Morena's Tale

[Deloria]

I like it. No offense to your story or anything but when you look at the timeline, wasn't KQ before christ seeing has how this story is somewhat religious?

[Gilgamesh]

what a long story, to bad I haven't read it completely (I should print it first).
Ever thought about making a book out of it?

[Rosedragon]

In the original KQ2, there was a Christian monastery with a cross on the altar and a kind old plump Christian monk who gave Graham a cross to protect him from Dracula. In MOE there was also a Christian/Catholic church with a cross. Besies, the Daventry world is some what medeival, and in mdeival times the Christian Church had a lot of power.

I'm a Christian myself, I want to make my stories Christian, I feel guilty when I violate the laws of God even in my writing, so I've tried to put less magic to my stories, since the bible forbids magic and says it is evil.

[Moodyblues]

I haven't read through your whole story, but it looks a-pretty good so far!

In the original KQ2, there was a Christian monastery with a cross on the altar and a kind old plump Christian monk who gave Graham a cross to protect him from Dracula. In MOE there was also a Christian/Catholic church with a cross. Besies, the Daventry world is some what medeival, and in mdeival times the Christian Church had a lot of power.

Good point!  Of course, the King's Quest series doesn't really emphasize religion.

I'm a Christian myself, I want to make my stories Christian, I feel guilty when I violate the laws of God even in my writing, so I've tried to put less magic to my stories, since the bible forbids magic and says it is evil.

Have you ever read Lord of the Rings by Tolkein or The Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis?  Both have Christian themes and are written by Christians, and yet both storylines have elements of magic.  Writing about magic is not the same as becoming a magician.  (Well, any writer is a "magician," in a sense.  ) 

I do like the fact that you incorperate Christian themes into your story, though.  I think we need more writers like that.

[Deloria]

Oh yeah. I fogot about KQ2 and 8. I wouldn't know about that since I've never read the bioble, buit if that's true you shouldn't have played any of the KQ's

[Rosedragon]

I should have remembered, and go easy on the magic, it is only imaginary. Nothing wrong with writing about imaginary magic so long as it doesn't hurt nobody. I have read both LOTR and the Narnia books. I like Narnia best because I read it as a kid and the memories of that delightful series stay with me. I would like to read it over again. I guess since it's so hard to define magic, it could be compared to the miracles Jesus and his followers performed in the bible.

[Deloria]

Oh but you will continue won't you? I really enjoy reading it.

[Rosedragon]

*smiles* of course I will continue it. I'm working on my Daventry's Children story, and a story about Christmas in Daventry, but I will be sure to update soon. I need to finish this story. There's a movie about Narnia coming out, the Lion the Witcha nd the Wardrobe, I can't wait to see it, it's gonna be great! I borrowed some ideas from Narnia for my King's Quest Christmas story.

[Rosedragon]

Chapter 3

Valanice and her friends were delighted to see Castle Daventry. Graham’s people were pleased with their new queen and thought her gracious and beautiful.

When they first arrived at the castle the castle steward, Humphrey, has prepared a celebration in honor of Graham’s marriage to Valanice. The royal dining table was set with a roasted pig, fresh bread, soup, cheese, fruit and greens, and a chocolate wedding cake for dessert.  After being on a ship for a week and eating fish and hard biscuits, the royal couple was ready for some fresh, good food.

After dining came the dancing in the ballroom. Taren, the castle bard, played lovely music along with some other excellent musicians.  Morena was surprised when Rupert asked her to dance. She was thrilled to be so close to the boy she had secretly loved for two years.

While getting ready for the celebration, Graham changed into formal clothes and gave Valanice her wedding present, the sapphire jewelry he found in Kolyma during his adventure to rescue her. A blue velvet gown that belonged to the previous queen, Maylee the wife of King Edward, was found in good condition in the royal closets and Valanice wore it to the ball. Morena borrowed a pale green silk gown for the ball.

While they were dancing, Rupert said to Morena, “You have the most incredible dark brown eyes I’ve ever seen. I never noticed how lovely your eyes were before.”

Morena giggled. “You’ve never danced with me before. And your eyes are a beautiful green.”

“I hope I learn everything about being a knight here. Later on maybe I can leave the castle and have adventures like all heroes do.”

“I’m sure you will. ”Morena said. “I would like to have adventures too.”

“You have already done so much for Valanice, without your help I doubt if King Graham could have rescued her.” Said Rupert.

“I’m sure the king would have done very well on his own. He is very smart and is a capable adventurer.” Morena replied. 

“Aye, he sure is.” Rupert agreed.

Graham danced with Valanice in the center of the ballroom. “You look absolutely stunning, my love.” He told her.

Valanice blushed. “I have you to thank for giving me these exquisite jewels.”

“The sapphires really brings out your eyes.” Graham said.

“You are quite dashing yourself, my new husband.” Valanice said. “The sapphire jewelry reminds me of a legend of stolen treasure in my family.” 

“Really? I would like to hear this legend.” Graham was intrigued.

“Well, during my great-grandfather’s time it is said that the family jewels were stolen by an evil witch and hidden throughout the land. I think the jewels were said to be sapphire and diamond jewelry.” Valanice told the story.

“Well what do you know, it seems I have returned your family’s property to you. I think these may be your family’s stolen jewels, I found them hidden and scattered in the most unusual places. The necklace I found in an old hollow log, the bracelet was in a clamshell under a log at the beach, and the brooch was hidden in a hole in rocks by the lake south of the church. The dwarf thief had the earrings hidden in a trunk in his underground home, and in Count Dracula’s castle I found the tiara in a chest at the top of a tower.” Graham told her.

“Then these must be my family’s missing jewels! They are so beautiful, and I am very pleased that you have found them and given them to me.” Valanice was delighted.

“I hope your happiness with me will make up for your suffering when that despicable hag locked you up in the tower.” Said Graham.

“You have already made me so happy with our marriage. I hope I can make new friends with the people in your kingdom.” Said Valanice.

“I will introduce you to the lords, ladies and knights of the court tonight. I’m sure they will all want to meet their new queen.” 

   After the dancing was over, the people of the castle lined up to be introduced to the new queen. Valanice met the ladies in waiting, Beatrice, Catherine, Daphne, Isabel, and Madeleine.  The lords of the castle, Herbert, Allen, Damian, Geoffrey, Thomas and James were also introduced to her. Valanice met the courteous knights of the realm, Collin, Lucas, Murphy, Gareth, and David. The captain of the guards and master of arms was a tough burly middle-aged knight named Martin. His second-in-command was Sir Ciholas, who aided him in teaching and training the knights. The servants also introduced themselves to her. Their names were Emma, Mary, Lorna, Holly, Susan, Jack, Jonas, Alfred, Duncan and Walter. Humphrey was the castle steward, in charge of all the servants. Alfred was the butler, Olga was the cook, and Mary was the head laundress.

   The next day, after a good might’s sleep, Graham gave Valanice, Morena and Rupert a tour of the castle. They had already seen the main hall, the throne room, the dining room, ballroom and part of the gardens; Valanice slept in the royal bedroom, Morena and Rupert had guest bedrooms. Graham showed Valanice the solarium where the women of the castle spun, wove and sewed. He showed her the magnificent library, which she liked very much. Next were the council rooms where Graham met with his advisers in private, the armory and knights’ barracks, the kitchens, the servants’ quarters, the washroom where the maids did the laundry, the lavatory, the cellars where wine and other liquors were kept, the astronomy towers used to study the stars, the infirmary where the castle doctor, Dr. Abraham and his nurses tended the sick and made medicines, and the dungeons. Graham took them down a hall filled with portraits of past royalty. After lunch Graham gave her a tour of the beautiful royal gardens. Herbs, vegetables, and berries grew in a garden outside the castle’s kitchen. The former queen, King Edward’s wife Maylee, had planted a lovely rose garden before she died. There was also an orchard where apples, pears and cherries grew.

Morena was in awe of the grand castle.  “It looks like you have everything you could ever want here.” She said.

Graham chuckled. “I was greatly impressed by the castle when I first came here to train as a knight. But there are sometimes when you yearn for the freedom of the outdoors” He said.

“The castle garden is very beautiful Your roses look healthy and come in many different colors.” Valanice said. “Still, I would like to plant some more flowers here, maybe some lilacs and lilies.” 

“I’ll help you do that. I’ll find some seeds or plants for you.” Graham said. “You will have your own garden.”  Valanice smiled at him. “You are such a sweet husband.”

Morena looked at the loving couple and wished she could find such happiness with a young man of her own. How would she let Rupert know how she felt about him?

   â€œPerhaps now that you’ve seen the castle, I can arrange for a tour of the kingdom. The villagers would love to meet their new queen, you have not met the peasants yet.” Graham suggested.

“I would love that.” Said Valanice.

King Graham arranged for horses to be prepared for them in the royal stables. Then they took a horseback tour of the kingdom. The first place they went was Daventry village.

King Graham rode a handsome white stallion. Valanice rode a white mare. Rupert’s horse was a black stallion, Morena’s horse a chestnut mare.

[Rosedragon]

They passed some farms along the road from the castle to the village. Then they saw a watermill built over the river as they crossed the bridge. People came to the mill with sacks of grain to be ground into flour. Graham explained that the wooden mill over the river was quite old, and had served the people of Daventry for a long time.

   Next they saw a tavern. The tavern was a popular hang out for the commoners after they finished the day’s work. The villagers cleared the streets when they saw the royal couple and their friends riding through and bowed and clapped to the king and queen as they passed. Graham and his party rode slowly, because children and animals would occasionally run across the road with no warning. Graham showed his wife and her friends the black smith’s forge, that was a bit further away form the other shops in the village, due to the smell. He explained that his father had been a blacksmith and now his brother Farrel ran the smithy. 

   The carpenter’s business was almost as loud as the smith’s. The carpenter, Norman, was currently making a table for a wealthy lord. The smell of fresh cut wood filled the air and shavings and saw dust littered the area where the carpenter worked.

Graham showed Valanice to the tailor’s shop, which he thought she would like. He was right, Valanice was impressed by the quality of the cloth and of the clothes he had for sale.   Next was the shoemaker’s shop. The shoemaker was an old man who was talented with making all kinds of shoes for men, women and children. He had a good display in his window.

An apothecary had a store that sold herbs, salves and medicines next to the baker’s shop. A general store was next in line, and then came a butcher’s shop that sold all kinds of meat.

A farmer had a stall set up in the market place that sold fresh produce. Another stall sold eggs and butter. Another merchant sold sweets and candy. There was also a merchant who dealt in semi-precious jewelry, and ladies’ things, like combs, hand mirrors, belts and scarves. Another merchant sold weapons like daggers, bows, arrows, crossbows, spears, and slings.

King Graham said to Valanice, “We are leaving the village now. There are a few homes and the tannery is located on the outskirts of the village. The church is before the tannery, closer to the village. Some farms are located here and there. South and west of all of that, is the forest.”

Graham led the way to the church. “We’ve had a new priest, Bishop Patrick, that has convinced me to renovate the church. We are adding on to it, and a lot of people are working on it. The new church will have stain glass windows, stone pillars and a tiled floor. A lot of other priests and nuns have come to join our church and help with the project.”

