The Girl and the Guardian

CHAPTER 16. The Apple Orchards of Aeden, notably at Applegate, were of old places of delight, but have been corrupted by thorndaggers to grow for the Travellers the Apples of Peace, fruit which gives powers to them but is forgetfulness and enchantment to the people of Aeden. The rebels must never eat of this fruit, however they are tempted by the smell of it and their hunger. When any of them are captured they are forced to eat of it and are thus enslaved. Afterward they may also be seduced into the willing service of Rakmad and the Dark Entities, adding to the deceptive coils and betrayals of fallen Aeden.

  For the whole planet may be likened to a vast maze of deceptive appearances and paths which lead only to snares. The Dreamcasters, as their grip on the land tightened, began to project whole landscapes of deception, luring all who passed into snares and enchantments. Thus Korman warns, ‘Trust no appearances – listen to your heart, and see not only with your eyes.’ Ennead, Short Account of Aeden.