Dragon Knight of Eldaria

Albion, Caerleon, 55th Year Reign of Artorius Pendragon

It felt like centuries had passed since the war against the Dragon Overlords during the Age

of Dragons. Born from a noble mother and to a dragon, Uther the White Dragon

Lord. Artorius was the first Draconid to exist in the world. It was because of

this power that he was able to fight against the dragons that plagued the land,

yet he could not do it alone. In order to accomplish this he enlisted the aid

of a few knights and his best friend Myrddin, the most powerful sorcerer who

had ever lived in that era. After their victory over the dragons Artorius and

his companions would be instrumental in unifying all of Albion to push back the

incursions of the raiding Vikgardians.

Thanks to this act

Artorius was crowned High King of Albion and with that he brought peace to the

realm. It did not last forever as a usurper, his own son Medraut, tried to take

his thrown and even though Artorius was successful it came at a great cost.

Within the castle walls of Caerleon, Artorius would find himself wandering through

the halls remembering happier simpler days and now he felt there was nothing

left for him save for his only heir. After these strolls he would eventually

find himself in a wooded sanctuary enclosed within the walls of the castle.

From there he would look upon a grave that bore the inscription.

"Morgiana, First Queen of United Albion"

Artorius looked

upon the grave for sometime until his train of thought was interrupted by a

presence. Thankfully this presence held no malice or thoughts of murder and

knew that it was someone that was trying to give him space, but that was not

what he needed right now.

"You can come out

now old friend," Artorius said.

There was a small

subtle breeze of the wind and when he turned around there was a man standing in

front of him. He wore strange robes that glittered like the night sky and bore

a staff that was emitting magical energy. The man himself looked youthful with

fair skin and a square jaw, save for the gray streaks on his brown hair, but he

carried himself as if he lived many years now. The most distinguishing features

about him were his silver eyes.

"I am sorry I did

not wish to disturb you," he said.

"It is not a bother

Myrddin. I prefer the company" Artorius replied staring back at the gravestone.

"I wish she was

here too. I wish everyone were all here" Myrddin said.

"With all that has

happened I feel ashamed to even be king or even if I deserve to hold the title

after what transpired in the civil war."

"Sire?" Myrddin

asked.

"Along with the

death of many of our companions and my wife I was forced to kill my eldest son

Medraut and I couldn't save my sister Elaine."

"That was not your

fault Artorius. Mages were being hunted and killed. The other kings knew that

your power did not extend to their lands hence you could do nothing no matter

how much Elaine tried to get you involved." Myrddin said.

"I thought by

sending one of my trusted knights as a messenger that these hunts would cease.

When they did not my sister took action by killing a king from another land.

Even when they demanded her head I goaded her to be an outlaw and save as many

mages as she could and bring them to Caerleon. Yet she was led astray by Rowena

who only wanted to use Elaine's talents for her own end."

"Be glad that

Gringelot was there to stop her from going any further with those attacks."

"Gringelot. I lost

a good friend too because of my inaction" Artorius argued.

"We can continue

throwing blame, but no matter how we look at it we were fooled. Even my powers

of foresight could not see what was to come. Rowena was devious and powerful,

but now she is dead. Let us just be thankful that the realm is now at peace"

said Myrddin.

"Yet for how long?

So much is changing now that the dragons are gone. I hear that there is a new

religion that is surfacing dedicated to Nimue and to the south there are those

claiming a Creator to be the one true god. How long until we are fighting

amongst ourselves about what religion we should practice? If I am being honest

this all sounds like a farce. Do you know anything about this?"

"I know very little

at this time sire. Besides I thought it best that I do not get involved due to

my history with Nimue. I would rather not make any rash decision based on the

ravings of mad men" Myrddin replied.

"True enough. How

is my younger son?" Artorius asked trying o change the subject.

"He is doing well.

He has completed many trials while gaining the support of the Archdukes and the

people. The kings from the other realms see him as a more appropriate

successor. He has even mastered that new form of magic your sister created,

Dragonslayer Magic" Myrddin replied.

"I'm glad. I was

not sure if he would be able to handle that kind of magic since it can over

come the user if used too much."

"Let us be thankful

Morgiana. She was of the fey folk after all. So her bloodline mixed with yours

will allow all your descendants to be able to wield the power of Dragonslayer

Magic. Although there are fewer dragons to fight, it will still be an

instrumental skill for them to know. I have foreseen it and it will be a long

reign for the House of Pendragon" Myrddin explained.

"I thank you

Myrddin. I'm glad to know that my House will endure, but I think it might be

time for me to step down and hand the kingdom over to my son."

"Sire?" Myrddin asked passively.

"I have barely aged

for some time thanks to my heritage and I have ruled for fifty-five years now.

If I rule any longer other parties might grow suspicious and even try to take

the throne for themselves and another civil war will occur. I did not want a

kingdom where others would constantly be fighting for power."

"They won't. I will

make sure of it as will your heirs. You will be needed elsewhere" Myrddin

replied.

"It would seem I

was always needed. You do not seem so surprised that I wish to step down. Am I

to believe that you foresaw this event?" Artorius said.

"Yes I did and many

others. I have already made preparations for those events. I pray that my

involvement will be of some assistance to those who will need it."

"That reminds me.

Were you able to locate the amulets?" Artorius asked.

"The amulets have

all been recovered. Now it is just a matter of sealing them away. At this time

it would not be wise to search for new bearers."

"I understand.

Better that they be hidden than allow them to fall into unworthy hands."

"There will be

others to claim the burden one day, but not for a long time, old friend" said

Myrddin.

As Myrddin

finished his explanation Artorius clenched the golden hilt of his own sword.

The sword was dubbed "Caliburn" and combined with the soul of a dragon and the

magic of the fey folk, it was considered one of the most powerful weapons in

existence. Even so, with his kingdom fully established and with others to carry

on the torch Artorius now felt sure he could leave it in the capable hands of

his oldest friend and son.

It would be a new

day not just for Albion, but for Artorius as well. After finishing the last of

his duties as king and saying farewell to his son, Artorius stood from his

throne, placed his crown on the throne, took up Caliburn and walked out of the

castle and into the city with nothing but travelling cloths and a few days

worth of food. He strode down the path towards the market square where folk

bartered with loud voices, while hearing the merrymaking of children playing in

the streets as he had done in his youth many years before. Further down the

road he saw men gambling or sparring with one another while womenfolk gossiped

amongst each other about their day. Artorius saw life continuing on, in all its

glory as he walked by unnoticed by all.

Through the iron

gates he walked, seeing carts rumble past bringing trade and wealth into his

growing city. On the fields he saw men and women on either side sowing seeds

from baskets. He saw sheep and goats grazing peacefully while being watched by

the shepherds. He passed foresters as they cleared the roads of fallen branches

and laid traps for game and as he passed through the forest he looked back and

saw a massive kingdom, which were connected by roads in all directions. Through

this the kingdom would thrive from the spread of news and prosperity. From his

own efforts, Artorius was able to unite the ten kingdoms together to form one.