Valanice, Morena and Rupert looked at all the work going on. “I’m sure they will make it a splendid church.” Valanice said.

“Your village is very nice.” Said Morena.

“Now let’s see the forest.” Graham said. He guided his horse down the road, past the tannery and the farmhouses near it. Finally they came to the forest after passing a meadow filled with wildflowers and clover.

Graham showed them the sites. There was the large oak tree where he found the golden egg, the old carrot garden, the pen where the goat was kept, and the bridge where he had lured the goat into knocking down the troll. Graham had the gingerbread house that the old witch had lived in torn down, and the sweet materials were distributed to the people to eat following his coronation. He was glad the old witch was dead. Graham also showed them the old vine covered well and the empty dragon cave. The fierce green dragon had fled Daventry in humiliation after Graham put out his fire with water. There was a hollow rock with a hole in it that glowed green. Graham explained that the leprechauns lived underground beneath the rock.

Valanice and her friends enjoyed the forest.  “You have a beautiful kingdom.” Morena said.

“Thank you. I am very proud of it. I am lucky that of all his knights, King Edward chose me to go on the quest to recover Daventry’s missing treasures. It is an honor and a privilege to be the leader of a special kingdom like this. I have done my best to make sure the kingdom prospers.”

“You have done a good job, my love.” Said Valanice.

“I am lucky to have found you, sweet Valanice. Kolyma is a wonderful kingdom too. Now that Hagatha and Dracula are gone, perhaps Kolyma can recover from the damage their evil has inflicted.”

“I certainly hope so.” Morena said.

“It’s getting late, let’s go back to the castle.” Said Graham. The group headed back to Castle Daventry. After a good supper, they all went to bed.


A few days later, Valanice was in her bedroom sitting at her vanity have her hair brushed by Morena. Graham called for his butler, Alfred.

Alfred came and bowed before him. “Yes my lord, what is your wish?” 

“My wife and I will have breakfast in bed this morning. Send in the servants. After that, I would like a bath drawn up for myself. I’m sure Valanice would like a hot bath as well. Then I will see my counselors in the library and discuss the trade agreement with Serenia.”

“Very well my lord, I will see that it is done.” Alfred left the king’s chambers to do as he was told.  Soon the maid came up with breakfast on a tray. Breakfast tea, along with blueberry muffins, eggs, bacon and fresh sliced tomatoes were served. There was cream and sugar for the tea, butter for the muffins and salt and pepper for the eggs and
tomatoes.

After breakfast Graham and Valanice took their baths and got dressed. Morena left the royal bedroom and went to the garden.

She smelled the roses in the royal rose garden. They were so beautiful. The roses came in red, white, yellow and pink. She did not dare pick any of the flowers. She sat down on a bench under the shade of an apple tree. The apple blossoms of spring were mostly gone, since it was summer there were green unripe apples on the tree. Morena rested for a while on the bench. Then she went to the courtyard where the knights were practicing their combat skills.

In the training yard, two young knights were locked in a practice sword fight with wooden swords. The Master of arms and Captain of the guards, who trained the knights, Martin, was giving directions to the knights.  In another part of the yard, the squires were practicing their archery by shooting at wooden targets. 

“Watch your footwork Lucas. Murphy, fight with your head and not your temper.
Murphy aggressively pushed at Lucas with hi sword, and managed to get under Fredrick’s guard and bring the wooden sword to his throat.

After Lucas lost, Martin called another young knight to take his place and battle Murphy in practice. Lucas found some one else to spar with.

Morena watched this with enthusiasm.  Murphy with another knight, Gareth and this time Gareth one.

Morena greeted the Master of arms. “Good morning, Sir Martin. Good morning brave knights. I am Morena of Kolyma, a friend of Lady Valanice’s. I suppose I should say Queen Valanice now. You knights are doing an excellent job of sharpening your fighting skills.”

“Thank you, my lady.” Said Captain Martin. I am in charge of all the knights and guards at the castle. I train the boys to be brave and skilled knights, they are also taught courtesy and honor.”

“I heard King Graham was a knight before he became king.” Morena said.

“Aye my lady, I’ve never met a more clever lad. I’ve been Captain of the guards for a long time and have not seen his like. He went on a few quests to rid Daventry of goblins and bandits, and has slain ogres before his quest to become king.”

“King Graham is a good and noble man. He bravely stood up to the evil witch Hagatha in Kolyma, even though her magic could have killed him. I like what I have seen of Daventry. I wonder…perhaps your knights could have time to give me a lesson in fencing? I have sparred with swords before with my friends in Kolyma.”

“I don’t know about that my lady, it might not be a good idea, you being a lady and all.”
Said Captain Martin.

“I can handle anything your knights can dish out. I see it as my duty to protect Valanice, she has been my friend for long time, and I helped King Graham to rescue her. I need to improve my martial skills. I’m not the only woman who fights with a sword. I have heard of the legendary amazons, who live in a land far away in the west.”

“All right milady, I will have one of my knights teach you something of fencing. But don’t say I didn’t warn you. They are quite tough, and won’t go easy on you for being female.”  Captain Martin ordered Sir Murphy to practice with Morena. Morena was given a wooden practice sword.

The opponents took their positions. Morena circled Murphy, waiting for him to make the first move. He charged and brought his wooden blade up against hers. She blocked all his moves. There swords were locked together and neither one would give. Seeing she could not get past him, Morena drew back, her wooden sword held out in front of her. Murphy swung at her again, and this time she swung back, hitting his wrist sharply and making him drop his sword.

Martin whistled. “Not bad milady, not bad. I see you have enough skill to defeat Sir Murphy.”  Sir Murphy scowled, obviously embarrassed at being defeated by a girl.

“There is a lad from Kolyma, a friend of yours I believe who came here to train as a knight. You might want to practice with him.”

“Rupert? How is he doing in his training?” Morena asked.

“I’ve been toughening him up. He’s only been here a few days, so he hasn’t had much time to make progress.”  Rupert came out of the barracks wearing a padded, quilted leather jacket designed to wear under armor. He wiped sweat from his brow. In his hand he held a wooden practice sword. A tall, burly man in chain mail with blond hair and beard came out after him. Other boys his age, wearing quilted leather jackets like his, came out of the barracks too.

“Let’s see how you boys fight under the sun’s light.” Said the knight in chain mail.

“Sir Nicholas, how is it going teaching the squires?” asked Captain Martin.

“Just fine, Sir Martin. They’re learning the bookwork, and every time we practice fighting, they learn something. It will take a while before these puppies are ready to become knights, though. This job gets better every year.”

Rupert walked up to Morena and noticed she wore a peach tunic and cream tights.

“I guess you don’t like dresses too much.” He said to her. “Did you come here to fight?”

“You bet I did. And I’m ready to take you on.” She raised her wooden sword.

“Oh really?” Rupert charged at her. She held up her sword to fend off the blow and pushed forward with the blade, making Rupert back up. He tried to thrust his sword beneath hers and get at her stomach, but she blocked him again. They swung back and forth at each other, the wooden blades knocking together with the sound of wood against wood.  Morena stepped on Rupert’s foot as they came closer together.

“Ow! Hey, that’s cheating!” He declared. “In a real battle your enemies will not obey any rules, and will do anything to win against you and kill you.” Morena said.

“But this is practice, you have to go by rules.” Rupert protested.

“No cat fighting? I’m so disappointed.” Morena said sarcastically. Rupert swung back at her viciously. She still managed to block him. The fight dragged on for many minutes. Morena was getting tired and sweating profusely. Rupert was sweating a lot too. Rupert craftily slipped under her defense and brought his wooden sword to her chest, slipping beneath Morena’s sword.

“I win.” He declared.

“So you do. I give up.” Morena backed away and lowered her sword. “I’m going to cool off.  Good luck in your training, Rue.” She left the training yard and went to the castle well, located near the gardens. Morena drew up a bucketful of cold, clean well water. She drunk the water and splashed some of it over her head. Then she went inside the castle.

She found Valanice in the halls talking with Lady Catherine.

“Oh, hello Morena. You look all wet. What have you been doing?” Valanice said.

“I was fencing with the knights. I had a good sword fight with Sir Edwin and Rupert.”

“It is unseemly for a lady to practice fencing, especially with the training knights.” Said Lady Catherine, looking down at her with disapproval.

“Ladies must learn to defend themselves too.” Morena argued.

“Queen Valanice, what do you think of this?” Lady Catherine asked her.   
   
“I think that if a woman has the strength and desire to learn how to use a sword, it is a good thing. There are women who prefer swords and the martial arts to silk dresses and embroidery lessons.”

“Hmph! I would think that such women could hardly be called women. If you choose to surround your self with this tomboy, my lady, then it is your personal business. But you can’t expect the ladies of the court to approve of her going around wearing boy’s clothes fighting with the knights and coming in here dripping with sweat. Good day to you, Queen Valanice.” With that, Lady Catherine left them.

“What a snob!” Morena said when the woman was out of earshot.

“What a shame, she seemed so friendly when we were talking a few minutes ago. She told me about King Edward, the former king, and his wife the former Queen Maylie. It’s so sad that poor Maylie died young with no children, breaking King Edward’s heart. Lady Catherine said that everyone was pleased that King Graham returned with a charming and beautiful bride to be queen. She said she hoped we would have many children together.” Valanice blushed. “She also said that she and the other ladies-in-waiting would be happy to assist me in my queenly duties. I have a lot to do. I must plan the meals, oversee the cleaning, up-keep and repair of the castle, oversee the ladies and maids who make clothes for the people of the castle, instruct the servants to make soap, perfume and liquor for us to drink. I will be in charge of decorating the castle and planning social events. 

“I’m sure you will do well in your duties as queen. Your parents did prepare you for this. And I hope you and King Graham have beautiful children. I’m sure you and Graham will raise them up right too.” Morena said.

“Thank you.” Valanice winked at Morena. “Let me assure you, Graham and I are trying as hard as we can to have a child!”

Morena laughed. “Enjoy yourself. You are lucky to be married to such a kind and caring man.”

“I’m sure you will find one for yourself some day, dear.” Valanice said.

“With my ugly looks, I doubt a man would want me.” Morena said bitterly.

“Don’t be so hard on yourself. Love is not based on looks, but on personality and true beauty comes from the heart.” Valanice told her.

“You are sweet as ever, Val.” Said Morena.  Valanice took her arm. “Why don’t you go take a cool bath? Then we can go into the library and see all the wonderful books in the Castle? I have already ordered the days meals from Olga.

“A bath sounds nice, and I love books.” Morena hurried off to bathe the sweat from her.


Half an hour later, Valanice and Morena met in the library. The library was a magnificent, huge room with marble pillars. There was a large polished cherry desk where the librarian kept stock of all the books. Tall shelves filled with books on every subject lined the walls. There was a marble fireplace with comfortable chairs, a couch and tables around it for reading in comfort. There were rows of bookshelves standing around the reading area. They asked the librarian, Lady Madeleine, for help finding the historical section. Lady Madeleine gladly showed them around the library and told them where the different sections were.

Valanice and Morena enjoyed reading about the history of Daventry.

