The Ultimate Guide by Bella Sara Company

Introduction

Welcome to your personal guide to the world of Bella Sara. If you are a newcomer to this most magical of places, here you will find everything you need to begin your journey through this wonderful land. If you are one of the thousands of people who have already discovered Bella Sara through its trading cards and website, then you will enjoy the chance to learn more about your favourite horses and their world. Either way, the Bella Sara horses are ready to inspire you with their joyful messages and welcome you to their world with love and friendship. In the following pages you can read in detail about the beginnings of the Bella Sara story, discover exciting facts about some of the amazing legendary horses, and be introduced to the many marvels of the Bella Sara world. You will also find hints about how to have fun nurturing your horses and playing games on the Bella Sara website, and learn more about collecting Bella Sara cards. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even a beautiful collectorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guide to help you record the progress of your card collection. With Bella at your side, let your imagination take flight and discover how love, courage, and wisdom can forge friendships to last a lifetime. Make the fabulous world of Bella Sara your world, forever!

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Introduction

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First published in the UK by HarperCollins Children’s Books in 2009 Written by Caroline Gott, Steve Conard, Mike Boozer, Michael Hacker and Beverly Marshall Saling 1 3 5 7 9 10 8 6 4 2 ISBN-13: 978-0-00-730384-7

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A CIP catalogue record for this title is available from the British Library. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of HarperCollins Publishers Ltd, 77-85 Fulham Palace Road, Hammersmith, London W6 8JB. www.harpercollinschildrensbooks.co.uk All rights reserved Artwork byAnita Soelver, Lykke Bianca Peterson, Brigitte Frier Stewart © 2008 Hidden City Games, Inc. © 2005-2008 conceptcard. All rights reserved. BELLA SARA is a trademark of conceptcard and used by Hidden City Games under license. Licensed by Granada Ventures Limited. www.bellasara.com. Hidden City Games and conceptcard reserve the right to modify and/or discontinue the website www.bellasara.com, or access thereto, at any time without notice. Printed and bound in China

Introduction

Ultimate Guide

With Bella at your side, let your imagination take flight and discover how love, courage, and wisdom can forge friendships to last a lifetime. Make the fabulous world of Bella Sara your world, forever! This book belongs to.........................................................

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Introduction

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The Story of Bella Sara North of North Sara, the Goddess of Horses The First Generation Feral The Sacred Seclusion The Rolanddotter Family The Wolf Riders The Valkyrie Sisterhood Trails End and the 100th Anniversary Horses of Legend Fable and the Patchwork Sigga Rolanddotter and Prince Archer The Rolanddotter Legacy The Horses of Bella Sara Horses in North of North Great Horses Iconic Horses Valkyrie Steeds The Iconic Horses Bella Fiona Jewel Nike Thunder

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24 25 26 27 28 30 32 34 36

The World of North of North Trails End Rolandsgaard Castle Canter Hollow Drasilmare: The World Tree Teardrop Lake Rolands Hold Arena Whitemantle Mountain Stonelory Starguide Lighthouse Overgaard Skylands Beyond Trails End Hestheim Magical Friends

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Bella Sara: The Game The Online World of Bella Sara Collecting Bella Sara Cards First Series Second Series Northern Lights Ancient Lights Native Lights Magical Friends Baby Bella

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Contents s

The Story of Bella Sara North of North The story of Bella Sara is set in North of North, a vast, magical continent not attached to any planet. It floats on a sea of light called Auroborus, which links North of North to other realms. Flying creatures who know the way can fly through Auroborus and come out in nearly any world they choose. Above all, North of North is the ancestral homeland of all horses. Long ago, the most magical horses belonged to one huge herd. Now these horsesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; descendants are scattered all across North of North, making their homes in all sorts of wondrous places â&#x20AC;&#x201D; underground oceans, floating skyislands, an immense sea of grass, and many more.

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Every living creature in North of North has its own magical aura, a colourful glow that surrounds it. This connection between all living things is the real magic in North of North.

Sara, the Goddess of Horses The story starts with a young girl named Sara. Although Sara looked ordinary enough, she and her parents were magical beings who lived among the mortals in North of North. Sara enjoyed exploring the countryside around her family’s home. One day a herd of horses approached her. The leader, a magnificent white mare, reared before Sara in salute. Any fear Sara felt melted away in the face of the mare’s grace and beauty. That mare was Bella. Bella was the first horse Sara had ever seen — and Sara was the first person Bella had met. It was love at first sight for Sara, who vowed always to care for horses.

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In a moment of perfect understanding and love, Sara reached out and stroked Bella’s neck. A shock of energy sparked between them, magically uplifting the horse and making her the greatest of her kind. Sara was transformed as well, becoming the immortal goddess of horses. This magical union between Sara and Bella became the model for bonds between children and horses in all future generations.