Yet he knew that the unity he created was more than one man and any one

dynasty, even if there was a king to rule them all.

"So beautiful is it

not?" Artorius asked.

"Quite so sire"

said Myrddin, who appeared from behind.

"I did not think

you would notice me gone."

"I will always keep

an eye on you Artorius" Myrddin replied.

"But now its time

you watch my son. He will need you in the days ahead" Artorius replied.

"He is capable. He

has proven to be a worthy heir."

"Yes, Albion will

require the heirs of the Dragon and yet even a king might struggle. The kingdom

will not just need a king, but heroes. Everyone who fights and bleeds to

protect Albion can be a hero as well no matter their station" Artorius said.

"Truer words old

friend. I pray that these heroes you speak of will rise to the challenge."

"Do you have any

final words for me Myrddin?" Artorius asked.

"I will say but

this, that it has been a privilege to have known you Artorius Pendragon. The

journey we have shared will live long in the minds of man for centuries to

come."

"I pray we see each

other again. In this life or at the Gates of Avalon" said Artorius.

"You will see me

again, in one form or another" Myrddin replied.

With that the

former High King of Albion walked away never looking back once. Where he would

go no one was sure, but it was for the best since now that he had disappeared

their enemies hiding in the shadows would have to rethink any plans that they

might have had. In time Myrddin would deal with these shadows, but as Artorius

had said there must be heroes as well as kings. Myrddin glanced into the

horizon until Artorius disappeared from view then Myrddin looked back into the

lands of Albion.

"Now then, it would

seem that I have much work to attend to. No rest for the weary it would seem"

he chuckled.

Year

1325 Dukedom of Jorvik, Kingdom of Angoland

On a normal day

people would be waking up to tend to the fields, begin making the bread for the

customers, or even training within the military barracks. The lives of peasants

are toiling, but there is not much they can do within their station of life.

Any of them would have been lucky to be born within a noble family. One such

man by the name of Clayton was one of the few lucky ones to be elevated to such

a higher station. He was originally a peasant farmer within the Dukedom of

Iclinga, but that all changed when an Orok Chieftain was raiding the lands.

Because of his long years as a farmer he gained a strong physique and was able

to the defeat the chieftain. When he was presented to the High King of Albion

he saw great use in the man other than a farmer.

Since he had no

family name the king granted him a name of a house that was long dead. He was

awarded as Clayton Marshal from the House of Marshal, Knight of the Realm and

Warden of the Dunmedler Borderland that separated Angoland and the Kingdom of

Scotia. The two nations have held great animosity toward each other for

centuries so it was best to keep the peace at their borders. Clayton Marshals'

other duty however was to make sure no threats ever crossed either side. Such a

task should not be taken lightly. The Kingdoms of Albion were under constant

threats from bandits, bestial Orks, witches, and other creatures that have yet

to be seen.

However, that is

not the life for a noble woman, whose main goal in life is to be seen to the

statecraft, socializing with other lords from other courts, then one day become

the wife of a lord and produce him an heir. Normally most do not have an issue

with this, but Henrietta Marshal is anything but normal. With her long brown

hair, blue eyes, prominent cheekbones, small nose and slender body one might

have thought she was from one of the higher born nobles. Her father, Clayton

always made sure she was comfortable, but it felt too comfortable. Every

morning had been the same. The moment she woke up her servants attend to her

needs where they help her dress, groom her and bring her breakfast. Then it's

off to the governess who will teach her the proper etiquettes of being a

'Lady', such as knitting, politics, horse-riding and even dancing. Dancing she

enjoyed, but what she really wanted to do was learn how to use a sword.

When she was just

a girl, she would borrow a sword from the armory and try to teach herself how

to properly use it, but to no avail. Her father would catch her in the act and

tried to dissuade her from doing it again. For a time she did, due to the fact

her father was gone for many hours in the day patrolling the Borderland as was

his duty and anything she might have done wrong would reflect on him. Her older

brother would go with their father as he was expected to take up the position.

Now coming to her twentieth name day, she was to be married off, but to whom

that decision laid with her father. Such a future for her was not at all

appealing.

"Pay attention

Henrietta" said the governess as she struck the floor with her cane.

"Apologies, my mind

was somewhere else" Henrietta replied.

"I would advise

that you get out of that habit especially when you become the wife of a lord"

the governess said with scorn.

"Why do I even have

to become the wife of a lord? What does this do for me?" Henrietta asked in

frustration.

"It's not suppose

to do anything for you. It is expected of you to perform your duties for the

good of the realm" the governess replied.

"It's been thirty

years since we were at war and five years since we had a incursion of raiders.

Now we are at peace. I'm sure the realm can survive without me" Henrietta

replied.

"That is the

problem young lady. You are not taking your duties seriously and with it you

cannot bring more prestige to your House, which is still new compared to

others" yelled the governess.

The lessons ended

early due to Henrietta leaving because she was bored from the governess'

constant talks about her duty as a noble woman. As she walked across the stone

catwalks she looked out to the horizon. Castle Everwatch was situated on top of

a rock formation that elevated it off the ground giving it a distinct advantage

to see around the entire land it was guarding.

The lush green

fields swayed as the wind blew by and the sun shone so bright that the entire

land looked as if it was the garden of paradise. Sadly the lands of Jorvik were

scarred from past wars. Clayton had told Henrietta the beauty of his homeland

of Iclinga for it was considered the most beautiful lands out of all the

dukedoms of Albion. She had hoped to see it one day. Henrietta looked down into

the village that surrounded the castle seeing the people go about their daily

lives. The same could be said for the Men-at-Arms who were patrolling the area.

Since her father was charged in protecting the border he was granted a small

army by the Archduke of Iclinga with the permission from the Archduke of

Jorvik.

Today she noticed

that the soldiers were fully armed as if they were getting ready for war. In a

rush she hurried to the great hall where she knew her father would be. She

thought she might be able to figure what was going on. Her dress slowed her

progress until she finally made it as the guards opened the doors for her. The

great hall was lavished with pelts and heads of animals hunted, but also

trophies of defeated foes. At the head of the hall was a rather large fireplace

and there stood her father Clayton Marshal.

Clayton was tall

for one who use to be a farmer and although he was reaching his fiftieth fifth

year he still looked quite fit for man of his age. His blue eyes looked faded

as the years weight heavy on him, but he stood strong. Next to him was Baron Geoffrey

Cromwell, an envoy of the Archduke of Jorvik and friend to her father Clayton.

Unlike Clayton the baron looked a little plumped around the waist.

"Are you sure about

this?" Clayton asked Geoffrey.

"I'm afraid so. My

forces have been delayed and will not arrive until morning. I apologize" the

baron said.

"No I understand.

The appearance of an Orok Warband has caught us all off guard. I only just

received the king's summons just a few days ago. I have fought these creatures

before but never in these numbers. Still I will send my eldest son with my men

while you and I will ride tomorrow. Just like the old days when we were off

crusading within the lands of Assyria." Clayton said. .