Daventry was discovered by wizards from another world, seeking refuge from persecution. The great wizard Merlin and his lover Viviane the fairy were the first to enter the world of Daventry. Later on, Merlin brought the followers of his deceased king, Arthur of Camelot, to Daventry. Morgan le Fey’s daughter Nimue, King Arthur and Queen Guienevere’s daughter Gwendolyn, and Sir Lancelot settled in Daventry. Many people followed the fairies into the realm of Daventry when the people of the old world became harsh and cruel and thought magic was an evil to be persecuted. However, another reason for their flights was the raids of Vikings and barbarians who seasonally attacked their old countries. 

These people settled in different realms, such as Daventry, Kolyma, Serenia, Tamir, the Land of the Green Isles and Eldritch. Some areas were more populated than others, and many places in the Daventry world were yet to be discovered. In the fair kingdom of Daventry, the king and his knights followed the old code of justice from Camelot. The knights sought to remain true to this code of conduct and honor throughout the ages.

The Old Code goes like this:
“A knight I sworn to valor,
His heart knows only virtue,
His blade defends the helpless,
His might upholds the weak.
His words speak only truth,
His wrath undoes the wicked.” 

Valanice thought it was a fine standard for the knights to live up too.

[Rosedragon]

Valanice and Morena became hungry; it was time for lunch.  Those who ate at the royal dining table were privileged. For now, King Graham, his wife, his counselors, ambassadors from foreign lands, the court wizard Cormac, the lords and ladies of the court, and his favorite knights sat at the table. The dining table was quite long and had many seats. Graham imagined that one day his children would dine with him in this room.

The servants brought out the food, beef stew with bread, cheese and fruit. Dinner would be more elaborate than lunch. Water and tea were drunk with the meal; the wine would be reserved for dinner.

Valanice said to Graham, “I have seen the royal seamstress and she has measured me for several new dresses. I would like you to see the seamstress and get a new suit of clothes as well.”

“I’m perfectly fine, I have enough red shirts, I don’t need any more new clothes.” Graham said.

“But dear, you’re a king, and you should look like one. The red shirts are fine for ordinary days but what about when foreign dignitaries come to visit? What about festival days? You really should have nice formal clothes for these occasions.”

Graham sighed. Like most men, he could care less about clothes. But he was a king, and he had to look regal sometimes. To please his wife, he would see the seamstress.

“I’ll look into getting some new clothes.” He said.

Valanice beamed.

Graham changed the subject. “I will have time to spend with you this afternoon, now that I have the morning business taken care of. I’d hate to think that I’d be so busy as a king that I would not have time to spend with my family.”

Valanice took his hand under the table. “I want to get to know my new husband as much as I can.” She said.

“You’re so sweet and agreeable we have yet to have our first argument.” Graham said.

Valanice giggled. “I’m sure will have one soon.”


   Sure enough, the next day Graham and Valanice had their first argument.

Graham was getting dressed in the morning, he started to put on his red shirt and blue trousers.

“Don’t tell me you’re wearing the same thing, again, Graham. You have worn a red shirt with sky-blue trosuers for every day of this week. I’ve seen the inside of your closets, you have sets of clothes all matching each other. Don’t you want to wear something different? How about this nice white shirt with black trousers?”

“Valanice, these are my favorite colors. I always wear red shirt with blue pants. The people know me by sight, by my outfit. It’s a mark of who I am.”

“Well perhaps you could wear something else that’s red and blue. Like a jerkin or a new tunic, or royal robe.”

“A robe is like a dress. I told you I would order new clothes form the seamstress. You women are always thinking about clothes.”

“It is up to us women to see that the men in our lives are dressed properly. That is why women spin and weave and sew.” 

“You are in charge of the ladies who make the cloth. We sometimes have professional tailors make our formal clothes for special occasions; but usually it is done by the women of the castle. However, you don’t have to sew yourself unless you want to, the ladies in waiting and maids can take care of that.

“And I am grateful to you for providing for me so well. Few women are lucky enough to marry a king. But for heaven’s sake, can you wear something other than that red shirt?

“All right then, I will wear this burgundy shirt.”

Valanice sighed, seeing that she couldn’t win. She got dressed in a purple satin dress.       

They met Morena and Rupert in the hallway on their way to breakfast. Morena was talking to the middle-aged Lady Beatrice.

“You’ll fit right in at Daventry, dear. We are not so different from other kingdoms. Don’t worry about what Lady Catherine said. I have traveled with my husband, I wear men’s breeches myself when on horseback. I wanted to have grand adventurers and be a hero when I was a girl.” Beatrice sighed. “I’m no longer young, and it seems my dreams have not come true.”

“There’s still time for you to make your dreams come true.” Morena said.

“Not those childhood fancies. I have grown past them, and I have a happy life.”

Valanice and Graham approached them. “I’m glad to see you are making friends with the ladies of the castle.” Valanice said.

“Good morning your majesties. How are you today?” Lady Beatrice greeted them.

“Quite well, my lady.” Said Graham.

They all entered the dining room. Breakfast that morning was simple; they had porridge sweetened with honey and milk, with a sprinkling of cinnamon on top. Coffee was there for them to drink.

Morena ate her breakfast and then headed to the library. She wanted to read some romance and adventure novels written by local Daventry authors. In the hall she bumped into Cormac, the court wizard.

“Excuse me, sir.” She said.

“Watch where your going, girl.” The wizard scowled at her. Then his face brightened. “Why, you are Queen Valanice’s maid, from Kolyma. I have heard of you.” He said.

“I was Valanice’s friend before I became her maid, she decided to make me her personal handmaid after I helped King Graham rescue her form the tower. And I have heard of you too. You are said to be a good and wise wizard.” She replied.

“I hear you have some magical powers, and know some spells.” Cormac said.

“That is true, but I am loathe to use magic now, I have thought of giving up what I learned of magic.” Said Morena.

“Why would you want to do something so foolish? Those who have the gift for magic have a duty to practice magic with wisdom and prudence, and to learn what they can of the art. You should not give up your talents because of the fears of a few superstitious fools.” Cormac instructed her.

“My grandmother was one of those superstitious fools. She believed magic was dangerous and evil, and she regretted that I learned magic and had a knack for it.”

“Your grandmother is wrong. Magic is a tool same as any other, it is the one who wields
it who is good or evil. If you will come with me, I will give you some pointers on magic. I can show you how to make sure your spells are accurate and show you some basic attack spells that will help you fight evil forces.” Cormac offered.

“Hmm, perhaps I should sharpen my rusty magic skills.” Morena said. “I think I will continue to practice magic.” 

“You have made a wise decision. Come with me to my workshop in the tower, and I will show you many things, young lady.”

   Morena followed Cormac to his wizard’s tower, which was the highest tower in the castle. The room was large and round, and very crowded. A desk with a chair and space for writing took up the back part of the room. There was a large map of the world that completely covered the west wall. A shelf of books was against the north wall, another shelf filled with herbs and potion ingredients was next to it. There was a round table with a bronze brazier, a three-branched candlestick, a mortar and pestle and a crystal ball. Animal skulls were on top of the books shelf. Another chair and a stool were around the table. A wizard’s staff with a blue crystal leaned against the wall. An ivory wand was locked up in a glass case on top of a wooden cabinet.

“Do you have a wand, Morena?” Cormac asked her.

“No, sir.” She replied.
   
“Well, you certainly need one if you are going to be a good magician. I can make one for you out of wood. The best kind of wood to use is willow, hawthorn or oak. All three of these trees have magical properties. I think there is a fairy tree, a hawthorn tree, in the forest. I can get a stick from it and make it into a wand.” Cormac said.

“I would appreciate that very much Cormac.” Morena said.


“Now that’s out of the way, let’s work on some basic protection spells.” Cormac took a book with a black leather cover off of the shelf. The title on it, written in fancy gold letters, said “Magical protection from harm and evil.”

   â€œHere we are.” The wizard said. “Protection from demons and other hellish creatures, protection from evil witches and warlocks, protection from vampires and the undead, protection from werewolves, protection from dragons, protection from poisonous creatures such as snakes and scorpions, protection from Medusa and the basilisk, protection from trolls and ogres, protection from minotaurs and harpies.”


   Cormac went through the book and told Morena the words to the spells. He made sure she memorized the words.  Morena said the words to the protection spells over and over again until she had memorized them.


   â€œNow let’s go out into the forest and make your wand.”  Cormac said.
He took Morena into the forest of Daventry and they found the hawthorn tree. Morena cut a stick from its branches and set to work peeling it. They took the stick into Cormac laboratory, and he rubbed a magic salve over it, and said magical words over it.
   
   â€œNow the wand must be laid out in moonlight for a whole night. There is a full moon tonight, this is the perfect opportunity.” Cormac told her.

They lay the stick in the garden where the full moon would shine on it during the whole night.

   In the morning Morena collected her wand. The wand had a faint silvery tinge to the whitish wood.  “Now you have your very own wand, child.” Cormac said.


   They tested her wand by mixing up the ingredients to an invisibility spell. Cormac let her keep the jar of invisibility ointment, telling her it might come in handy some time. Next they cast a spell that would allow them to understand the speech of animals. Morena was amazed by what she heard from the birds, rats, cats, dogs and horses of the castle.

   â€œThank you for teaching me what you know about magic. I was silly to think I could give up magic and not miss it.” Morena said to Cormac.


   â€œI am always eager to help a new student of the art. Promise me you will only use your power for good, and do not let the power swell your head. Remember to remain humble and not think yourself above the common people for your gifts.” Cormac instructed her.

   â€œI promise I will do that.” Morena swore. “Now I would like to see Queen Valanice.” 


   Morena found Valanice in the castle garden. It was the evening of the second day that Cormac had taught her magic. Valanice sat with Graham on a bench around a fountain, under the shade of a cherry tree. Valanice wore a red rose in her hair. It went well with her red dress.

   â€œYour majesties.” Morena said as she approached them.


   â€œOh please, Morena do not be so formal with us.” Graham said. “Please just call us Graham and Valanice.”


   â€œI don’t think I could get used to being informal after learning that you’re a king and you’ve made Valanice your queen. I just got used to saying ‘my lord’, and ‘my lady’, and ‘your majesty’.” Morena said.


   â€œVery well, call us what you want.” Valanice said.

“Thank you, Valanice my dear friend.” Morena said.


   â€œMorena, we have wonderful news. We can’t be sure just yet, but we think that Valanice may be pregnant!” Graham told her.


   Valanice smiled at Graham. “I so wish to give you beautiful children for our heirs.” She said.


   â€œWe will call the doctor tomorrow to examine Valanice and see if it’s true.” Said Graham. “Children would make the whole kingdom happy. We really don’t want to repeat King Edward’s mistake of having no heirs.” 


   Valanice leaned her head on Graham’s shoulder. “I feel it in my heart that I am pregnant. I haven’t had my period for two months now, and I’ve had morning sickness. I believe there is little one growing inside me.” 

Graham kissed her. “We will find out for sure tomorrow.”

The sun was setting, and King Graham and Queen Valanice went back into the castle after sunset. Morena followed them.