The First Generation Saraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s magical touch gave Bella wisdom and intelligence beyond that of any other creature. She also uplifted Bellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mate, Bello, an immense black stallion. Immediately the waiting herd reared in salute to the two uplifted horses. They recognized Bella and Bello as the greatest of all equines.

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In time, Sara uplifted all the horses in Bellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s herd and gave them names and magical powers that suited their personalities. These uplifted horses became known as the First Generation, and all equine bloodlines began with them.

Feral Unfortunately, Sara and the First Generation were not the only ones with magic. A dark force watched the horses, consumed with thoughts of conquest and corruption. If she could control the First Generation, their strong magic added to her own would let her rule North of North. Her name was Feral and her magical powers let her command all beastly creatures. Feral tried to tempt the uplifted horses to join her. They scorned the power she offered, so she set a trap to capture the entire herd. When all of the horses disappeared, Sara grew suspicious and started searching for her friends. Horrified to discover them in chains, she hurried to set them free — not knowing a sly wolf was watching her.

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When the wolf told Feral what Sara had done, she was so enraged that she wanted to kill Sara. But Sara had already used her magic to hide herself and the horses from Feral’s powers. Instead, Feral took her revenge on Sara’s parents. With that wicked act, Feral became the eternal enemy of Sara and her horse friends.

The Sacred Seclusion When Sara discovered her parents were dead, she collapsed with a grief so intense that she stopped aging. Hundreds of years passed while she cried for her parents. Her tears pooled together and slowly grew into a pond, which eventually became a lake known as Teardrop Lake. A sapling growing by the edge of the lake drank from Sara’s magical tears and grew to staggering proportions, stretching its roots throughout the continent. This tree became known as Drasilmare, the World Tree of North of North, and the area around Teardrop Lake and Drasilmare was named the Sacred Seclusion. In later years a garden called the Sacred Memories Garden would be planted here in memory of Sara’s parents.

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While Feral’s minions searched in vain for Sara and the horses, the First Generation stayed by Sara’s side, living their long lives under the canopy of the growing World Tree. They too drank the magic waters of Teardrop Lake, and over the years their magic grew ever stronger. Soon many of the horses developed new magical gifts. Some learned to walk on the wind, while others dove deep below the sea. While the horses enjoyed exploring their new powers, they worried that Sara would live in sadness forever.

The Rolanddotter Family In those days a group of women called Caregivers travelled the world helping those in need. One day a Caregiver named Mitka Rolanddotter and her daughter Sigga saw a magnificent white mare coming to meet them. She was Bella, the leader of the First Generation herd. Bella looked into their eyes and they saw a vision of a crying girl. Mitka and Sigga followed Bella to the Sacred Seclusion and comforted Sara, who told them her parents were dead. Mitka invited Sara to come with them and help others in need. Sara accepted, and from then on, Mitka, Sigga, and Mitkaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s husband Torben became Saraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new family.

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Gradually, the First Generation horses started showing up at the Rolanddotter home, and the family took them in as well. Sara taught Sigga everything she knew about horses. Soon the herd so overwhelmed their small farm that the Rolanddotters could no longer care for them all. Sara suggested that they give the horses to the Caregivers. The Caregivers were delighted; now they would be able to travel even greater distances to perform their duties. The Caregivers soon became expert horsewomen, and as the years passed their reputation and influence grew.

The Wolf Riders Eventually Feral heard of the Caregiversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fame and secretly joined the group, waiting for a chance to steal their horses. When Mitka died, Sigga, now a grown woman, was supposed to become the leader of the Caregivers. But Feral got the sisterhood arguing over who should be in charge. Then she offered her giant wolves as new, more powerful mounts for any Caregivers willing to follow her. Those who agreed abandoned their horses and became Wolf Riders. But Sigga and many others resisted, and Feral commanded the Wolf Riders to take them by force.

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Sigga and the remaining Caregivers escaped, but the Wolf Riders tracked them down and cornered them at the edge of a mountain cliff. Then Sara swept down from the skies on Bella, and all the Caregiversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; horses grew wings! Feral howled with rage as the Caregivers and their winged steeds flew out of her reach into the clouds. Ever since, Feralâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wolf Riders have struggled to destroy their former sisters.

The Valkyrie Sisterhood Sara gave the Caregivers a magnificent floating castle called Hestheim to use as their new home, and told them their horses would always keep the wings they had used to escape the Wolf Riders. Sara also granted the Caregivers immortality, along with a new name — the Valkyrie Sisterhood — and a new mission. From then on, their duty was to seek out and inspire heroes willing to protect the weak from the likes of Feral. The Valkyries called these things Sara’s Gift. Each Valkyrie chose a mortal world to protect and search for heroes. They also began writing the history of their deeds in journals called Ballads. Above all, they swore to remain united in their mission by the ideals of the Valkyrie Sisterhood: Always revere Sara’s Gift. Fulfil your own potential so you can help others fulfil theirs. Discover and inspire heroes to protect your world. Preserve the history of the Valkyries and their worlds at all costs.