"Back then we were

younger and less plump," the baron replied with a smile. "Yet back then we

fought Assyrians, not barbaric monsters."

They were going

to discuss more when Clayton noticed Henrietta. She tried to rush her steps

toward her father, but she was slowed by the many troops passing through the

great hall and the servants doing their best to prepare the food for the

armies' long march.

"I'm sorry daughter

I did not see you enter the hall. Come" Clayton said. "Cromwell I believe you

remember my daughter Henrietta?"

"I do and I see she

has grown into a fine young woman," said Cromwell.

"A pleasure Baron

Cromwell" Henrietta said while giving a bow of respect.

"I'm surprised. I

thought you would be in your lessons at this time" Clayton said.

"I was, until I

started noticing the soldiers were rallying for war it seemed. I was curious as

to what was happening" she replied.

"You assumed

correctly. High King Edward has rallied as many forces within the area to

assist in stopping this Warband. We are to meet them at the old fortress of

Caldmere at the edge of the Silvadon Forest" said the Baron.

"I hear these

Warbands are usually quite large. Will there be enough men to combat them?"

Henrietta asked.

"Do not fret

daughter. We will be receiving aid from Scotia, Eire and even Kambria to add to

the High Kings own revenue," said Clayton.

"We should be able

to make short work of them and be back within a week or two," added Cromwell.

"At any rate I am

glad you are here. I have a task for you. While your brother and I are away you

will be left in charge of the castle" Clayton said with enthusiasm.

"Are you sure about

this? Why not mother?" Henrietta replied while also trying to hide her

disappointment in having to stay behind.

"Your mother was

the one who recommended that you be left in charge. This way you will put what

you have learned to practice. This will also be great experience for you when

the day comes you will have to run your own castle," said Clayton.

"Very well"

Henrietta replied disappointedly.

"I understand that

you would rather be learning something else such as swordplay, but such things

are looked down upon by many. It would be better that we follow these

traditions so as not to look weak. Our position within the noble ranks is

fragile as it is" Clayton said.

"The only reason

they feel that way is because a former farmer made fools of them" she replied.

"A sharp tongue

just like your mother, but I beg you to keep that in check for the time being. I

will only be leaving a token force for you in order to continue to keep peace

in the border. I am sure you will do well in this task" Clayton smiled.

"As you wish

father. I will do as you ask" she replied still feeling solemn about her new

boring task.

"Take heart my

daughter your path in life is not yet clear, but in the meantime find your

brother Gilbert and tell him to lead the troops to Caldmere ahead of me."

"Very well. I have

an idea on where he might be," she said.

"That's a good girl.

We will talk soon when the time is right" Clayton replied.

As she left,

Henrietta was feeling strange mostly do the fact that she was going to be left

in charge of the castle while her brother and father were away to war. Yet even

with this duty she still felt that she could do more, but unfortunately

traditions and expectations would have gotten in the way. Thankfully she would

be distracted when servants had come to her for help. The kitchens seemed to

have been raided by rats, there was a thief who was accused of stealing and a

group of knights seemed to be causing a scene. She thought to call her father,

but she felt she needed to do this if she was going to be in charge even for a

time.

First she took

care of the knights who were fighting over a woman, which was no surprise.

Henrietta settled the dispute when she gave them a challenge to see who could

successfully court this woman. Surprisingly, the woman was not interested in

either knight, yet they accepted the outcome. Next Henrietta made her way to

the kitchens where she was able to create an odorless concoction that drove the

rats away. Lastly, she found that the thief was not stealing out of malicious

intent, but to feed his family who were low on food because of the coming war

with the Orks. Henrietta allowed the man to keep what he took, but warned him

if he was ever caught again then he will not escape any punishment that might

befall him.

After that was all

done she made her way to her brother, but instead ran into her mother first.

She wore a slimming red dress with a gold trimming with her brown hair tied in

a long braid. Amelia Marshal née Macdonald was born a minor noblewoman within

the Kingdom of Angoland, yet her great grandfather originated from Scotia.

Amelia's father became great friends with High King Edward. It was through this

bond where Amelia was made the kings godchild. Even with her family history she

was schooled in the art of diplomacy and decor for whoever lord she would marry

someday. There were many suitors for her, but King Edward believed she would

best be suited for Clayton. Many objected to this, since he use to be a farmer,

but Clayton had proven himself for years to the king and saw fit to reward him

with a suitable wife and lands. Thankfully the two of them got along

swimmingly. Her skills have proven beneficial at the Dunmedler Border where

many disputes between the two kingdoms occurred. She only mainly got involved

as a last resort in case her husband failed to settles these disputes. They

usually dispersed once they realized Amelia would be involved.

"Ah my daughter.

How are you my dear?" her mother asked with joy.

"Mother I was on my

way to find Gilbert" Henrietta replied.

"Off to war it

would seem. I am not happy that the king wishes for both my son and husband to

join the war when their job is to guard the borders. I don't care that the king

is my godfather." Amelia said with frustration.

"This Warband must

be greater than we believe, hence the reason to summon as many able body men

including father" Henrietta replied.

"It doesn't mean I

have to like it" Amelia replied.

"Why can't I go

with father and Gilbert? I am just as capable as them with a sword" Henrietta

said hoping that her mother might listen to her.

"I understand that

it is difficult to see them riding off, but you must understand our position is

fragile at best. Just allowing you to learn any martial skills will cause the

other nobles to look down upon us since it is not the ladies station to fight.

Many lords could try to use that against your father and many of them are still

upset that I was married to a former peasant. Honestly I thought your father

was rather dashing for one who use to work the field. Those strong arms and

hands" Amelia said mournfully.

"Mother!!"

Henrietta replied feeling embarrassed on where the conversation was going.

"What? Don't give

me that tone. You'll feel the same way someday. In any case its best we keep to

our roles when dealing these traditions" Amelia replied.

"But I could make a

difference out there than staying at the castle"

"Trust me when I

tell you that you will have your chance one day, but for now you are needed

here to guard the border."

"As you wish

mother" Henrietta replied.

"I love you my

dear. You know that, don't you?

"I know mother."

Henrietta replied and embraced Amelia. For a split second, Henrietta felt a

sinking feeling as if she was going to be sick, but then brushed it off as nerves.

After leaving her

mother, Henrietta made her way up the castle stairs and towards her brother's

chambers hoping that he was there. Walking up those steps in a dress was not as

easy as many might have believed. After knocking on the door and waiting a few

seconds she was afraid he was not in, but was surprised when the door was

finally answered. At first she was disappointed to see that her brother was not

there, but that disappeared when she saw her little nephew, William.

"Auntie Rita" the

boy said with excitement and gave Henrietta a hug.

He was a strong

young boy of five years and full of spirit. His curly brown hair and attire was

a mess of dirt. Clearly he had been playing outside for some time. Whatever he

was rolling around in Henrietta could smell the stench, but she did not mind.

