Raffaelo and the Magical Ladder

Free Preview Karishma shooed Raindance away from the angry mountain, but the unicorn would not pay heed. “It’s scalding hot!” Karishma reprimanded Raindance as plumes shot up all around them. Nevertheless, Raindance nuzzled her friend and neighed; she knew what she was doing. Raindance swirled around the volcano and finally came to rest under a charred tree. “No one lives here,” Karishma told her cherished pet. Raindance snorted and refused to move. Karishma was about to command Raindance to fly to the next island; they’d seen all they could see here. Just then, a dark figure appeared and called, “Raffaelo, Raffaelo, let down your ladder.” Karishma and Raindance watched in wonder as the hooded man hobbled up the mountain. “What could he want with this forsaken place?” Karishma jotted notes down on her kingdom map. When the mysterious man had finally disappeared from view, Karishma determined to find out. “Raffaelo, Raffaelo, let down your ladder,” she called. Instantly, a ladder clattered down. Karishma signaled Raindance, who flew up the ladder. When they reached the top, Karishma was surprised to find her gaze met by a handsome young man. “Who are you?” Karishma asked as she stepped into the crater of the volcano. Raffaelo’s mouth hung open. The beautiful young woman was unharmed by the flames—she must also be pure of heart! “I’m Raffaelo,” he said shyly. “Why are you here?” Karishma asked. Raffaelo’s tender blue eyes glanced away. “I am trapped by the magician.”