Four times sixteen thousand years ago there lived three siblings. They had grown up together but now they went out into the world to test their luck.

In the first year of their journey through the distant realms they found a kingdom of the spring order. All its members were filled with joy, gratitude and hope. They stayed there for a while learning a great many things about prudence and craftsmanship. After many years had gone by they agreed to continue their journey for they sought a new adventure.

In the second year of their journey through the distant realms they found a queendom of the summer order. In it all people were of mature intelligence and partook in careless enjoyment. They stayed there for a while, learning a great many things about fine thinking and resting of the soul. But after a year had passed they agreed to continue their journey for they sought a new adventure.

In the third year of their journey through the distant realms they found a kingdom of the autumn order. In it all people were of careful concern and beautiful memories. They did not want to stay in this kingdom for they were afraid of what they would have to learn here. They decided to turn back but the gates to the past were closed to them.

It was then that they were approached by three knights who asked them to come before the king.

So they did. There the king spoke to them and he said: "...