"William, my how

you've grown," she said joyfully.

"I hope I grow

bigger soon. I will be a knight just like papa" he replied.

They were then

both interrupted by the arrival of Williams mother Freda and Gilbert too. Freda

was from a minor noble house as well, yet they were allies to Clayton for

years. Her wavy golden hair, slim cheeks, exquisite blue dress and olive eyes

almost made her look like an Alf except that she did not have pointed ears. Gilbert

was the spitting image of their father. Dressed in leather attire, one could

still see that he was fit as any knight. Henrietta and Gilbert both shared

their fathers blue eyes and brown hair, but Gilbert had a small scar across his

cheekbone from a previous battle.

"And there is my

little sister, here to see me off" he said embracing Henrietta.

"I pray to Nimue,

that you will return soon" said Freda.

"My brother can

handle himself. It is not the first time he has had to face Orks" Henrietta

replied.

"Yes, but not a

Warband of this size and he is not invincible as he chooses to believe" replied

Freda with worry.

"Is there really

going to be a war? Will you bring me back a sword papa?" William asked.

"I'll find you the

mightiest one and bring it back for you my little knight" Gilbert laughed.

"Just promise me

you will be careful Gilbert" Freda asked.

"Nimue willing I

will return within a month or so. I'm just glad that the castle will be watched

over by Henrietta."

"I would rather go

with you" Henrietta replied.

"Now I know you

rather be out there with me, but lets be honest if someone were to attack the

castle I would probably muck it up. You dear little sister will probably scare

them half to death" Gilbert chuckled.

"You will be missed

brother" Henrietta said with a smile.

"If its any

consolation, I'll probably be freezing myself half to death near those

mountains and grow jealous of you being here having warm fires and a soft bed"

Gilbert jested.

"I feel thrilled

that you will be so miserable husband," Freda said sarcastically.

"I almost forgot, I

was to bring you a message from father" Henrietta said frantically. "Father

wants you go on ahead without him. He will meet you at the Silvadon Forest."

"Then the Barons

men are delayed. One would think they did not know the way to the castle. No

matter, I better head out now. I will you see you soon my love and you as well

William" Gilbert said to Freda and his son.

"I hoped you

planned to stay and wait for us before you left dear boy" said Clayton who was

followed by Amelia.

"Take care my son,

I will pray to Nimue for you and your fathers safety everyday" said Amelia.

"May Nimue watch

over us all and bring a swift end to this war so that our loved ones may return

to us safely" Freda prayed.

"And brings us some

wenches and ale while you're at it. For the men of course" Gilbert jested.

"Gilbert!! You

would say this in front of your mother?" Freda said sounding appalled to his

comment.

"What's a wench?"

asked William.

"A wench is a woman

who pours the ale, amongst many other things now that I think about," said

Clayton.

"Nimue's grace, its

like living with a pack of small boys," Amelia said annoyingly.

"I'll miss you the

most mother. You'll watch over her won't you sister?" Gilbert asked.

"Our mother can

handle herself. She's been in worse situations," said Henrietta.

"Your right about

that. They should be sending her to face the Orks. She probably scold them to

death" Gilbert chuckled.

"I'm glad you find

this so funny" Amelia replied annoyed with her sons jesting.

It was good to be

amongst her family for a while before they all went their separate ways. When

she said her goodbyes to her brother, her father suggested she not exert

herself too much and rest for the long day ahead tomorrow. Yet she could not

stay rested for there was something else she needed to do. She changed from her

formal attire and wore instead leather armor and made her way to the training

arena within the castle grounds. Henrietta was forbidden from entering it for

most of her youth, but in the past four years her father was allowing her to

receive special instruction in wielding a sword should the day come if she had

to defend herself. Many nobles would have looked down on her father and

probably try to find a way to undermine his authority within the Borderland if

they found out that a woman was learning how to wield a sword. So her father

sought help from an instructor that no one would have expected or rather

avoided.

"Your late lass"

"Sorry I was held

up Sir Glin" Henrietta replied.

"I told, its just

Glin lass. I was never knighted."

Within the west

side of the arena there were racks of weapons and shields that were used for

practice, but sitting in a chair was a man. He was older than Henrietta's

father. Most likely close to his sixth decade with fading ginger hair and beard

but his strong physique gave him a more youthful. His faced carried the scars

of many battles too. His attire was mainly black and gray. On his hip was a

long sword with a black hilt.

He was a Hedge

Knight, a warrior that belonged to no lord, but they offered their sword for a

small pay and the challenges of war. This choice in profession was not very

knightly, so many tried to avoid them or saw them as dishonorable. For knights

that were considered lowly, their fighting prowess was almost the stuff of

legends. Lucky for Henrietta her father had met Glin years ago and became good

friends with him. Many would deem it strange due to the fact that both men came

from different kingdoms within Albion especially Glin who came from Eire a

place that many in Albion have considered a backwater kingdom.

"Enough dawdling.

Lets see what you remember so far" Glin said while tossing Henrietta her own

sword.

As she brought her

sword up Glin attacked catching her off guard, but she recovered. Taking the

initiative she struck back causing Glin to defend, but he parried with such

grace that it felt like he was toying with her. Changing his stance he attacked

with more aggressive strikes causing Henrietta to retreat and try to block, but

they were not effective and he swiftly disarmed her.

"Do not try to

match my strength with your own. You're not going to win that way. Unless you

were as big as me then maybe you could have stood a chance. Most knights are

not quick, so counter with a successful riposte and strike the weak points

instead of bashing away like a hammer," said Glin.

After picking up

her sword again, she took his advise to heart. She moved quickly away from his

strikes or used his momentum against him. Glin attack with another powerful

strike, but Henrietta was able to sidestep and swat his blade to the side, and

then countered to strike his neck. Yet she stopped her attack midway as the blade

passed his cheek leaving a small cut.

The perfect

counter caught her by surprise for she was only a few inches in killing her

teacher, which was not her intent. When Glin first instructed her, he gave her

a real sword to use instead of a wooden. His belief was that the more realistic

the training was the more likely she would be able to handle herself in a real

fight. She learned everything there was to learn about swordplay from Glin, now

most of their sessions were just them sparring for long hours to keep her

endurance up. After about two hours they were starting to slow down and

eventually locked swords.

"Excellent lass"

Glin said.

"I could have

killed you during that last counter" Henrietta replied with concern.

"Never feel bad

about that. The moment you start worrying about such things on the battlefield

is the moment you get yourself killed" he replied.

Taking advantage of

her momentary pause he brought his sword down hard causing her to drop to the

ground. Knowing she was not going to be able to block his next strike she

grabbed one of the shields that was nearby. Blocking his attacks Henrietta was

starting to put Glin on the defensive again, but then she overextended her

reach and he grabbed her sword arm and twisted it causing her to drop her

weapon. Before he could continue there was a screech that causes Glin to look

up. Suddenly a flash of flight erupted and blinded him. In the wake of that

flash was a falcon that swooped from the sky and attacked Glin.