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The Valkyries soon discovered that their horses’ new wings were just the beginning of Sara’s Gift. These Valkyrie steeds could change their shapes, sprouting wings to fly or fins to swim through the seas. As a symbol of Sara’s love for the Rolanddotter family, these horses held a greater purpose and majesty than other horses Sara influenced.

Trails End and the 100th Anniversary Because Sigga loved horses so much, she chose North of North as her world to protect. Sara applauded Siggaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choice and gave her a huge stretch of vibrant land that had originally belonged to Saraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents. Sigga built a majestic castle overlooking the estate and began populating its stables with a fabulous herd of magical horses. Caring for the horses reminded her of her childhood, when she and Sara worked with the horses that came to the Rolanddotter farm. Sigga decided to create a welcoming haven for both people and horses and she named her estate Trails End. The years passed swiftly, and soon it was time to mark the 100th anniversary of the Valkyrie Sisterhood. Sigga hosted a grand celebration at Trails End. All of the Valkyries were invited, and visitors from far and wide gathered in the lush valley. The greatest herd of horses that had ever assembled congregated in and around the castle grounds. The air was filled with magic, excitement, and a strange energy. Everyone felt that something remarkable was about to happen.

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As a tribute to Sara, Sigga commissioned an artist to sculpt two monuments of Bella and Bello into the faces of the giant mountain pass that towered over the valley. The presentation of the Bella and Bello Monuments was the dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crowning glory for Sigga. But for four yearling horses, the significance of that celebration paled next to another epic event that would shape the world to come.

Horses of Legend Gathered at Trails End for the anniversary celebration, Fiona, Jewel, Thunder, and Nike met by chance at Teardrop Lake. As they introduced themselves, a young girl entered the garden and knelt to read the inscription on the memorial fountain that stood by the peaceful waters: ‘Every tear is a memory of a love shared.’

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The horses noticed a reflection in the water and looked up to see a beautiful white mare, Bella, walking across the surface of the lake. As Bella approached the girl, the four yearlings recognised her as Sara, goddess of horses. Sara turned to Fiona, Jewel, Thunder, and Nike and greeted them all by name. At that moment a magical image shimmered on the lake’s surface: a picture of a woman weaving in front of a great tapestry. Looking closer, the yearlings saw the tapestry showed all of them, with Bella rearing up dramatically at their centre. The horses sensed that their meeting that day was no coincidence. They shared a magical bond, and their destinies would be forever united in a grand and epic cause.

Fable and the Patchwork Sara told the four yearlings that the woman in the vision was the immortal storyteller Fable. Sara had met Fable once before, and Fable had given her a magical book called the Patchwork, in which stories of the past, present, and future are written. Sara had read part of her own story and learned she was destined to bring hope and wisdom to those who struggled against evil and adversity. Later, Sara had used pages from the Patchwork to create the Valkyriesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ballads, so they could contribute to its great stories.

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As Sara finished her tale, Fable looked up from her weaving and smiled at Sara and the horses, beckoning them to look at the changing images in her tapestry. First they saw Sigga Rolanddotter gazing lovingly into the eyes of a knightly prince. Then they saw Sigga flying into battle to rescue the prince from giant wolves. Next they saw Sigga and the prince in a fire lit room, their faces full of sorrow.

Finally they saw several images in quick succession: the prince captive in a shadowed castle, an aging Sigga walking alone down a strange road, and Trails End neglected and forlorn. Sara and the horses were horrified by these terrible images, but when they found the courage to look again at the tapestry, they learned that all hope was not yet lost. Sara saw that she herself would watch over North of North for Sigga, until one day she would find a girl on wings who could right these horrible wrongs. Fable’s tapestry also showed that Bella, Fiona, Jewel, Thunder, and Nike would become legendary horses, and that Sara and the girl would need their help to heal all the wounds — past, present, and future — revealed in the tapestry.

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As the images of Fable and her tapestry faded from the surface of the lake, Sara and the horses looked at each other with courage and determination. Dark times were coming, but together they would set their world right again.

Sigga Rolanddotter & Prince Archer As an immortal Valkyrie, Sigga was forbidden to interfere in the natural course of life and death. Along with the other Valkyries, she had sworn to Alfather, king of the gods, that she would help mortal heroes fulfil their potential and meet their fates. But Sigga fell in love with Prince Archer and could not bear to see him die. Swooping down to snatch her prince from the jaws of Feral’s wolves, Sigga interfered with Archer’s mortal destiny. This brought Alfather’s wrath down upon the House of Rolanddotter, changing its future forever.