   That night supper was delicious. They had roast venison from a deer King Graham and his courtiers and knights had caught while hunting in the forest. Onions and potatoes were served with the deer, and leek soup was also served. For dessert the cook Olga baked a cherry pie. Valanice had instructed Olga on what food was to be prepared, and how it was to be cooked.

The next morning Graham called in Dr. Abraham, the royal doctor, to examine Valanice and see if she was pregnant. The good doctor announced joyfully that the queen was indeed carrying a child, as matter of fact he suspected that she might give birth to twins.

   King Graham told the court the good news. The lords and ladies of the castle cheered when they heard that her majesty was expecting. This was good news for the whole kingdom. 

   On Saturday the royal family and their household went to mass at the Cathedral of Daventry. King Graham was pleased to see that the construction to add on to the church and make it a grand cathedral was going well. The gold from the magic treasure chest paid for the construction. The peasants had more jobs thanks to the building projects going on. Bishop Patrick gladly greeted the king when he came to church. “Your majesty, thanks to your generosity with the gold from the magic chest, the kingdom is prospering well and starvation has been eliminated. Now we can have this glorious cathedral to serve the Lord in. The people will be pleased that they can have such a magnificent place to worship in. And it will house many monks and nuns as well.”

[Rosedragon]

Though she hated wearing dresses, it was required that she wear one for certain events, like going to church and for the royal balls. Morena wore a sky blue linen dress to mass with a white lace headscarf. It was only proper that women cover their head while in church. Valanice wore a pink silk dress trimmed in gold embroidery with a white veil underneath her crown. King Graham wore a white shirt with a blue jerkin over it, black pants and a red cloak. He had followed Valanice’s advice and gotten new clothes made for him. 
   
   Bishop Patrick wore the white, green and gold robes of an official bishop of the church. He gave a sermon on love, charity and compassion. He read the story of the Good Samaritan form the bible. The church choir, made up of children, monks and nuns with good voices, sang sweet hymns. There was also an organ in the cathedral, played by a talented old priest. Other musical instruments, harps, lutes, flutes, and drums were used to praise god during the church service. He invited the parishioners up to the altar to take communion. They went in order of rank. The King and Queen went first. Then came the highest ranking nobles, then the other nobles, then the knights and servants of the castle. Morena went somewhere in the middle. The peasants went last. 
   
   Morena prayed for the safety of King Graham and Queen Valanice and for the safe birth of their child. A lot of things could go wrong for a queen in childbirth.


   The mass was over at noon, and the people went home for lunch. That afternoon Graham and Valanice discussed baby names.
   
   â€œI like the name Alexander. I had a brother named Alexander. He wanted to be a wizard, but he died in the plague when he was nine, the same one that killed Queen Maylee.” Graham said.

   â€œIf we have a girl I would like to name her after a flower. Perhaps Rose or Lily.” Valanice said.

   â€œMy mother’s name was Rose.” Graham said. “Perhaps we could spice it up. Rosalyn or Rosalie, or maybe Rosetta.”

   â€œI know, how about Rosella?” Valanice said.

“It’s a lovely name, perfect for a little princess.” Graham replied.   

Graham and Valanice discussed other baby names, but Alexander and Rosella were the ones they liked best. They also discussed other names they liked, like Allen, Brendan, Brian, Rory, Rosabelle, Belinda, Arabella, and Gwendolyn. 

   Morena continued to practice the martial arts with Captain Martin and his knights.
Besides swordplay and archery she learned hand-to-hand combat, like boxing and wrestling.  She kept the fat from the fine food of the castle off of her with daily exercise.

   Valanice liked to take walks through the castle garden and the pleasant part of the woods and meadows around Castle Daventry. This kept her in shape, and she was careful about what she ate. The doctor recommended that she eat more fruits and vegetables and less starches like bread and sweets. Valanice followed her doctor’s advice. Graham also insisted on eating healthy food. They had a salad with their meal everyday. Doctor Abraham recommended that they eat less red meat and be careful about the amount of wine they consumed. Valanice could have no alcohol while she was pregnant. That was fine with her; she never did like the taste of alcohol that much.

   Morena also learned more of magic from the court wizard Cormac. Castle Daventry had a fine library and she enjoyed broadening her mind with the knowledge from the books.

   Much to her disappointment, Rupert was falling in love with a pretty, charming, feminine young lady of the court, Lady Daphne. He picked flowers for her in the woods, and she gave him a ribbon as a sign of her favor. Rupert even started reading love poems from the castle’s library to her. Morena was jealous. She told her problems to Valanice.

   â€œWhat am I going to do?” She moaned. “He only thinks of me as a friend, not a lover. He thinks Lady Daphne is perfect; he doesn’t want a homely tomboy like me.”

   â€œRupert will find out Lady Daphne is not perfect when he really gets to know her. No one is perfect. Perhaps Rupert is not the right man for you, if he does not appreciate you. You will find your true love someday.” Valanice promised her. “Beauty is not required for true love. You are strong and brave, and talented in magic and combat. Some man will surely appreciate your good qualities one day.”

   â€œI certainly hope so.” Morena replied.

“Perhaps if you tell Rupert how you feel….” Valanice suggested.

   â€œIt’s too late for that. He will only think I am trying to take him away from Lady Daphne. I’ll have to find someone else.”

   â€œI wish you the best of luck. Please don’t be so unhappy.” Valanice said.

In the next few months, Morena decided to study some books on royal etiquette. Knowing which fork to use and how to curtsey and knowing the proper title to call the different ranks of nobility was more than useful living in a royal castle. She tried to act more feminine and lady-like, and wore dresses even though she didn’t like them.
However, she continued to practice her fighting skills and magic skills. She knew it would come in handy if she had to protect Valanice from danger. Morena took in a pet, a little gray and white cat she found wandering the village as a stray. She named the cat Misty, and She became Morena’s constant companion. Misty was a smart and curious cat. She explored every inch of the castle.  Morena found a spell that allowed her to communicate with Misty. The little gray and white cat slept on Morena’s bed every night.

   The royal tailor and seamstress visited the castle and made new clothes for Graham and Valanice. They also made clothes for Morena and the other lords and ladies of the court. Valanice had not started to show her pregnancy yet, but when she did she would need some new clothes. King Graham had royal garments made for him. The summer faded into autumn. The weather grew cooler and the leaves changed color and began to fall from the trees. All Hallows Eve came, a mysterious magical time when people feared that the fairies and leprechauns would kidnap people and keep them in their underground worlds as prisoners. The dead also visited this world at All Hallows Eve, sometimes called Samhain. Ghosts returned to their earthly homes and visited the living members of their families.  The king held a costume ball on All Hallows Eve. The ballroom was decorated with Jack-o-lanterns, autumn leaves made out of paper or corn silk, flowers, and colorful streamers and banners. The autumn tapestries were put up. The autumn tapestries showed a hunting scene in a forest filled with autumn foliage. The king and his nobles and knights pursued a handsome stag.  Morena dressed as a witch queen, she wore a long black lacy dress, a purple cape covered in stars and a tall, pointy, broad-brimmed black witch’s hat with a purple band. Valanice dressed as the fairy queen Titania and had a beautiful set of fairy wings made for her to match her gown of purple, pink, gold and silver. King Graham went as the fairy king Oberon. Rupert wore a ridiculous dragon costume.

Later on during autumn the farmers reaped a fine harvest, and it came time for the harvest feast. King Graham held the harvest feast in his castle. It was a grand feast with lots of food. Beef, venison, lamb, chicken, peasant, quail, ham and fish were served. There were fine soups and salads prepared, Olga the cook made fresh bread and cheese, sweet potato casserole, corn, baked potatoes, beans, mustard greens, green beans, brown rice, pirogies, lasagna, pasta dishes, falafel, potato pancakes, beef pastries, chicken pot pie, lamb cakes, deviled eggs, bread pudding, apple strudel, pumpkin pie, pecan pie, and custard.

   After the feast there was a dance. Morena wore a yellow dress to the feast and dance. She danced with several of the knights, and noticed that Rupert would dance only with Daphne.  Sir Collin expressed an interest in her while they danced. The royal bard, Taren, played with several other musicians that entertained at the feast and dance.
   
   Morena carefully followed Sir Collin’s lead and the steps of the dance carefully. The music changed pace, and soon the dancers were dancing a reel. The reel was fast and lively and fun. Next came the fandango. A waltz was danced as the music slowed down. The night ended with slow dancing.

Valanice wore an emerald green silk dress to the ball. Graham wore a formal-style red jacket and navy trousers with black boots.

   Everyone had fun at the feast and dance. Everyone left with a full, aching belly.

Valanice learned to knit from an elderly lady of the castle, and she started making baby clothes. The other ladies of the castle made clothes for the future royal children as well.

Morena tried to improve her skills in sewing and cooking, which were traditional womanly occupations. She helped out Olga with her recipes, and helped the maids clean up the castle, though it was not expected of her. Taren the bard and other castle musicians entertained them.


Morena read books of baby names to Valanice, in case she changed her mind on what she wanted to name her baby. Morena read books on history, magic, science, poetry, and some adventure novels by Pierce Xanthology. She also played chess and card games with her friends. She continued to practice her martial skills with the knights. Misty the cat became very spoiled by Morena, but she was a sweet cat and loved to be petted. Misty stayed away from the king’s hunting hounds of course and the hawks used for hunting.


The work on the new cathedral was finished. It looked magnificent. Mass was held in the cathedral. A lot of people donated whatever they could to the church, including food, cloth, building materials and money. Incense came from merchants that brought the exotic spices like myrrh, cassia, sandalwood and patchouli from over seas. Roses, violets, lilies, lilacs, honeysuckle and lavender were used for perfumery and incense by the royals. The church had beautiful, colorful stain glass windows, walls and pillars made of marble, and a tiled floor. A pattern of geometric and floral designs was worked into the mosaic tiles that covered the floor. Statues of Jesus, the Virgin Mary and the saints stood in the prominent places at the front of the church. A large wooden painted crucifix was behind the altar; the altar was covered in a lovely embroidered cloth. Golden candlesticks, golden chalice and plate for the Eucharist, served the community. The church was not just a fancy, gilded place of worship, it served the community by offering charity to the poor and a place to stay for beggars, the priests and nuns were trained somewhat in medicine, and could tend the injuries and illnesses of the peasants, people with problems or disputes came to the priests for them to judge between them and help them make the right decision.


Winter came, and soon it would be time for Christmas. The king spent the money in the magic chest to give to the peasantry for Christmas; people usually received two new sets of clothes and new shoes for Christams from the government. Everyone loved Christmas, people decorated with holly, ivy and mistletoe. The finest evergreen trees in the forest were cut down to make Christmas trees. Wizards provided magical strings of light trapped in little crystal balls for people to decorate their trees. Other tree decorations were ribbons, carved wooden ornaments, glass balls, gilded ornaments and lace ornaments in the shape of angels, elves, candy canes, gingerbread men, toy soldiers, horses, nativity figures, stars, fruit, poinsettia flowers, fairies, birds, Santa Claus, and animals.