"Away with you ya

blasted bird," Glin said as he tried to swat the bird away.

"Sorry Sir Glin. He

just thinks I am in danger," Henrietta said as she whistled to the falcon to

come to her.

"I thought you

released that thing" Glin said as he was treating wounds that the bird

inflicted.

"I did, but he

keeps coming back."

Most would thing

that Henrietta's falcon was just some pet for her to practice her falconry,

however this was a magical creature empowered by magical properties. Its

feathers were red chestnut and it gave a faint glow like the sun. Experts

called this a Flare Falcon, because it used an ability that allowed it to flash

a bright light to blind enemies or prey as it swooped in from the sky to

attack. Henrietta found this one when it was just a baby and raised it herself.

She named him Belenos, after an ancient sun god from centuries past. Once he

saw that Henrietta was safe he flew to a small perch and stood to observe.

"You need to use

your shield a little more effectively. It's not just a tool to protect you.

Both shield and sword must work in synchronization, otherwise you'll find

yourself deader than fools who believe they are heroes."

"So what does that

make you? You fought in the War of the Emerald Clovers. Some would consider you

a hero," said Henrietta as Glin sat down to rest a bit.

"That's the thing

lass, people think I am a hero. Those of us who survived do not think so.

Course people change their tune once they find out I am a Hedge Knight."

"Father said you

fought with him during that war. There was a rebellion of sorts in Eire? Some

lord believed himself to be fit for the kingship?" Henrietta asked.

"Rebellion? Oh so

that's what they call it down here in Angoland? It was more than just a

rebellion lass. It was mainly a civil war and later on it was war for survival.

Many did not know that this lord awakened a Titanbeast to get what he wanted.

That thing would cause destruction, and when it was done with its rampage the

rebels would attack the weakened forces. There was no honor on either side."

"My father

mentioned this in his stories. What exactly are Titanbeasts?" Henrietta asked.

"Monstrous

creatures that exists above the natural order of things. Most are not sure

where they come from, but many believe it has something to do with the primal

energies of our world that give rise to these beasts. I just know that they are

extremely powerful and intelligent."

"But it was

defeated?" Henrietta said.

"Not by us normal

knights. No the beast was defeated when the Dragon Knights arrived."

"Dragon Knights"

Henrietta said with glee. "The only order of knights who can ride on the backs

of dragons. So who was it that dealt the deadly blow to this Titanbeast?" she

asked.

"You already know

the answer to that" Glin replied while feeling tired that he was telling this

story again.

"But I like to hear

it again. Besides you tell it better since you were there," Henrietta said with

anticipation.

"It was the Green

Knight Bertilak atop his mighty dragon Scalaga"

"And who was it

that aided Bertilak?" Henrietta asked.

"His companion at

arms was the Bronze Knight Etharus and his dragon Kitrinos."

"They say that

Dragon Knights only arrive when they are most needed. And that it is the

dragons that choose them" said Henrietta.

"So the stories

say, but they have not been seen for many years. Maybe they would still be

around if they were not labeled enemies."

"Father never

mentioned that" Henrietta said shockingly.

"Dragons are still

alive in our era and are considered dangerous. Seeing knights riding them makes

people think they might want to cause devastation. So it was that King Brian

O'Neil of Eire tried to hunt the Dragon Knights down."

"I find that

strange that they would do that. Wasn't High King Edward's father against such

an action?" Henrietta asked.

"King Brian was

within his rights since they were within his own kingdom. There was little that

the High King could do. Of course the king was told something different to

rectify his attack on the Dragon Knights."

"What did he

claim?" Henrietta asked.

"King Brian claimed

that the Dragon Knights attacked them, that the dragons themselves grew out of

control, but that was not true. Those of us who were there saw that the King

Brian wanted to offer the Dragon Knights his hand in friendship, but it was all

a trick. He tried to convince us to arrest them."

"And they were

obviously not successful" added Henrietta.

"Correct. So many

of us rebelled against the king for his action. When he tried to brand us

traitors, well it turned nasty. Many were killed and the Dragon Knights helped

many of us to escape Eire. It's been thirty years since they have been seen

again. Who knows if they will appear again after what the king did or if they

even exist anymore."

"I'm sure they will return someday."

"I hope so. Ah

dammit you little eejit you had me talking so long the sun has gone down. Best

get to bed and we will pick this up tomorrow," said Glin.

"Oh come now Sir

Glin, just a little longer?"

"No. Knights need

rest to regain their strength and this one is extremely old and needs lots of

it" he replied pointing to himself.

"Alright fine.

Until tomorrow Sir Glin" she said putting away her sword and shield on the

racket.

"Good night lass"

Glin replied as he looked up into the darkening sky to witness the blue moon

rising.

Henrietta whistled

to Belenos and he replied flying to her arm and resting himself there. She

carried him to one of the battlements of the castle and looked over the

horizon. The sun had but a sliver of light left until the night finally took

over.

"Go on. I'll see

you tomorrow" she said to Belenos.

He gave her a

affectionate peak to her ear then spread his swings and flew out into the night

sky all the while his feathers gave a faint glow until he disappeared.

Henrietta did not waste time getting back to her chambers.

After a long bath all she wanted to do now was rest. The servants had already

prepared her dinner and laid out her nightgown. It appeared that dinner with

the family was not going to occur due in part Clayton was still making

preparations for his departure the next day. As she got dressed she was feeling

scared about having to run the castle on her own. She never really felt

comfortable taking charge especially since her brother was mostly expected to.

Yet like her father had told her, she was being groomed for these events encase

others could not. Finishing her dinner and reading a book were not doing

anything to calm her nerves. So she did what she always did to calm herself.

She started dancing, even though she had no partner. To anyone watching it

might as well look as if she was dancing with a ghost.

This went on for a

few minutes until she stopped to see the blue moon in the dark sky. She hadn't

realized it was that time of the year for the blue moon appeared every two

years and was a symbol of great change. Henrietta could not see the reason for

any change to happen either it be large or small. Maybe things would change

tomorrow or maybe it wouldn't. No one really knew. Near the window was wooden

alter and on it was a small statue that was a rendition of Albion's patron

goddess Nimue. The goddess was mainly revered within the lands of Angoland and

although she had a presence in Kambria, Eire and Scotia it was not as strong as

the deities that the other kingdoms worshipped.

"Praise the Lady

Nimue for she is pure. I ask you watch over my father and brother as they go to

war. I also pray that I govern well in their absents. I truly hope your

listening. The nobles, all they see in my father is the peasant that he used to

be. I know I have pressured him to allow me to learn the ways of the knight,

but I do not do it just to satisfy my own want. I just want my family to be

safe especially when many of the highborn look down upon us."