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Alfather decreed that Sigga and Prince Archer could be married and live together for one year, but after that, they must part forever. Archer would become immortal but be locked away in a distant castle, while Sigga would become mortal and be banished to Earth, never to see her beloved prince again. Alfather also commanded that Sigga’s line would produce only sons, with no daughter to take her place among the Valkyrie Sisterhood. Only one seed of hope remained: one day a girl would be born to Sigga’s line, and she would change everything.

The Rolanddotter Legacy After Sigga’s downfall, the Valkyrie Sisterhood turned its back on North of North, and the once-great estate at Trails End fell into dark times. Generations of stewards did their best to maintain the castle and its grounds, but everyone longed for the return of Sigga’s line and the restoration of the House of Rolanddotter to its former glory. Sara, too, bided her time. Fable’s tapestry had explained she must await the arrival of Sigga’s heir. Sara would help this girl claim her rightful place among her Valkyrie sisters, and in turn the girl would protect North of North forever.

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Almost a thousand years passed before the prophecy came true and Sigga’s long-awaited manygreats-granddaughter was born. Her name was Emma Roland. Bella and Sara’s mission to help Emma discover her birthright and redeem her family honour begins the next chapter in the sweeping story of the world of Bella Sara.

The Horses of Bella Sara Horses in North of North Since North of North is the ancestral homeland of all horses, horses here are naturally the best and brightest of their kind. Every horse in North of North has been touched by magic, and even the most normal-looking horse has at least one small magical gift all its own. Sometimes it just takes a while for the horse to discover what it is. All horses in North of North share some common traits that set them apart from regular horses. First, their life spans are much longer. They live at least as long as humans do, and many live for hundreds of years or even longer. Horses in North of North are also much smarter than other horses. They can learn, remember, wonder, imagine, and figure things out much like people do.

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Horses in North of North are smart enough to understand human speech, but they don’t talk themselves. Instead, they use a magical ability called horse-sharing. Horse-sharing lets horses share mental pictures with people, horses, or other animals, so they can ‘tell’ others what they’re thinking. Anyone who has a bond with a particular horse can also pick up the horse’s emotions from these pictures. For horses, horse-shared pictures are even clearer than words.

Great Horses Some horses have such strong magic that anyone can tell just by looking that they are extra special. People in North of North sometimes call them ‘great horses.’ Many great horses are inherently magical, like unicorns, underwater horses, and horses with wings. Others look like ordinary horses but have special clothes, decorations, or glowing auras that hint at their magical gifts.

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Great horses’ magic can express itself in a wide variety of ways. Some gifts, like Embarr’s ability to walk on water, are shared by several of the great horses. Others are unique, like Mireldis’s ability to brew magical potions that heal those who are sick or hurt. Many truly great horses have more than one gift. For example, Amor can both fly and inspire love in those around him.

Legendary Horses

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Even among the great horses, a few stand out from the herd. Fiona, Jewel, Nike, and Thunder all have strong magical gifts and have used them to do many great deeds. As the tales of their adventures spread throughout North of North, people began calling them ‘the legendary horses.’ Though these legendary horses’ magic is no more spectacular than some of the other great horses, their bravery, wisdom, and eagerness to help others have earned them the respect of every creature in North of North. Some even say that, like the stories of their heroic deeds, the legendary horses have become immortal.

Valkyrie Steeds The most magical of all horses in North of North are the Valkyrie steeds. The First Generation of magical horses uplifted by Sara, they became Valkyrie steeds as part of Sara’s Gift to the Valkyries. All Valkyrie steeds are immortal and share such an intense bond with their riders that they always know approximately where their riders are and what they are feeling. They can also change shape, becoming air, water, or land horses as needed to carry their riders wherever they want to go. And Valkyrie steeds are the only ones who can find the secret location of Hestheim, the Valkyries’ floating castle.

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Along with these shared abilities, each Valkyrie steed also has his or her own magical gifts. For example, Valkrist, Sigga’s steed, can touch two creatures with the tips of his wings and create or strengthen a bond of love between them.

Bella s

Think positive every day! Feel the bliss of joy and energy that comes with it. Bella was the first horse Sara ever met, and she is still the most extraordinary horse in North of North. She can gallop through air and water, and fly through the sea of light called Auroborus into other worlds. Bella is Saraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own steed. She is white with black highlights, and the rainbow glow of Auroborus shimmers around her. These glowing, iridescent lights are visible signs of her magical gift: inspiring hope in everyone she meets. Bellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s character traits are: motherly, nurturing, majestic, loyal, joyous, accepting, and free. Bellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s animal companion is the orca and her magical friend is the regal starstone otter.

