Swans

Chapter Fifteen

The five friends eagerly gathered in the shade under a big apple tree to discuss their various adventures. It was so exciting to be back together again.

Rocky and Rhonda had been able to find Silver Lake. It was a crystal clear lake surrounded by pine trees. It stretched into the forest for many, many miles.

"It seemed to just keep going and going," said Rhonda.

"We tried to find the end, but we gave up and decided that we liked thinking that it just might go on forever," added Rocky.

"On the lake, we saw the most beautiful birds," said Rhonda.

"Yes, they are called swans. They are all white and they have long graceful necks and full, rich, downy wings. They floated peacefully across the water in little groups."

"My how I wished we could have seen them," commented Charley. "There are so many beautiful and exciting things in this world. I wish I could spend all my time exploring it."

Rhonda agreed, "When we are finished with our visit here. We plan to go to caves that are not too far from the lake."

Rocky added, "They say there are endless underground waterways you may explore by sailing on small log rafts."

William sighed, "How I wish I would go with you, but I have to go back to school."

Chips remarked, "Charley and I have to stay her and solve a mystery."

"About the Gubazah Monster?" asked Rhonda.

Chips started to explain when a group beavers, woodchucks, and squirrels came through the forest. The all looked excited and angry. "Have you seen any signs of the Gubazah Monster? We have come to track him down and bring him to justice!" shouted a beaver.

The five friends said no.

"We have found some footprints, and we believe he is very nearby," a squirrel said.

A shout was heard from the bottom of the hill, and the search party took off after it. The five friends followed the group closely anxious to see what was happening.