King Graham, Queen Valanice, Morena, Rupert and some other knights and lords and ladies of the castle went into the forest to find the best tree. They found a tall majestic balsam fir to use as a Christmas tree. The knights cut down the tree and they dragged it back to the castle on a sleigh. During the Christmas season people joyfully sang carols and went to friend’s house to eat, and of course the merchants were busy selling Christmas presents. Balls and feasts were held at the royal castle and at noblemen’s castles. One of the village grandfathers was chosen to play Santa Claus and he dressed up in a costume and gave presents to the village children. When the ponds and rivers were frozen, people went ice-skating. Sledding and riding in sleighs, building snowmen and having snowball fights were also common winter pastimes. The church was also busy, as people celebrated the days of Advent. The Christmas feast and ball was celebrated on the evening of December twenty-fourth.. Valanice wore a red velvet dress trimmed in white fur and embroidery of holly leaves. Morena wore a dark green velvet dress trimmed in beads and green lace.  Graham wore a long sleeved red surcoat trimmed in white fur with green pants and a Santa Claus hat.

Morena received the best Christmas presents she had ever gotten that Christmas. King Graham gave her a rapier with a silver wire handle set with a lustrous white pearl. Valanice gave her a spell book on the most famous wizards’ one hundred and one best spells. From Rupert she received a small dagger that matched the rapier with the pearl that Graham gave her. Her friend Sir Collin gave her a pair of leather gloves for protecting her hands while fighting. Captain Martin gave her a leather cuirass in her size. Sir Nicholas gave her a small steel shield engraved with the royal crest of Daventry, which was a quartered shield with a rose, clover, acorn and fish on it. A unicorn and lion chargers stood to the side of the shield, topped by a crown, with the motto, “Credendo Vidis underneath it. Her gift from Sir Gareth was a pair of leather boots intended for protection in battle. Sir David gave her a fine new longbow. From Sir Lucas she received a quiver of fine new arrows. Her gift from Lord Geoffrey was a fur trimmed blue cloak. Cormac the wizard gave her a rose quartz charm bracelet that would bring good luck and true love. Lady Beatrice gave her a carved and painted wooden jewelry box. The box was carved and painted with a beautiful phoenix design.  From Lady Daphne she received a golden and carnelian cloak brooch. Lady Madeleine’s present was a gold crucifix. The servants who were her friends, like Lorna, gave her a set of bayberry-scented candles. Mary gave her a lace handkerchief, Jack gave her a bag of potpourri, and Olga gave her a box of hand-made chocolates.

Morena gave Valanice a lapis lazuli amulet set in silver, with matching pair of earrings. She gave Graham a black leather belt with a gold buckle. Her gift to Rupert was a sturdy leather backpack. She gave Cormac a bottle of fairy dust she got from Graham’s fairy godmother, Gloriana. She gave Captain Martin a book on ancient hand-to-hand fighting techniques from the east. The rest of her friends received presents of minimal value that she had thought carefully about what each one’s needs were and would fit their characteristics. Everyone had a jolly Christmas; Morena got drunk for the first time. She drunk a bit at the New Year’s Eve party, but not enough to relive the first hangover. 

The winter days were for the most part gloomy and boring inside the castle while the snow and cold blew on around the castle walls. But the aristocracy was excellent at finding ways to amuse themselves during the long months trapped inside the castle. The holidays were a welcome diversion. One more winter holiday, Valentine’s Day, the day of lovers would come and bring cheer during the long winter. Rupert told Morena that he planned to propose to Lady Daphne after he was made a knight. She still loved Rupert, she was heartbroken.


It seemed that Sir Collin had taken an interest in her. He asked her to be his Valentine, and gave her a card and a dozen red roses. Morena was surprised that he had chosen her when he could have had any of the pretty maidens of the castle. She kissed him happily while in the library. They went together to the Valentine’s Day ball. It seemed that at Castle Daventry every holiday was celebrated with a ball. The kingdom of Daventry certainly knew how to party. St. Patrick’s Day and Easter were not celebrated with a ball. However there was an Easter egg hunt in the royal gardens for the children of the kingdom, and candy like chocolate bunnies and eggs, jellybeans, and marshmallow chicks were eaten. Olga also baked a cake for Easter.


Morena enjoyed Valentine’s Day and she spent most of it with Collin. His affections helped build her self-esteem.


At last the long winter thawed into spring. The snow began to melt and birds returned from the winter migration. The trees grew fresh new green leaves, and buds appeared. Doctor Abraham had predicted that Valanice would give birth probably in March, possibly to twins. She first found out she was pregnant in August, and by that time she had already been one month pregnant. Sure enough, after St. Patrick’s Day she went into labor.   


Morena heard from a servant that Valanice had gone into labor. She hurried to Valanice’s room.


Dr. Abraham was there with his nurse Bernadette. The guards would not let her into the room. Morena waited outside the door, pacing frantically. The other lords and ladies of the castle gathered outside the door and waited for news about the queen and her royal babies.


Inside Valanice’s room, Dr. Abraham gave Valanice a potion for the pain that would not harm the baby. He and his nurse held her hands and helped her to push. Graham was there, speaking encouraging words to Valanice. Valanice, in her long white linen nightgown, sweated and practiced the deep breathing Dr. Abraham had taught her while she pushed.


Some hours later the door opened and Morena and Rupert were allowed into the room. Valanice held one baby while Bernadette held the other. The babies had their cords cut and were washed.

“Look Morena, I have twins, a boy and a girl. The boy is Alexander, the girl is Rosella.” Morena took baby Rosella in her arms. The newborn baby cried and opened her eyes. She had beautiful large blue eyes.  The babies were red and bald.

Valanice began to feed her twin babies, and Morena went out of the room. Dr. Abraham went out of the room and nounced to the people of the castle that the queen had given birth to twins, a boy named Alexander and a girl named Rosella.

The people cheered, and went to bed, as it was now nighttime. Morena went to her room to go to bed, but she was too excited to sleep. She tossed and turned for a while, and as she lay in bed, she began to fear for Valanice’s safety. Suppose Hagatha had survived the fall from the crystal tower and returned for revenge upon Valanice and her family?

[Rosedragon]

With s sinking feeling of dread, Morena left her room and walked down the hall to Valanice and Graham’s royal bedroom. She gasped when she saw a guard slumped over outside the door, passed out. She heard Valanice scream from inside her bedroom. Morena flung open the door, and saw Hagatha standing over Graham and Valanice’s bed menacingly, Graham and Valanice clung to each other in terror. Morena threw an energy bolt at Hagatha, who was not excpecting it. Hagatha screamed in pain, then rrecovered and threw a blast of dark magic at Morena. Morena had been expecting it and she cast a counter spell to ward it off. Then she raised the rapier she had brought with her and charged at Hagatha. Hagatha threw a lightning bolt at Morena, but she ducked and the bolt hit the wall, knocking books off of a shelf.

Morena threw another energy ball at Hagatha, this time the witch cast a shield spell. Morena too cast a shield spell around herself, and cast a fire spell on her sword, the sword glowed with a flaming blade as she swung at Hagatha’s throat. The evil old hag ducked and the rapier hit the wall. She raised her bony green hand and struck at Morena’s face. Morena gasped as the wicked harridan’s sharp fingernails grazed her cheek, leaving bloody marks. She was lucky she was not hit in the eye.  Morena sword nicked Hagatha’s arm. Morena threw a fire bolt at Hagatha and it struck her in the chest, she quickly but it out with her own magic but was doubled over in pain. Morena struck her with her flaming blade; the sword cut a deep slash in her chest.  Hagatha was now on fire, she screamed and jumpd around the room before remembering the words to the spell to put the fire out. Sufferig from burns she gasped raggedly and glared at Morena with hate. She started casting a power dark magic ball to kill Morena but Morena threw a bolt of lightning at her before she could. Hagatha screamed again, and Morena took the opportunity to get her with the sword, she thrust at the witch’s heart and the rapier struck home and pierced her evil black heart. Hagatha shrieked as she felt herself weakening and dying. Morena cast and energy ball and threw it at her head. She pulled out her sword and Hagatha crumpled into a heap on the floor.

Graham left the bed and came to Morena were she stood with Hagatha’s body.
He knelt and pulled the witch’s head back, looking at her blank eyes and slack mouth.

“Hagatha appears to be dead.” He said. “Thank you so much, Morena. You have saved both my life and the life of my beloved wife. You are a true heroine. You will be greatly rewarded for this brave and noble act of saving out lives and destroying the evil Hagatha.
For now will you be so kind as to take Hagatha’s body out of here and into the courtyard, we will have her corpse burned in the morning. It is late, and for now I wish to get some sleep, though after the scare we had I am not sure Valanice and I will sleep very much. Valancie is very tired from giving birth.” 

The newborn baby twins, who slept in matching cradles beside the royal bed, had been woken up by the commotion and were crying loudly. Valanice rose and tended to her babies, talking to them in a cooing baby voice. She picked up baby Alexander and began to rock him and sing softly to him, Graham picked up baby Rosella and did the same thing for her.

   â€œI will leave you now so you can get your rest.” Morena stopped and groaned from the pain in her cheek. She feared the scratches would get infected from the dirt in Hagatha’s fingernails.  Graham summoned Dr. Abraham again, and he rubbed antibacterial ointment on Moren’s cheek. The doctor feared the scars would be permanent.

   After Dr. Abraham had tended her, Morena stepped out into the hall, dragging Hgatha’s corpse with her. She met Sir David in the hall.

“What happened, Lady Morena?” Sir David asked her, as he met her in the hallway. Morena explained about Hagatha’s attack and how she had defeated and killed her.

“Here, let me take that disgusting witch’s body an dispose of her for you.” Sir David offered.


“Thank you, Sir David.” Morena said. “I would like to go to bed now.”

Sir David nodded and took the dead Hagatha and dragged her out into the courtyard and threw her on a heap of rubbish. She would be disposed of by burning tomorrow, and the ashes buried. Everyone was too tired to do it tonight, it would wait until morning.


While the castle slept and Hagatha’s body was investigated by vermin, flies and maggots, a wizard appeared next to the rubbish heap in a puff of smoke. The wizard was very old with wrinkled skin and long white hair and beard, and wore a black robe and pointy hat. He was Manannan, the evil brother of Hagatha. He shook his head and growled at the castle when he saw what they had done to his sister. He picked up her body in his arms and the vermin immediately fled. He examined her wounds and decided he could fix them and possibly restore his sister to life. He disappeared with her in the same way he had come.


When the guards found out that Hagatha’s body was missing, they were very upset. Could it be that the monstrous witch was somehow still alive, and would come back for revenge?  They told Morena about the hag’s disapperance, and she was very worried too. She went to speak to this with Cormac the court magician.


“I believe someone disguised as a servant drugged my drink last night so I would fall into a deep sleep.” He said. “I have no idea who this person is, but it must be related to that wicked old witch Hagatha and her plans to harm the king and queen. We must be on our guard, I think Hagatha is not our only enemy, she must have allies.”

“I agree that we must be on our guard. These enemies are evil witches and warlocks, I believe.” Morena said.


Morena talked to King Graham.  “My lord, I would like to use the magic mirror, with your permission. I would like to see if I can find out what happened to Hagatha’s body. If she is somehow still alive, no doubt she will come back for revenge, and her revenge will be terrible.”