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Bella reminds us that keeping our thoughts positive brings us joy and energy for living. Problems do not last forever.

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Fiona s

Be the hero in your own story. Fiona was created when Sara read her story from the Patchwork and then tossed the page into a roaring bonfire. Born of fire and imagination, she feels at home with flame and heat. Fionaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s character traits are: heroic, clever, commanding, charismatic, encouraging, wise, and focused. Fionaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s animal companion is the cunning raven, and her magical friend is the quixie faun.

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In your life, you will face many problems. Fiona reminds you that you can be the hero of your story and meet your challenges with courage and wisdom.

Jewel s

I will help you to stay in a steady flow of abundance. Jewel was a statue sculpted in gold and gems until Sara’s magic brought her to life. Her magic is visible in the collection of diamonds that form a pattern on her face. Jewel’s character traits are: generous, radiant, dreamy, caring, friendly, energetic, and positive. Jewel’s magical friend is the gemdigger dog, and her animal companion is a beautiful snow-white swan.

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Sometimes we feel bad because we want things we can’t have. Jewel reminds us that we live in a bountiful world, and we can get what we need if we’re willing to reach for it.

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Nike s

Have the courage to trust yourself. Nike was born on Mount Olympus among the horse herds of the Greek gods. Her magic is steeped in the spirit of competition and victory based on personal excellence. Nikeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s character traits are: noble, superior, flamboyant, confident, dutiful, hardworking, and ambitious. Nikeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s special gift to those she favours is good luck. Her magic is visible in the angelic butterfly fairies that circle her and the multicoloured gossamer ribbons she wears.

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Sometimes we all hear a voice inside us, telling us that something isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t right for us or our world. Nike reminds us to trust our inner voices and be brave enough to do the right thing.

Thunder s

I give you courage. Now you can release your fears. Thunder was born during a storm in the mountains and took his first steps in a swirl of wind, rain, and lightning. Thunder is a black stallion, and his magic is visible in the lightning marking on his flank. Thunderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s animal companion is the sly but loyal fox. His special magical friend is the proud blackcomb lion. Thunderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s character traits are: rough, strong, courageous, solitary, independent, passionate, and unpredictable.

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Fear can keep us from doing the things we need to do to grow. Thunder offers you the courage to step outside your comfort zone and learn new things.

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The World of North of North s Trails End

Trails End, Sigga’s estate, is the most important and famous place in North of North. More like a county than a personal estate, it contains a variety of human villages and natural spaces and serves as the unofficial capital of North of North. After Sigga’s banishment, the people of Trails End did their best to carry on, but they miss the days of Valkyrie magic.

Rolandsgaard Castle

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Rolandsgaard Castle is the centre of Trails End and the family seat of the House of Rolanddotter. Rows and rows of stables fill the castle’s yard, and beneath is a series of underground sea caves that shelter the castle’s water horses. In Sigga’s absence the steward has maintained Rolandsgaard’s daily routines, but only barely. In all of Trails End, the castle has missed its mistress most.

Canter Hollow Canter Hollow is the largest town in Trails End, nestled in the shadow of Rolandsgaard Castle. Its stillthriving market district bustles with cafés and shops selling exotic goods from all over North of North. With the decline of Rolandsgaard, Canter Hollow has also become the centre of culture in Trails End, boasting a museum, a university, a well-stocked library, and a village theatre.

Drasilmare – The World Tree

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Drasilmare, the World Tree of North of North, is its spiritual heart. Nourished by the magical waters of Teardrop Lake, Drasilmare’s root systems have extended throughout the continent, allowing the tree to draw knowledge — and magic — from every corner of the land. The tree has also grown to huge proportions — big enough to function as a city in itself, with all kinds of structures hanging like tree houses from its limbs or nestled into the curves of its branches and roots. Visitors to Trails End often stay in one of its guest manors: Skyloft for flying creatures and Hearthroot for land-based people.

Teardrop Lake

Teardrop Lake, in the shade of Drasilmare, was formed by the tears of Sara, goddess of horses and patron of the Valkyries. It drains into Teardrop Falls, whose waters carved the Goddesswall, an image of Sara, from the stone cliffs over which they flow. Teardrop Lake also feeds the Mouths of the World, an underground cave system where many of Trails End’s wild aquatic horses live.

Rolands Hold Arena

Mount Whitemantle

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Mount Whitemantle is the highest mountain peak in North of North. The Bella and Bello Monuments, two giant heads depicting legendary horses, were carved from solid granite outcroppings along its western slope. Whitemantle Glacier extends below the mountain into Horseshoe Bay, which connects Trails End to the sea.