Before she could

add more to her prayer she thought she felt a strange sensation as if she was

being watched, but when she turned around there was no one there. Then she

noticed that there were strange silvery dusts of sorts in the air and there was

a humming sound like someone was singing a song. The dust was starting to form

and led a path to the door. Feeling cautious and also curious she opened the

door and saw that the silver dusts path was leading further into the castle.

That is until it disappeared entirely and then all was quiet. Maybe she was

just hearing things or hallucinating. The stress must have really been serious

if it was all a figment of her imagination. Rest was the best option at this

time and proceeded to lie under the covers of her bed slowly falling asleep

until she saw the morning sun.

The night sky was

ablaze with the stars tonight, probably due to the effects of the blue moon.

Well that was the belief anyway. The men-at-arms guarding the main gate and

walls stood their vigil even though the night was late. From below the hill

where the castle stood they could even see the small town as well as an

approaching army that carried the colors of Baron Cromwell's house. The

men-at-arms realized that these must have been the men that were late on

arriving. The small army stopped their march near the foot of the hill and

small revenue of lords and knight rode up to the castle gates.

"Who goes there?"

yelled the gatekeeper.

"We are the

bannermen to our Lord Baron Cromwell" said the lead lord.

"Ah, we've been

expecting you. Come on in the Warden had the kitchens prepare a meal for you

and your men when you arrived" said the sergeant, while ordering to get the

gates opened.

As the doors

opened the revenue rode by a small squad of guards leading them to their

quarters. That's is until a wave of silent arrows shot through the air and into

the guards as well as the other men guarding the gatehouse. From the shadows of

the castle walls and the small building near the gates the assailants with

their bows drawn secured the area and ignored the new arrivals save for one who

came to deliver a message to them.

"Baron sends his

regards and hopes that you will follow his instructions as was planned," the

assassin said.

"Very well. Signal

the rest of the men down the hill to commence the attack and show no quarter to

anyone."

Henrietta

was having a difficult time sleeping. It wasn't because of the responsibilities

she would have to do in the coming hours, but because she was dreaming. She was

in a thick fog of sorts and she couldn't find her way out. It was becoming

extremely frustrating. Then she started to hear that humming sound like before

then saw a shape in the fog. At first she thought it might be a person, but

then the figure raised itself up to reveal a much larger shape.

"Hmm. I thought I

sensed a strong spirit. I think it best you wake up now," said the shadowy

figure.

Henrietta woke

with a shock feeling as if she went through some horrid nightmare. She did not

understand what that was all about, but then she was distracted by another

noise that sounds as if it was occurring throughout the castle. The sound of

steel could be heard, which to her meant that there was a battle going on.

Jumping out of her bed she grabbed a cloak and was about to exit her room until

the door was forced opened and two men entered with their bloodied blades

drawn.

"Men, what is

happening?" she asked frantically.

"Don't worry about

that my lady. Everything is under control," the soldier said.

For some reason

she did not believe him and the two men did not sound familiar to her either.

When they got a little closer she could see them wearing the colors of Baron

Cromwell. A sudden realization came to her. One of the men took two strides

toward her and brought his sword arm for a killing stroke. As if time had

slowed she could see where his stance was weakest and how she could disarm him,

just as Glin had taught her. Henrietta stepped forward and grabbed the man's

arm keeping him from completing his sword swing.

Caught off guard

by this he tried to out muscle her from her grip, but not wanting to give the

man the chance she kicked him in his groin causing him to stagger in pain. As

he fell, his grip on his sword was loose and Henrietta took his weapon from him

and parried in time when the second man tried to stab her. Yet as she was going

to press her attack the first man had recovered and grabbed her by the hair

giving his compatriot a chance to kill her.

It never came for Amelia

Marshal appeared from behind and stabbed the second assailant in the shoulder.

It wasn't deep enough and the second assailant turned to grab Amelia by the

throat. Seeing her mother in danger Henrietta mustered whatever rage she was

feeling and retaliated by striking the first assailant in the leg, causing him

to let go of her hair. After retrieving the fallen sword she cut the mans head

off with one clean strike then turned to stab her sword through the second

assailants neck to save her mother.

"Darling. Are you

alright?" Amelia asked.

Henrietta was not

sure. Looking down at herself she saw no wounds on her other than the blood of

those she slain on her nightgown and some on her face. Her heart was racing the

adrenaline was intoxicating, but that was not what she was really feeling.

Seeing that she was not looking well Amelia embraced her daughter and Henrietta

dropped the sword and returned the embrace.

"Mother. I killed

them," she said with shock

"You did what was

necessary my darling. Nimue's grace I am glad I arrived in time after hearing

the screams."

"Sir Glin warned me

that I might feel this way if I ever killed for the first time. I just never

expected that it would feel this horrible"

"Then he is a good

teacher indeed. I am glad that your father allowed him to train you, but we

cannot stay here. Did you see what was on these men's tunics?

"Symbol of the

black bear? These are Cromwell's men," Henrietta said.

"I just don't

understand why they would attacked us" Amelia replied.

"It's too much of a

coincidence that they attack us while most of our troops are gone" Henrietta

deduced.

"You do not believe

that Cromwell's men were delayed on purpose?" Amelia replied with realization

on her face. "That bastard, I'll slit his bloody throat myself."

"Where's father?"

Henrietta asked.

"He never came to

bed. We must find him."

"Then we better

start moving mother," Henrietta said while standing back up and grabbing the

swords and handing one to her mother.

"You know how to

use one of these mother?"

"Your father was

able to teach me. I guess I passed that desire to learn the sword to you" she

chucked. "Hurry we must get to Freda and William."

They entered the

hallway swords raised and looking to see if anyone else was in the area. The

two sword-wielding women would have looked like a strange sight to many.

Gilberts quarters were not too far from theirs where inside should be Freda and

William, but as they arrived they found the door slightly ajar. Henrietta

opened the door and was met with a horrific sight. On the floor laid Freda and

William in pools of their own blood. Their bodies stabbed and throats slit,

Amelia could not handle it, dropping to her knees.

"No!" she screamed.

"My little William. What manner of monster would slaughter innocence?"

"Why would they do

this?" Henrietta asked while barely holding back her tears.

"Cromwell isn't

even taking hostages. He means to kill everyone in the castle."

"Mother we need to

leave now" Henrietta said while dragging her mother out. It hurt her to do it,

but if they wanted to survive they needed to leave.

"There they are"

said a voice.

The two women saw

more of Cromwell's men down the hallway and were hell bent on slaying them, but

then they heard a door being slammed open from behind them and looked to see

Sir Glin.

"Get down!" he

yelled.

As the ladies

threw themselves down to the ground Glin threw a spear, killing one of the

soldiers and then engaging the others with his sword, slaying them easily.

"My ladies, I am

glad to see you are safe"

"Sir Glin. What is

happening out there?" Amelia asked.

"It's a mess my

lady. Cromwell's men attacked the moment they came through the gates. I was

lucky enough to raise the alarm when I was making my way back to the

citadel. I heard that your husband is

rallying men at the great hall as we speak. I shall take you there."