“Yes, I think this is reasonable. You have my permission.” Graham said.

Morena went into the throne room with Graham and Valanice  watching she approached the magic mirror and spoke to it.

“Mirror of Merlin, show me what has happened to the witch Hagatha’s body.” She said.

The mirror clouded and grew dark. “I cannot see that far, it is hidden from my sight.” The mirror’s magical voice said.

Morena sighed. “Perhaps I should talk to the fairies about this. First I think I will write a letter to my granny.”


Morena had kept up contact with her grandmother in Kolyma by writing letters. She also wrote and received letters from her friends in Kolyma. The prince of Kolyma had gotten married and his wife was with child. She received a letter from Genevieve telling her that Genevieve had born her husband the prince a son. Morena wrote to her grandmother and friends and told her all about Valanice’s delivery of twins and how Hagatha had attacked and she had killed her, and her body had mysteriously disappeared.

After she wrote her letter she decided to take a walk in the woods. Her cat, Misty, went along with her. Morena picked up Misty and held her, petting the cat’s soft fluffy gray fur. Misty purred at the attention. Morena put Misty down and the cat walked beside her. She was searching for Gloriana the fairy. Morena wore her cloak, as it was still cool in early spring. The trees had fresh baby green leaves on them and the green grass sprouted up from patches of brown grass and snow. She searched for the fairy godmother that had helped out Graham on his quest to become king.

The beautiful sparkling fairy in her blue and purple dress trimmed in silver appeared in the north of the forest, her silver wings sparkled in the sunlight.

“How may I help you, my dear?” She asked Morena. Morena told her about the fight with Hagatha after Valancie had given birth.

“I know that Hagatha has two brothers, an older one and a younger one. Both are evil wizards.” Gloriana informed her.


“Maybe it was one of Hagatha’s brothers who took her body away. What are their names?” Morena asked.


“The elder brother is named Manannan. The younger one is called Mordack.” Gloriana answered.

“We must watch out for them, I fear they will try to get revenge on us.” Morena said. She fingered her wand, that she kept tucked in her belt.

“I will keep watch on King Graham and Queen Valanice.” Gloriana said. “As for right now take this bag of fairy dust. It will protect you from evil and cure wounds. Just sprinkle it on the wounds and it will cure them.”

Morena thanked the kind fairy and went back to the castle. She talked with some of the servants. They told her that King Graham and Queen Valanice planned on having the twins’ christening in the cathedral in a week.

She met Valanice in the tea parlor with the twins in a baby carriage. I found a woman willing to be the royal nanny. I have looked over her resume.   She has a baby of her own, and can take care of all of the babies at the same time. She can also act as a wet nurse.” Valanice told her. “But I will mostly watch Alexander and Rosella myself. I would like to nurse them from my own breasts.”


“That is good news. I certainly hope your children will be safe. We must do all we can to protect them.” Morena replied.

“Yes, I will make sure my children are protected.” Valanice agreed. She began to sing to her babies. Morena smiled, but it made the scratches on her cheek hurt.


“We will.” Said Valanice. “I too fear that some evil ally of Hagatha’s may harm my precious babies. I will watch over them carefully and not let that happen.”

Valancie kissed each twin on the forehead. They were sleepy and they went to sleep in their carriage.

“When they get a little older I may take them to the garden.” She said, “But I am afraid they may get sunburned. It’s a good thing their carriages have a canopy. If I do take them into the garden, I will keep them in the shade.”

Morena smiled. “You make a good mother, Valanice.”

“Thank you.” Valanice said.

The maid brought tea to them, and Morena added milk and sugar to her tea before drinking it. Valanice did the same.

They talked softly for a while, so as to not wake up the babies.

Then Morena left. She went into the armory and looked over the collection of armor. The armor for the knights varied greatly, from leather armor to long chain mail shirts and trousers to full plate armor. Knights did not wear armor all the time; it was too heavy and hot. They wore armor only when they went into battle. 

Morena went to the training yard. She practiced her archery.

As the day grew late she went inside the castle for dinner.
Olga had cooked a chicken potpie for them. Morena hungrily bit into a dinner roll after Graham said grace. She ate some bread and a slice of chicken potpie. For desert they had a cinnamon, raisin and walnut Danish covered in sugary icing.

Valanice went to nurse the twins while Morena read her spell book. King Graham went with Valanice to take care of the babies.

The infant twins grew and thrived on their mother’s milk and all of the attention they received in the healthy environment of the castle. They were pretty infants, each had lovely bright blue eyes like their parents. Toys such as silver rattles, stuffed teddy bears and dragons and a little rag doll for Rosella were given to them. They looked so cute in their baby outfits and booties, blue for Alexander and pink for Rosella.

King Graham and Queen Valanice brought the twins to Daventry’s cathedral for their christening a week after they were born. The happy royal parents asked Morena to be the infants’ godmother. Morena happily accepted. Bishop Patrick baptized the babies as the kingdom watched from the pews of the church. The whole kingdom rejoiced at the birth of the little prince and princess.

Graham also held a ceremony in the castle where Morena was knighted, the first female knight ever in Daventry, and she was officially given the title of lady and given a gold medal of honor for saving the lives of the king and queen.

[Rosedragon]

“Well, Morena, it appears that you have been knighted before me.” Rupert told her. “I must admit I am somewhat jealous. You deserve this honor for bravely defending King Graham and Queen Valanice and the little prince and princess from that fiend Hagatha.”

“I’m sure the king will knight you soon. You have been at the castle for a little over a year now, and you have come far in your training.” Morena said.


“I sure hope King Graham does see fit to knight me soon. I would like to go off on adventures as I have always dreamed.” 

“Don’t worry, your time will come.” Morena said to her old friend.


Easter came, and people celebrated by dying eggs bright colors and planting bulb flowers, such as lilies, hyacinth, daffodils, tulips and irises. Morena sighed and smelled the beautiful flowers as she looked at the lilies, tulips and daffodils Valancie had planted in the castle garden.  At church the altar was covered in a large bouquet of spring flowers in a silver bowl. Easter lilies, daffodils, red tulips, blue hyacinth, branches of apple blossoms and violets filled the silver bowl and made for a beautiful display. The choir and the parishioners sang hymns celebrating Christ’s resurrection. The incense burned at Easter mass smelled wonderful. Bishop Patrick’ sermon was joyful, about how Jesus Christ’s death on the cross and resurrection set them free from the power of death. Now the good Christians were promised eternal life in heaven with Jesus thanks to his loving gift and sacrifice. Morena gave more money than the usual tithe to the church. Since she was like a ward of the king’s, she had a small allowance from him given to her every week. Morena was a smart girl and she took care of her money and saved some, spent some of it helping others.  Morena wore a white dress trimmed in a border of pink, blue and yellow flowers and a golden belt. She wore the golden crucifix she had received for Christmas. To cover her hair which she had braided she wore a white lace scarf. Valanice wore a white dress trimmed in silver lace and pink ribbon embroidery of roses. She had a wide pink satin sash she wore with her dress and pink slippers. A lace veil with a pink ribbon border covered her head, and it was topped with a silver and diamond tiara. She also wore a silver and diamond cross.


Morena and Valancie helped out with the Easter egg hunt in the castle garden organized for the children of the kingdom. The children turned in some of their eggs for chocolate candy and jellybeans. They also received stuffed Easter bunnies to play with.

For Easter supper they had roast lamb, spinach and mustard greens, white bread, leek soup, boiled eggs and deviled eggs, fresh cheese and a coconut cake made special for the occasion. Food was given to the poor in generous amounts.

Valanice and her ladies collected apple blossoms and other spring flowers to adorn the dinner table. 


After dinner Valanice nursed the twins in private. Morena went to the castle gardens to see how the flowers were blooming that spring. The bulbs planted in autumn came up beautiful. She met Sir Collin there and had a lovely conversation with him, she watched the sunset in his arms.


The months went by quickly, and summer came. Morena joined the royals and nobles during the summer hunt. King Graham sent Rupert into the forest to slay a vicious ogre that had been causing trouble for travelers. Rupert returned successful, with the ogre’s head. As a reward, King Graham knighted him. Morena watched with happiness as her friend from Kolyma was finally made a knight, after training in Castle Daventry for a year and a half. Everyone was happy for him. She was no longer in love with Rupert, now she loved Collin.

King Graham had certain days in his court when he would hear the complaints of all people of the kingdom, and peasants often came to him with their problems.

Along with Queen Valanice he sat in his throne and judged the disputes of the citizens of Daventry.

Morena was there, sitting on the bench reserved for the lords and ladies of the court. She was trying to learn how to embroider. Lady Beatrice had drawn a pattern on a piece of linen, and she went over the lines with stitches in bright colors. Valanice could embroider very well. Morena could draw well, but embroidery was something new to her. She knew how to mend rips in clothing and her grandmother had taught her the basics of sewing. She was doing this piece of embroidery for Sir Collin, his birthday was coming up next week and she wanted it to be a present for him. Morena was not very good at sewing but for him she would try her hardest. Sometimes she laid the embroidery in her lap and looked up and paid attention to a particularly interesting case. Most of the cases were boring though. Farmers had disputes over their livestock grazing on someone else’s land, sometimes people owed money to other people and the person owed wanted the debtor to pay up. There were some cases of sick people seeking help and medicine from the king, the king ordered his doctor to tend to them. There were more serious cases, a there was a thief who stole gold from a rich man, the thief’s sentence was imprisonment in the castle dungeons for a year. A merchant’s wife accused him of adultery, he had gotten another woman pregnant and his wife was very angry and jealous. She wanted a divorce. King Graham granted their divorce, and ordered the man to pay alimony to the wife and also child support to the woman he had impregnated.

When the day ended Morena had completed her embroidery. It was the heraldic coat of arms of Daventry. She had been very careful and neat with her stitches, so it looked nice. She decided to make a pillow out of it and give it to Collin on his birthday, which was next week.

There was a small party for Sir Collin when his birthday came around. The chef made a spice cake with raisins and nuts, which was his favorite kind.  He liked Morena’s present, the small pillow looked pretty. 

   During the summer the royals enjoyed certain sports, like hunting, swimming, horse races and foot races, archery practice and knife throwing, fencing, spear throwing, soccer, tennis, and a new game called baseball, that required a bat and ball wear the player hit the ball that was thrown to them by the pitcher, then run to the bases and try to reach another base or home before the opponents could throw the ball to the players on their team that guarded the bases. Morena liked to play sports, some of the other ladies played the games well. In order to play the sports the women had to wear trousers, it was very difficult to play wearing a dress, so the ladies would wear long tunics over trousers or breeches.

Valanice enjoyed some of the sports. Hunting with hawks and hounds was popular among the nobles, but Graham and Valanice were not fond of hunting, since the primary purpose of it was to rob some poor animal of its life, and then make a meal of that animal and preserve the head and hide of it as a trophy.