Rolands Hold Arena, called simply ‘the Hold’ by locals, is a magnificent horseshoe-shaped coliseum originally built by Sigga to host major equestrian events. Since then it has also been used for all manner of games and competitions, theatrical presentations, and concerts.

Starguide Lighthouse Created from a single gigantic seashell, Starguide Lighthouse gets its unique light from a brilliant star ruby, hewn from the heart of Stonelory, which rotates at the top of the lighthouse.

Stonelory

Once a famous gem mine beneath the southern part of Darkcomb Forest, Stonelory now serves as a water tunnel connecting Horseshoe Bay and Rolandsgaard Castle. Its walls still glitter with embedded stones of all kinds.

Overgaard Skylands

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A rich archipelago of islands floats high above Trails End. Some of the islands are uninhabited, but the rest are occupied by aerial stables, farms, and wild flying horses.

Beyond Trails End Beyond Trails End lie other lands, populated by diverse human cultures and all kinds of plants and animals. Each region forms its own prosperous society. Small villages and farmsteads dot the land, and trade between these communities is always brisk. Large market festivals are held annually, and people travel from far away to trade for the things they will need over the coming year, or buy them with tiny, sparkling â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;horseshoes.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; The people share a common, horse-centric heritage, but adopt unique customs.

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The natural world of North of North is stunningly beautiful in land, sea, and sky. The Auroborus on which North of North floats drapes the sky in a constant rainbow of shimmering cosmic light. Stargazers may observe planets with the naked eye, and comets, shooting stars, and other wonders remind them of the active solar system beyond their floating continent.

Hestheim

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Hestheim is the Valkyriesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; great fortress, hidden deep in a cloudbank floating over a volcanic crater. The exact location of Hestheim is a well-guarded secret, and only a Valkyrie steed can find it. Within Hestheim is the Great Hall, a massive circular chamber where the Valkyries meet. Its walls are lined with alcoves in which the Valkyries place symbolic offerings to renew the magic and vitality of each Valkyrie House.

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Magical Friends The term â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;magical friendsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; refers to various enchanted creatures that live in North of North. Magical friends live in harmony with humans and horses alike. These adorable creatures are much, much more than mere animals. Glowing with magic, they are as smart as humans, and some have special magical powers of their own. Befriending one of these sweet creatures is considered good luck and a sign that you are a decent, honourable person. Magical friends come in all shapes and sizes, each with their own unique talents. For example, tomtommes are mousy critters who can make music with their ears and keep a beat with their tails. Citrustacks, living miniature haystacks that come in every colour of the rainbow, are relentless little housekeepers. They can also change their size at will and fit inside each other like upside-down stacking bowls. Finlings live in the deep ocean. They have a bright light at the end of a stalk upon their heads to help them see.

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While some might regard them as pets, magical friends are much more than that to most people. Humans and horses form natural bonds with magical friends, and they, in turn, have become part of the culture in North of North.

a r a S a l l e B Herds

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“With wisdom and love above all.”

Herd Bellasara

The realm of Herd Bellasara is the whole of North of North, a magical continent that floats on a sea of light. This wonderful place is scattered with underground oceans, floating sky-islands and lush seas of grass. High Queen Bella, the first and greatest of horses, rules over North of North. Every horse is descended from members of Herd Bellasara, named to honour Bella’s special bond with Sara, the goddess of horses.

Bella’s wisdom is legendary and she encourages the horses in her herd to become wiser by trying to understand the world around them. Only those horses whose wise minds are matched with loving hearts can be granted the Order of Bella.

Bella

Other Herd Bellasara horses include: Bellissa, Bryda, Seraphia, Wings

Artwork by: Jennifer L. Meyer and Spoops

Legendary Horse:

“Lighting the spark within.”

Herd Shahazar

The horses of Herd Shahazar live in Autumn Sands, a huge dessert of great beauty. Autumn Sands begins north-east of Trails End and reaches to the shores of Withers Sea at the northernmost edge of North of North.

The dessert gets its name from the magnificent sand dunes that change colour with the seasons. They are shades of blue in the winter, pretty pastels in the spring and sparkling white in the summer. But the golden colours of autumn are when the dunes look the most magical.

Artwork by: Rikke Lindskov Loft, Tanja Kreutzfeld and Fie Tholander

In the middle of this vast dessert lies Shahazar Castle, a beautiful sandstone building surrounded by palm trees.

Herd Shahazar horses honour Fiona’s creativity. They express themselves through art and create works of imagination that inspire others. Horses that show exceptional creative thinking are awarded with the Order of Fiona and are invited to join the nobility of Herd Shahazar – the greatest honour for a horse in this realm.

Legendary Horse:

Fiona

Other Herd Shahazar horses include: Farah, Nasim, Shamal, Sirocco

“Open hearts, open hands.”