"Not yet Sir Glin.

I need you to take us to the family treasury" said Amelia.

"My lady the

treasury is outside near all the fighting. We would be exposed."

"I understand, but

there are items in that vault that need to be protected. You know of what I

speak," she said with a tone that meant something between them and not

Henrietta.

"Then we best make

out way there, but we need to be extra careful," Glin said.

"Mother why? We do

not have time to take any personal belongings," said Henrietta.

"There are only two

items that we need darling and I will not have them fall in the hands of a

traitor. Sir Glin lead the way," Amelia asked.

"Yes my lady. The

treasury is not too far from where we are, but who knows if the exits are being

guarded. Where are your grandson and daughter-in-law?" Glin said.

"Dead" Amelia said

without hesitation.

"Then you have my

sympathy. Follow me."

It felt like hours, but for every corner

they turned they needed to be careful. They would run into a few patrols, but

they were easily dispatched. Glin at times would make sure he was facing any

enemy knights that they came across while Henrietta and Amelia surprisingly

were able to take care of the other enemy soldiers. There must have been fierce

fighting throughout the castle because what looked like a decorated and

well-organized place of living was now turned into a battlefield of blood and

violence. They were able to sneak their way through the barracks that led to

the inner courtyards and yet they still had some ways to go.

A few times they

came upon bodies that belonged to the castle servants, enemy soldiers and even

their own soldiers. Through the windows they passed they could see that most of

the fighting was taking place in the main courtyard. Such heavy fighting that

no one was really sure who was winning. Glin halted them and looked around a

corner to see small revenue of friendly foot soldiers and three knights

fighting Cromwell's men. Without hesitation Glin attacked his enemies flank and

felled three more until the enemy were dead.

"Sir Glin. My

you're a sight," said one of the knights.

"Not a 'Sir' Sir

Daegal. Glad we came in time" Glin replied while motioning Sir Daegal's

attention to Henrietta and Amelia.

"My ladies. I am

glad to see you are safe."

"Sir Daegal. My

husband is rallying everyone to the great hall. Get yourself and your men

there" Amelia asked.

"What will you do

my lady?"

"We need to get to

the family treasury," Amelia said.

"I cannot go to the

great hall just yet. Your husband would reprimand me for leaving you when we

could have done our duty to protect you. My men and I will join you."

There was no

point in arguing so she allowed them to come along. Making their way further

into the castle grounds they were fortunate that they were not running into any

enemies. They mainly ran into more survivors whom Amelia ordered to the great

hall to help her husband. When they finally arrived the door to the treasury

was locked. The soldiers were about to bash the door down until Amelia stopped

them.

"Stand aside men. I

have a key. It will be less subtle than breaking down the door," she said as she

pulled out a key and unlocked the door.

Once they entered

the foot soldiers and knights spread out and covered different parts of the

room. It looked liked an administration office where papers and records were

kept. The main vault was an iron cast door that contained House Marshals

wealth. Amelia used the key again and the iron doors opened wide revealing

treasure chests of coins and other such valuables, but Amelia walked passed

them not even showing the slight sign that they were important.

Instead she

walked toward an empty wall, where to Henrietta's surprise, Amelia was pushing

specific bricks in a sequence and the wall opened to reveal two items within.

One of them was a sword, sheathed in a black scabbard with silver linings,

which was connected to a fastening belt. The handle carried the same color as

well as the cross guard. Henrietta could tell that the blade must have been at

least four feet long and it gave off some sort of aura as if it was surrounded

by magic. The other item looked to be some sort of amulet, but its appearance

took the shape of an ancient clock, but underneath the winding mechanisms was a

white stone of sorts.

"Are these what we

are looking for?" Henrietta asked.

"The sword was a

gift from an Alf prince that your father saved many years ago. It was going to

be a present to your brother after this war with the Orks, but for now you take

it my dear."

"What about this

amulet?" Henrietta asked as she fastened the sword to her hip.

"An heirloom that

the king gave me to protect at all cost. I was told that these are one of the

artifacts that once belonged to the great wizard Emrys Myrddin. If Cromwell is

after this then we need to make sure he never gets it."

As she finished her

sentence there was a rumble in the castle, which meant that the enemy was

bombarding the castle or the enemy finally got through the main doors of the

citadel. They couldn't be sure.

"We need to go

now," said Amelia.

They hurried as

fast as they could to the great hall not even trying to be careful now sense it

seemed that the castles defenses were on the verge of collapse. Rounding the

last corner to their destination there were guards at the entrance keeping

watching until they saw the newcomers. Seeing they were not enemies they

stepped back to let them through. Henrietta passed through the threshold and

saw many foot soldiers injured and others just resting to catch their breathe.

It was a far cry to what the great hall was a few hours ago. At the end was her

father, who looked injured from a wound to his side.

"My darling, are

you alright?" Amelia asked.

"I've had worse

wounds than this my love" Clayton replied.

"Father, what are

we going to do?" Henrietta asked.

"I don't rightly

know. We were caught off guard and the enemy is slowly taking the castle"

Clayton replied with uncertainty.

"My lord, this

incursion is clearly an attack to rid you of your position within the

Borderland." said Glin.

"I don't

understand. This position does not give me much power. It only allows me to

protect the borders between two kingdoms. There are other Wardens as well. Why

us?" Clayton said.

"It is possible

that the nobles still can't accept your old life as a peasant and see you as an

affront in the social ladder" said Glin.

"The king would

never stand for this"

"If they kill you

they can spin whatever tale they want. Make it look like it was raiders or

something else," argued Glin.

"What are you

suggesting then?"

"We need to get you

and your family out of this castle. If I recall the kitchen has a secret

passage way that leads into the town" Glin suggested. Before anything else

could be said, one the foot soldiers frantically ran into the great hall.

"They have broken

through the citadel gate. They will be here any minute," the man yelled.

"Close the door and

bar it," commanded Clayton.

Everyone rose to

their feet and closed the doors and slid iron locks across the doors, but then

the soldiers and knights started to place tables and other such objects to

block the door as well. Not a moment too soon because then they could hear the

enemy banging on the doors already. The foot soldiers brought their swords and

shields in a defensive formation while the knights stood behind them. The doors

were being repeatedly struck. Clayton drew his sword, as did Amelia. Henrietta

drew the sword that was supposed to go to her brother. No use in letting it go

to waste by staying in its scabbard.

The blade

glimmered with the magical enchantments it was infused with almost shining like

a small blue star. The banging from the door suddenly stopped giving an ominous

silence until there was a subtle sound everyone was hearing until the doors

were quite literally blasted apart. Throwing the tables and chairs across the

great hall. The enemy foot soldiers charged through the broken doors clashing

with the defenders. Glin stepped into the fray slaying a few of the enemy with

ease. He was wondering how the enemy was even able to open the doors with such

ease and found his answer when he was shot with a blast of magic throwing him

across the room.