It soon came time for the Midsummer celebration, which was the longest day of the year. A fair was held in the village square, and merchants came from near and far to offer their goods. Lots of delicious food, including mouth-watering sweets of all kinds was prepared for the feast, their was a cooking contest that the cooks and housewives entered. Cakes, pies, cookies, pastries, éclairs, sweetbreads, sherbets, chocolate covered fruit, roasted nuts and candy were all fixed for the fair. There were plays, music and dancing; performers competed in the contests for the best actors, best musician, best storyteller, and best dancer. There was an exhibit of arts and crafts, prizes to be one for the best painting, tapestry, sculpture, woodcarving and pottery. A joust, archery contest, wrestling match, foot and horse race, and spear and knife throwing competition were also held. There were safety rules to make sure no one was seriously hurt during the joust. That evening there was a fireworks show to celebrate. The aristocracy had been invited to the Midsummer Night ball.     
     

Morena enjoyed the lively dances. All of the knights wanted a turn dancing with her, since she had become a hero when it was known how she saved the king and queen from Hagatha. Valanice wore a blue taffeta dress trimmed in black ribbons and lace. Morena wore a pink and cream satin dress. Graham wore a white shirt, a purple jerkin and black pants with black boots. Rupert wore a green tunic and yellow trousers. Sir Collin wore a white shirt, sky blue vest and gray trousers. There was a dance where the men and women formed two separate lines, then went in between each other, with each man having a turn twirling each woman as they went down the line.  The finest of musicians played at the castle. Graham’s fairy godmother, Gloriana, came to the ball wearing a fantastic dress of pink, blue, lavender, and cream gauze trimmed in sparkly crystal beads, seed pearls and silver ribbons. She danced and waved her magic wand of silver with a golden star on top with colorful ribbons hanging from the star. When she waved her wand, sparkly bubbles, little stars, and confetti appeared.  The people cheered as the sparkly stuff rained down upon them. When it reached the floor, the bubbles, confetti and stars disappeared leaving no mess.  Gloriana also sang for the crowd in her sweet musical voice.

   Morena slept late the next day. Her day went about its usually routine she had break fast, then went into he library for some reading. She practiced fencing and archery with the knights during the afternoon.

   A few weeks later she was in the library again, she decided to read the Bible. It had been a long time since she had read the Bible on her own. Randomly flipping through the pages, she came across this passage, Deuteronomy 18:9-13

“When you enter the land the LORD your God is giving you, do not learn to imitate the detestable ways of the nations there. Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, who practices divinations or sorcery, interprets omens engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD, and because of these detestable practices the LORD your God will drive out those nations before you. You must be blameless before the LORD your God.”

   The fact that magic is forbidden by the Bible shocked Morena. Did God consider her use of magic an abomination? Would God punish her for using magic either in this life or the next? She flipped to the New Testament, and came to Revelations. She came to Revelations 22: 15:

   â€œOutside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.”  From this passage Morena got the impression that magic-users would not be allowed in heaven. She thought seriously on what she had just read.

   I do not want to go to hell. For the sake of my soul I must give up magic. The Bible says it is wrong. I must stop practicing magic and pray for forgiveness, I must also try to get Cormac to stop using magic, and pray for him.

Morena thought that she should talk to Bishop Patrick, and discuss such things. Still, she wondered why God forbids the use of magic in the Bible. Perhaps it is because magic is dangerous, and humans had the tendency to abuse power. It is extremely difficult to describe exactly what magic is, it is a strange, mysterious, mystical force. Perhaps it comes from God, since he is the creator of the universe and of all living beings. Could the miracles that Jesus, the prophets and disciples in the Bible performed have come from the force called magic? The miracles are described by being simply done from faith, there is no potion or wand or set spell required, simply pray and god will answer your prayers with either a yes or a no. If yes, then a miracle is performed and people are healed. If no, then things remain as they are, to work in God’s plan, with no one understands. Maybe the reason magic is forbidden is because it was a tool of the enemy nations who were against the Israelites, and fought against God’s people the Jews. Just like idol worship, sacrificing your children, and sleeping with prostitutes is forbidden because of it is evil.


Morena decided to go to the church and talk to Bishop Patrick. She got up and changed into a tan dress and put a white scarf over her head. Bishop Patrick would not like to see her in pants. She told a servant to inform anyone who asks about her that she had gone to the Cathedral.


When she arrived at the Cathedral of Daventry by walking, the bishop was too busy to see her. One of the other priests, Father Matthew, was available for an interview.

“What can I do to help you, my child?” He asked.


“Father Matthew, I have become upset by some passages I read in the Bible. I read in Deuteronomy that the Lord forbids the ancient Hebrews from practicing magic or divination. Also in Revelations it says that those who practice the magic arts will not get into heaven. What do you say about this? I have some talents in magic. I have used magic to help me defeat the likes of Hagatha, and other evil enchanters. Should I stop using magic because of this? Will I be punished by God or go to hell if I practice magic?”

“You must understand, everyone has a different opinion about these things.” Father Matthew began. “We must be extremely careful when dealing with issues such as the magic arts, most spells can backfire on their caster if they are not performed properly. Magic is so dangerous that it must be forbidden, but there are times when it may be necessary. There are many examples of miracles in the Bible, like when Moses parted the red sea, when Elijah raised the son of his friends from the dead, and when he summoned fire from heaven to his altar to prove the prophets of Baal wrong. Then Jesus performed miracles, he healed the sick, the lame, the blind, those with leprosy, he drove out demons that caused madness and raised the dead. Since Jesus is the Son of God, he has some of the power of God.

“Magic must be a power that comes from God, but his enemy, the rebel angel Lucifer or Satan has power also, whatever power Jehovah gives him. Satan can use people to perform his evil deeds, there are many evil witches and wizards out there ho worship Satan. Some believe in false heathen gods and goddesses and invoke them in their rituals and spells. There have been Christian writers like Tolkind and Clyde Lewis who write creative tales of magic and enchantment. Does this make them any less Christian? I don’t think so, as long as they honor Christ with their writings. There have been many moral tales written about the battle between good an evil. Now back, to your question, if it makes you feel guilty to practice magic, then stop. You should walk by faith and walk in the light of Christ’s love. Do not try to be greater than human through the magic arts.  You are mortal and will die one day and answer to the Lord for your actions. Jesus will stand as your defender on Judgment Day if you accept him as your savior and follow his commands.

“However, we live in a magical world. There are some types of magic that dwell in the land and are a part of nature. There are magical creatures, like dragons, unicorns, fairies, the merpeople and elves. They are born with natural magic and can perform it quite easily. Sometimes humans are born with magic talents, and it is difficult for them to give it up. However, these same talents can be put to use for God. We must pray and meditate and listen carefully to learn what God wants us to do in this life. There have been many saints who performed wondrous signs and miracles, greater than those done by unbelieving magicians. 

“The Bible is the true word of God. If it says magic is not to be used then obey that command. I suggest that you stop using magic and pray and expect miracles. However, Pray for Cormac, he is deep in the arcane arts, but not beyond redemption. You should talk to him and see if you can bring him to Christ. I must do my duty too, and spread the gospel in Daventry. All Christians must be good witnesses as to how the power, mercy and love of Jesus Christ changed our lives.”

“Thank you for talking with me, Father. I understand now what I must do.” Morena said.
She left the church and gathered up her magic book, wand, charms and potion ingredients and carried them to a secret place in the forest, and buried them underneath a large pine tree. In case some disaster happened, and she desperately needed magic to protect herself or to defend Daventry, she would come back here and dig them up and use them. But for now, she quit the arcane arts. She would depend on God to help her through life without magic.  She spent the rest of the day reading the Bible and thinking about what her purpose was in this life.

[Rosedragon]

The next day, Morena went to visit Cormac. She told him what she had read in the Bible and that she thought his practice of the arcane put his soul in danger.
   
“Dear girl, I have never shared this with anyone, but I have a faith totally different from yours. I am not a Christian, nor do I want to become one, I am a Pagan, a follower of the ancient gods and servant to the Great Mother Goddess. I have nothing against Christians, I do not hate them, I know there are many fine upstanding people who are kind and compassionate Christians; but I have always found the religion too intolerant for my tastes. You Christians think your beliefs are the only right ones; there is no room for other paths in your faith. You say all magic is evil, and there have been instances of persecution by Christian priests on Pagans and mages like me. I am not evil or cruel, I do not worship the Devil, I admire nature and respect her power; my gods are the gods of the earth, air, water and fire. I have never practiced evil or dark magic, nor would I ever do so. We Pagans have the rule of three, that whatever harm you do comes back upon your three times worse. Therefore, I do not put curses on people. I have a system of values and morals that may seem loose to you Christians, but I believe pleasure and beauty are a gift of the Goddess and we should take what enjoyment we can out of life, for it is very brief.
I belief the Christians deny nature, they claim the natural world is sinful; they deny their own human natures. That story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden is ridiculous to me. I think the God and Goddess are more merciful than you give them credit for. I find the God of the Bible to be harsh, cruel, unforgiving and making impossible demands on his creations, constantly tempting them to sin, punishing them when they do sin, and then blaming the adversary he created for that sin. I think it is unnecessary for your Jesus to die on the cross, what sort of father would do that to his son? And why does blood need to be shed to cover sins?  I think you are a very good, kind-hearted girl, but you have become zealous in your faith. Do not become intolerant like the hypocrites who mock your Jesus while claiming to serve him. Please do not talk to me about religion again, I do not wish to get into an argument with you.”

Morena was respect fully silent, and let him have his say.  “If that is how you, feel, I will not bring up the subject again. But I will pray for you, that you may see the light and one day be saved.”

Cormac nodded sagely. “And I will pray that my Goddess will keep you safe too. Be blessed, my dear”

“God bless you too.” Said Morena, and then she left.   


By this time it was time for dinner. Morena could not eat much, she had a lot on her mind. Valanice was on a diet to lose her baby fat. She ate only a salad and a bowl of chicken soup. She drink water.


   Morena’s birthday was in late August.  Olga fixed a sumptuous chocolate cheesecake. 

Bishop Patrick gave her a Bible bound in black leather. Father Mathew gave her a wooden icon painted with a picture of the Madonna, and Jesus as the good shepherd. Graham gave her a shirt of elven chain mail, which is better, lighter and stronger than chain mail made by humans. Queen Valanice gave her a royal blue linen tabard embroidered with the coat of arms heraldry design of Daventry, like all the guards have, so she could be a guard. The heraldic symbols of Daventry were a quartered shield with a rose, four-leaf clover, acorn and fish on it. A crown topped the shield. Two chargers, a unicorn on the left and a lion on the right stood beside the shield. Underneath was the Daventry motto, Credendo Vidis. Collin gave her a steel helmet like what the guards have. Captain Martin gave her a spear like the ones the guards carried. Rupert gave her steel gauntlets. Sir Nicholas gave her a small dagger with a gold hilt set with a ruby. Sir David gave her steel and leather boots. Sir Lucas gave her a pair of chain mail trousers also made by elves. Lady Beatrice gave her a set of silver hairpins and Lady Daphne gave her a silk scarf with a print of red roses on a cream background. Lady Madeline gave her a book of fairytales. Olga gave her a bag of saltwater taffy. Holly gave her an embroidered handkerchief. Jack gave her a ceramic dragon incense burner. Mary gave her a bottle of rosewater perfume. Lorna gave her a wooden flute. Cormac gave her a jar off facial cream supposed to get rid of acne.