Herd Islander

Equinesia, the realm of Herd Islander, lies just beyond the Equinesia Islands, beneath the tropical waters of the Celestial Deep, at the far eastern edge of North of North. In this magical underwater kingdom, colourful fish play hide-and-seek among the anemones, while seahorses graze on a lush green grass called sweetwater. The beautiful buildings have grown from coral and are decorated with pretty seashells. Lit by glowing sea jewels, the Islander Castle is the most spectacular sight in the realm.

Legendary Horse:

Jewel

Other Herd Islander: horses include: Coral, Edana, Kona, Kora

Artwork by: Louise Christensen, Spoops and Fie Tholander

The horses of Herd Islander honour Jewel’s generosity and kindness. They believe it is important to share kind words, warm feeings and cheerful help with everyone they meet. To be granted the Order of Jewel and join the nobility of Herd Islander, horses must give freely and show outstanding kindness.

“Flying ever higher.”

Herd Airistos

The horses of Herd Airistos live on the Windhome Skylands, a chain of islands that float over the waters of Naastrand Sound. The smaller islands at the north end run all the way to Trails End, where they connect to the Overgaard Skylands. The larger islands in the south are filled with pretty blossoms and enchanting waterfalls that cascade from one island to the next. The islands’ buildings are white with tiled roofs and beautiful open courtyards. On the largest and highest island sits Airistos Castle, watching over the realm.

Artwork by: Tanja Kreutzfeld, Jennifer L. Meyer, Julie Myfors and Lykke Bianca Petersen

Herd Airistos horses honour Nike’s quest for excellence. They strive to give their best to everything they do and love learning new things. Horses that achieve especially worthy goals are granted the Order of Nike and invited to join the nobility of Herd Airistos.

Legendary Horse:

Nike

Other Herd Airistos horses include: Anemone, Cirra, Honora, Uranus

“Brave words, brave deeds.”

Herd Valeryk

In the heart of North of North lie the Midwinter Mountains, a circle of towering peaks surrounded by a huge ice lake. It is here that the horses of Herd Valeryk live, among the evergreen trees and glaciers. It is always winter in the mountains and shedderpups and snugglefrizzes play on the snowy slopes. Every home has a roaring fire to keep away the chill.

The horses of Herd Valeryk honour Thunder’s courage. They protect others, are brave when faced with challenges and won’t give up until they succeed. To be granted the Order of Thunder, the greatest honour for a Herd Valeryk horse, amazing Legendary courage must be shown. Horse:

Thunder

Other Herd Valeryk horses include: Gracie, Iceking, Sleetmane, Snowdreamer

Artwork by: Jennifer L. Meyer, Julie Myrfors, Lykke Bianca Petersen, Birgitte Frier Stewart and Rebecca A. Wrigley

Valeryk Castle, on the shore of Lake Wintermere, is a magnificent building with pretty pointed turrets. Nearby is a bubbling hot spring, one of the only warm spots in the realm.

“Helping good things grow.”

Herd Sunflower

The horses of Herd Sunflower live in Jasmine Forest, a lush woodland paradise full of leafy trees and berry bushes. The tall trees form a shady canopy over the forest trails and in the fields, the sun shines down on blankets of beautiful flowers. In the heart of Jasmine Forest is Petalhome Castle, a living castle made from a circle of towering trees whose branches have grown together to form walls and rooms. In the central courtyard, the magnificent Mothertree stands tall and proud. The tree’s magic gives energy to the forest and its horses.

Artwork by: Jennifer L. Meyer, Lykke Bianca Petersen, John Shroades and Spoops

Herd Sunflower horses honour the virtue of stewardship. They love taking care of nature and using their magic to help plants grow. Horses that protect nature and make especially good use of their talents are awarded the Order of Sunflower and are invited to join the nobility of this great herd.

Legendary Horse:

Sunflower

Other Herd Sunflower horses include: Beran, Bluebell, Flora, Rosebriar

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Seeing the deeper truth.â&#x20AC;?

Herd Moonfairy

The realm of Herd Moonfairy is the magical wilderness of the Emeraldian Wilds, an enchanting place filled with evergreen forests and mystical islands. Fairy folk and magical friends live in giant mushrooms, under grassy hills or hanging from thick tree branches.

In this magical kingdom, paths appear and disappear, curiously shaped fairy doors take travellers to distant realms and seven colourful moons cast an enchanting glow.

The horses of Herd Moonfairy know that there is more to things than meets the eye. They honour the virtue of insight and look beneath the surface to find the hidden truth. Some say Moonfairy horses are born lucky, but it is their deep understanding of the world that helps them make their own luck.