Henrietta saw Glin

fall and caught sight of a wizard entering the fray. It would explain how the

enemy was able to blast the doors open with such ease. Cromwell really wasn't

taking any chances especially since he hire the help of a wizard. Their kind

were not necessarily liked, but they were needed in times of peril,

unfortunately sometimes they were used for other means. A few of the enemy

soldiers got through the gap turning the battle into a desperate frenzy.

Henrietta held her ground with her father and mother felling the enemies that

were trying to bring their end. Glin, Sir Daegal and a few other knights pushed

the enemy back, but they were met with knights who served Cromwell.

Glin saw two of

his fellow knights get cut down with ease and then saw a few of the foot

soldiers be subdued by the magic from the wizard. Their position was becoming

hopeless at this point. Suddenly Glin was immobilized by the wizard again and

left him to be struck down by one of the enemy knights. Before the fatal blow

could be struck, a blade protruded out of the knight's neck revealing Henrietta

who had saved Glin.

"Well done lass"

said Glin.

"Don't praise me

yet. We still need to get through this"

The wizard

advanced his momentum in the battle and struck Henrietta with a telekinetic

thrust away from Glin. Without warning, Glin had freed himself from the spell,

which surprised the wizard because he only just barely conjured a magical

shield to withstand Glins attack. The wizard then conjured a green fireball and

struck Glin hard. By some miracle he was not scorched.

"Interesting" said

the wizard.

Clayton then

stepped in to defend Glin as the wizard was about to cast another spell. Even

with his wound he was putting the wizard on the defensive. Seeing that he was

in a predicament, enemy knights stepped in and pushed Clayton back. He cut down

two of them, but failed to see another attack come from behind. Fortunately

Amelia had blocked the attack, saving her husband. However, she did not see her

opponent wielding a knife in the other hand. With the knife in her side, the

knight struck her to the ground causing her to drop the amulet, which rolled

across the floor and stopped at Henrietta, who was still recovering from being

struck by magic. Looking up she could see that the defenders were being overrun

and killed. The floor was red with blood and everywhere she looked she could

see that there was no way out of this.

Fear was starting

to take over, fear of death. A concept she did not think she would have to face

so soon. Her father and mother were injured and Glin was doing his best to

protect them. Near the threshold of the main doors the wizard was casting a

spell charging lightning around him. Henrietta suspected that this was the end

now. That is until she heard a voice. It was quiet and she could barely hear it

until a light flashed under her vision and saw the amulet near her feet. When

she picked it up, time seemed to slow down. The white gem glowed and the gears

started to turn like a clock. Near the edges of the amulet there was a language

that she could not read, but then it changed into a language she could

understand and read aloud.

"By the light of Aurvandil, may justice burn

bright"

The amulet glowed

brighter and a strange veil of light was engulfing Henrietta. She didn't know

what was happening. The only thing she saw was the wizard had completed his

spell. Henrietta ran through the chaos and stepped between her parents and the

attack. The wizard sent forth a powerful blast of dark lightning. Henrietta

raised her hand that held the amulet by pure instinct as the lightning collided

with the amulet holding the attack at bay. The light continued to glow brighter

around her, until it manifested into a dragon. It roared so loud that the

entire castle shook and the windows shattered. The amulet then rebounded the

wizard's spell back at him and his allies. In one instant they were struck down

dead. When the smoke cleared all enemies were dead, but that did not fair well

for the defenders.

Most were killed

and others could barely stand as they tried to put their innards back in place.

Glin went out of the great hall to see if there any enemies still nearby.

Henrietta was astonished as to what happened, but threw that to the back of her

mind to check on her mother and father. They were both laid against the wall

next to each other as the knights tried their best to bandage the wounds they

had received. Unfortunately Henrietta can tell that they were fatal. Clayton

had received another wound to his gut and Amelia was bleeding out from her own

wound with the knife still inside her. Amelia looked to her daughter with

sadness and assurance.

"It would seem you

have been chosen" Amelia said weakly.

"What?"

"There isn't much

time then. What just happened did not kill all our enemies. I am sure there are

more," said Clayton.

"Then we need to

leave" Henrietta said trying to get her mother up.

"No. What matters

now is that you live and warn the king of this treachery and find your

brother," said Amelia.

"Not without you

and father" Henrietta said as she started to shed tears.

"Darling. I can't

even stand at this point. I've lost too much blood. Not even magic can help

me," Clayton said bluntly.

"The servants

passage in the kitchens is your best chance to escape. You must go now," Amelia

said with content.

"My Lord, we can

carry you if we must" said Sir Daegal.

"We will be nothing

but a hindrance. The castle is likely surrounded"

Clayton replied.

"I'm afraid our

Lord Warden is correct," said Glin. "I just saw with my own eyes that the

castle is indeed surrounded. With the citadel gates broken more will come.

Getting passed them will be difficult."

"Glin. You are

under no obligation to me, but I beg you take my daughter to safety." Clayton

said while he was struggling to breath.

"You took in a

Hedge Knight when no one else would. I will do this for you old friend in your

memory. I will guard your daughter until the day I die" Glin said without

hesitation.

"Henrietta. Go with

Glin and be sure that justice is done. I may have started this House, but our

family will always do its duty first. You must do this."

"I will father"

Henrietta said with heartbreak.

"Clayton. Are you

sure?" Amelia asked.

"Our daughter will

not die from this treasury. She must live and leave her mark on the world."

"Well you heard

your father. Off you go my dear"

"Amelia no" Clayton

tried to object, hoping beyond hope that she could at least live.

"Hush, Clayton. I

too am not long for this world and I will not abandon you to die alone."

"Mother please. I

can't lose you both" Henrietta replied as the tears were pouring down.

"My place is with

your father. Besides if I'm not there with him he might lose his way to the

paradise of Avalon" she chuckled.

"I wish it didn't

come to this my love," said Clayton as he grasped her hand.

"We've lived a good

life and done everything we could. Now its time to leave it to our children"

she replied.

"Go now Henrietta

while you can. Anyone who can stand should leave too. Consider it my final

orders" Clayton said to the other foot soldiers and knights.

"It has been an

honor Lord Clayton Marshal," said Sir Daegal with a bow of respect.

"Darling" Amelia

said getting Henrietta attention before she passed from this world. "You don't

realize yet, but you have a great destiny to fulfill. Find King Edward, ask him

about the amulet. He should be able to shed light on it. When you find Gilbert

give him our love. Now go."

Glin pulled

Henrietta from the ground. Everyone else who could walk grabbed their weapons

and followed Glin to a secret door on the other side of the great hall and used

it as a short cut to the kitchens. Luckily there was no one impeding their

progress and they were able to make it through the passageway within the

kitchen, which led them out of the castle and on the outskirts of the town. As

Henrietta rose from the tunnel entrance she could see that the sun was starting

to rise in the early morning. Yet the sun was giving off a more reddish light

in the sky. Red skies were a bad omen. It was a prelude to the blood that would

be spilled in the coming days.