraine, 
is the most brutal, evil giant known. He uses magic, this is 
known. He wears around his neck a frost gem on a golden 
chain.  This coldly beautiful ice-blue gem contains properties
to be used for good or evil. Tegraine uses them for his own
evil deeds. Sometime, we aren't sure when, Tegraine had 
seen my daughter. He wanted her, and bided his time until 
she was alone in this very room. Using the gem, he encased
my daughter in a clear block of ice and transported her to his
home. He has assured me that he has not harmed her, but 
she is neither living nor dead. He will never release her and 
treats her as his prized trophy. This is the reason I cannot 
keep a fire in this hearth. His magic will not allow it."

Prince Padraic, upon hearing this story, swore to King Eldric
that he would find and release the beautiful Princess with
his last breath, if necessary.

"By your leave, Your Majesty. I will take my leave of you
now, that I may proceed to bring together the people and
supplies that I need to begin this journey; for I will not fail. 
I will not return until I have freed the Princess or I am dead,"
he swore. Saying this, he left the room and walked to the
castle door.

Thus begun his journey to find and rescue 
the Princess............................