Legendary Horse:

Moonfairy

Other Herd Moonfairy horses include: Lillova, Mireldis, Osage, Twig

Artwork by: Anita Laustsen, Jennifer L. Meyer, John Shroades, Spoops and Heather Theurer

On the Island of Isluv stands Feywynd Castle, a glittering crystal castle shaped by fairy magic.

“Ask, explore, discover.”

Herd Starlight The Daybreak Mountains, named because of the way they glow just before sunrise, are at the centre of the realm of Herd Starlight. This small but steep range of volcanic peaks rises up from the Ocean of Lights. On top of Starlights Bell, a magnificent granite dome dotted with crystals, sits Dawnstar Castle. This star-shaped castle is known for the six Dawnstar jewels that float above its great towers, making it look like the castle is wearing a crown.

Artwork by: Aaron Panagos, Anita Soelver, Heather Theurer, Fie Tholander, Spoops, , Phil Trumbo and Peter Moehrle

Herd Starlight horses honour the virtue of curiosity. They love asking questions and aren’t afraid to keep looking for answers, no matter where their search takes them. For Starlights, every unexplored idea or place offers a chance to discover something great.

Legendary Horse:

Starlight

Other Herd Starlight horses include: Aurora, Empress, Lukan, Star

“Strength, achievement, endurance.”

Herd Pantheon

In the centre of the realm of Herd Pantheon is the Universe Tree – a huge tree-shaped cloud with roots that reach into every world in the universe. A long time ago, Pantheon made friends with the gods and goddesses who built their homes in the tree’s magical branches. Now he and his herd roam among their mythical worlds.

Pantheon founded this herd to honour the virtue of strength. The horses of Herd Pantheon strive for strength of body, mind, heart and character. They seek out challenges and work until they have built up the strength to overcome them. Legendary Horse:

Pantheon

Other Herd Pantheon horses include: Armor, Athena, Harmony, Venus

Artwork by: Terese Nielsen, Lykke Bianca Petersen, Cindy Price, Anita Soelver, Heather Theurer, Fe Tholander, Phil Trumbo and Peter Moehrle

The herd’s home is Parthamane Castle, at the eye of the Horsehead Peninsula. This mighty stone building has an inner courtyard where Herd Pantheon horses test their strengths in sports, artistic performances and contests of skill.

“Uniting in harmony.”

Herd Elemyn

The horses of Herd Elemyn live in Esotara, a realm that floats beneath North of North. Brave travellers sail or fly off the edges of the world to reach this magical place. In this enchanting realm, trees may be made of ice, rivers of flickering blue flames and birds of sparkling gemstones. Each of Esotara’s five regions is devoted to a different element – wind, fire, earth, air or magic. In the middle of the regions stands Elemyn Castle, floating on a moat of pure light. Herd Elemyn is a varied herd made up of water horses, air horses, fire horses, earth horses and many others. They honour the virtue of harmony and work together to combine their different gifts to do new and greater things.

Legendary Horse:

Artwork by: Spoops

Elemyn

Other Herd Elemyn horses include: Chromasia, Diamond, Lien, Soot

“Freedom with honour.”

Herd Mustang The horses of Herd Mustang don’t like to be tied down. They don’t claim any single land as their realm and can be found in all parts of the world. They feel most at home in wild and lonely places such as the highest mountain, the deepest ocean and the most overgrown wilderness. Even the herd’s castle doesn’t like to stay in one place. Wildscape Castle rises into the air and flies to wherever Herd Mustang horses have chosen to meet. Mustang founded this herd of wild horses to honour the virtue of freedom. Mustangs choose to follow their own paths and believe that true freedom belongs only to those with the self-control to use it wisely. Unlike other herds, Mustangs don’t grant noble orders – all honourable, free-spirited horses are welcome to call themselves members of the herd.

Legendary Horse:

Other Herd Mustang horses include: Ruskin, BabyBella, Brumby, Serilda

Artwork by: Spoops

Mustang

Artwork by:

Introduction

Artwork by:

Do you love horses? Do you dream of riding and caring for these beautiful creatures, and wonder at the exciting adventures you might share? Then come visit the fantastical realm of North of North, floating on a sea of light, and home to the most majestic horses you will ever see. Come enter the world of …Bella Sara! Celebrate the timeless connection between girls and horses with this gorgeous companion guide to the world of Bella Sara, where positive thought and caring for others opens a magical doorway into the imagination. www.harpercollinschildrensbooks.co.uk

£7.99 Artwork by:

This book is proudly printed on paper which contains wood from well managed forests, certified in accordance with the rules of the Forest Stewardship Council. www.fsc-uk.org Artwork by Spoops© 2008 Hidden City Games, Inc. © 2005-2008 conceptcard. All rights reserved. BELLA SARA is a trademark of conceptcard and used by Hidden City Games under license. Licensed by Granada Ventures Limited. www.bellasara.com

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