Morena had a good time on her birthday. She was given flowers and the party was very merry, with a piñata and pin the horn on the unicorn game.  They also played blind man’s bluff. They sang, made music and danced at the party.


   As September came, ambassadors from Serenia came to discuss the trade agreement with Daventry. Serenia had attacked Daventry when it was weak during King Edward’s time. The current king of Serenia, King Harold, the son of King Henry, wanted peaceful trading with Daventry, and sent a letter apologizing for his father’ actions to Daventry. He sent ambassadors bearing gifts; bolts of fine cloth, salt, spices, gold, silver and crystal to King Graham. In return King Graham sent him a few diamonds from the pouch of diamonds he found during his quest to be king.

The ambassadors asked that a trusted official from Daventry return to Serenia with them to talk to King Harold about the treaty and trade agreement.  King Graham decided to send Lord Thomas his official ambassador and Morena.

Morena was excited about the trip. The time came when she packed up everything she would need and mounted her horse for the ride to Serenia. A small caravan of knights, two servants, the ambassadors from Serenia and Lord Thomas and Morena crossed the mountains and into Serenia. They were attacked by bandits while in the mountains, but were able to fight them off with little damage. The bandits fled when they saw the excellent fighting skills of the party.

   King Harold and his wife Queen Sophia welcomed them with open arms and a merry court. After they had presented themselves and the royal gifts to the king, Morena and her party went to rest. She took a brief nap, cleaned herself up and put on a dark red velvet dress for dinner. King Harold and Queen Sophia, have heard of her, the first female knight in Daventry, or anywhere for that matter. They questioned her about her escapades with Hagatha and how King Graham, Queen Valanice and the twin babies were doing. Morena told them all was well in Daventry.  The people of Serenia affectionately called Harold “Good King Harry.”   

Tomorrow Prince Leon, King Harry’s nephew, gave the visitors from Daventry a tour of the castle. They had a lovely garden like in Daventry. The day after that they went to the village and explored the forests of Serenia. The mission was a success; the trade agreement was signed and sealed. From then on there would be merchants regularly coming and going back and forth in Serenia and Daventry.  King Harold complained about the pirates who raided the shores of Serenia, causing trouble for the people living on the coast. King Harold was starting to build up his royal navy so he could capture and hang the pirates, but he was having trouble finding experienced sailors who were honest.

Morena returned to Daventry as the leaves were turning colors. The royal family went on a ride through the forest to see the beautiful autumn foliage.

   October came and the weather grew colder. Morena had a nightmare one night. She was lost in a dark maze of shadowy winding corridors and she heard the sound of a baby crying. She followed that sound and came to a dirty, untidy kitchen with a large fieplace. She heard a cat hiss and turned around. There was a gigantic black cat, the size of an ox, advancing on her with its fur raised and snarling, with eerie glowing yellow eyes and huge, long needle-sharp fangs. The cat grinned maliciously at her as it came closer, looking very grotesque. It leaped on her, then all went dark and Morena found herself stuck in a quagmire swamp.  She was up to her waist in muck, and was sinking fast. She screamed and struggled, and before she sank, a large bird of prey flew by and she grabbed its legs, it pulled her out of the swamp and carried her in the sky to a new land. She landed in a beautiful, strange island floating in the clouds, covered in flowers, green grass and blue and violet rock. She saw a harp with a large crystal ball attched to one pillar, and heard birds singing. She looked up and saw in the distance a magnificent city, elegant towers, spires and bridges rising up out of the violet rock.

Then she woke up. Morena was sweating and breathing hard when she awoke from her dream. She noticed her cat, Misty, lay curled up on her feet. After waiting a few minutes and lying awake in the dark she went back to sleep. This time she dreamt she was in the fairy garden again. She was having tea with Titania, the lovely green-skinned queen of the fairies. Suddenly a shout was heard. “Our son, our son… ,” The golden haired king of the fairies, Oberon, ran into the garden crying, shouting and waving his arms frantically. “Our son! He’s gone!” He wailed in despair. Titania gasped and dropped her teacup, but it did not break. “No! What has happened to our Edgar, my baby?!” She cried. Then the seen changed. Morena saw a pretty girl with long blonde braids wearing a red peasant dress in a horrible dungeon with skeletons chained to the wall. The girl looked frightened but remained calm and did not panic. Then she saw a beautiful fairy lying still and motionless on a seashell bed. The fairy’s face was pale and drawn, she did not move. Her golden hair was spread out on he pillow. Tiny fairies fluttered worriedly beside her.  The scene changed again and she saw a beach with a ramshackle house built out of the hull of a wrecked ship. An old man whose head was covered with thick white hair and a long white beard that reached to his feet came out of the house. He whistled, and a pretty blond mermaid in a seashell bra with a sparkling green tail rose from the water of the sea. He waved to her and made hand signals. She responded by throwing a large, wriggling fish to him, and the old man took the fish inside. He cooked the fish over his stove and ate it for supper. Morena woke up, and this time it was morning. Misty went up to her and got in her face to wake her up. Morena petted the gray and white cat.   

Morena talked about her dreams with her friends at breakfast that morning. They ate some scrumptious cinnamon buns baked by the cooks.

“I’ve had nightmares about evil wizards and monsters kidnapping Alexander and Rosella.” Valanice said. “They are just dreams, I do not think they will come true.”

“I certainly hope not.” Morena replied. She washed her sticky fingers in a little bowl of water on the table for that purpose and then wiped them with a napkin. She finished her tea.  “Those buns were delicious.” Valanice had split a cinnamon bun into fourths and shared it with the other ladies at the table who were watching their weight.

“I must go for a run in the forest to burn off the fat.” Morena says. “Of course, I’ll have to let the food settle in my stomach first. Valanice, you look wonderful, I can tell you have lost some of the weight from your pregnancy.”

“Thank you, Morena. I have a weakness for sweets, but lately I have been avoiding desserts. Olga’s meals are marvelous; she is such a good cook. I thought I would treat myself with at least part of the buns.” 
 
Morena went for a run around the forest and village. When she came back she practiced her combat skills with the knights.

Halloween was just around the corner, and Morena decided to dress up as an angel.  She had a pair of white feathery wings made that were attached at the shoulders and waist. She wore a white robe trimmed in gold braid with a gold cord around the waist. For her halo she wore a gold circlet. 

Graham and Valanice decided to go as Ceres and Attis, Lady of the Forest and Lord of the hunt.

   Morena enjoyed the Halloween ball, she ate caramel apples and had some pumpkin bread and had some candy like chocolates, licorice, lemon drops, caramels, mints, strawberry, watermelon and sour apple hard candies, crystallized ginger, and taffy. There were honey roasted nuts, pumpkin pie, pumpkin bread and pumpkin cookies, sugar cookies shaped like ghosts, bats, spiders, skulls, and witches, apple turnovers, chocolate cookies and a cake shaped like a tombstone, with little sugar ghosts, bats, and autumn leaves. Morena supervised the children’s party and she advised them not to eat too much sweets or they would get sick. She had fun playing games with the children of Daventry. She took the children trick-or-treating, some of their parents came along.

The snow started falling in Novemember, and it was time to wear warm clothes and play in the snow. Men were hired to clear the streets of snow. Morena got into a snowball fight with Collin, Rupert and the other knights. She also built a snowman in the meadow with the village children.


The autumn harvest feast was joyful. Nobody in the kingdom went hungry in these days. The beggars were given free meals in the tavern, provided for by the king. The music at the feast was delightful, King Graham, played his violin after the dinner was over, Valanice sang for the guests, and Morena played her flute. Taren the bard told many wondrous tales through song.

That winter soon became very harsh. Blizzards raged, it was too cold to go outside. Finally the snowstorm ceased. The people found the doors to their house blocked by snow, and they had to dig themselves out. A few people died, like the old ones and the little children. Many of the peasants had piles of wood and peat they kept to keep their fires burning. It was very dangerous to let the fires go out, you could freeze to death.

Despite the frigid weather and snow, the good citizens of Daventry were able to celebrate a merry Christmas. The annual Christmas Eve ball at the castle went by without any complications. Morena wore a red satin dress, and Valanice wore green silk.

Morena received interesting Christmas gifts, she got a leather knapsack from King Graham, a red wool cloak from Valanice, Cormac gave her some jasmine-scented incense sticks, Rupert gave her leather gloves, Collin gave her a gold heart-shaped locket with portraits of her and him inside, from Captain Martin she received a slingshot with five large rocks to go with it, from Sir Nicholas she got a sword belt with sheaths for her rapier and daggers. Sir Gareth gave her a leather bound journal with a lock. Sir Lucas gave her a quill and bottle of ink for writing. Humphrey gave her a crystal pendant. Lord Geoffrey gave her a black velvet bodice in her size for wearing with her blouses and skirts. Lord Thomas gave her an amber necklace. Lady Beatrice gave her a lovely white silk blouse trimmed in lace and the collar and cuffs. Lady Daphne gave her a red skirt to wear with the blouse and bodice.  Lady Madeline gave her some fine stationary for writing her letters on. Lady Isabel gave her an amethyst and silver brooch. Emma gave her a pair of silk stockings. Mary gave her a set of colorful ribbons for her hair. Lorna gave her a basket for gathering berries in. Holly gave her a little sewing kit. Susan gave her a carved wooden angel. Olga gave her a box of caramel pecans.

Morena gave her friends nice Christmas gifts as well. That Christmas and New Year was even more pleasant with Graham and Valanice’s babies. Alexander and Rosella were dressed in red and green Christmas outfits, had knitted hats on their head and booties on their feet to keep them warm. They were wrapped up in warm soft blankets as well.

Morena began to get bored with court life, and she longed to go out and have adventures. Later on, during her wandering years, she would look back at her days at the court of Daventry as her happiest memories of life.

[Rosedragon]

After New Years came Valentine’s Day, Morena was officially a couple with Collin. They discussed leaving Daventry together and going on adventures in foreign lands, but Morena said she would hate to leave Graham and Valanice; she would like to wait until the twins were older.

In March, Daventry received a mysterious visitor. Rumors of a foreign wizard coming to the village and staying at the inn, and entertaining the people with marvelous magic tricks were heard in the castle. The wizard came to Castle Daventry and introduced himself to the guards. He said his name was Madoc, and he had heard of the greatness of Daventry’s king, and had come to see for himself how Daventry was doing while King Graham reigned. Madoc said he came from the little island nation of Thanmark.

   The guards let him into the castle, and because King Graham was not busy at the moment, he met him in the throne room. Madoc wore indigo robes with silver stars on them. His skin was pale and wrinkled with old age; he had a long white beard and wore a matching pointed indigo hat.

   Madoc bowed low before the thrones of the king and queen. “Your majesties, I have heard the story of the brave and heroic King Graham, and how you recovered the missing magical treasures of Daventry and were made king by the previous monarch of Daventry, King Edward the benevolent. I also heard how you journeyed to the land of Kolyma to rescue the Lady Valanice and made her your queen. I have heard of how Daventry has prospered and flourished under your reign. I came to see this land of Daventry for myself to see if things are the way I heard they were. I did not come empty handed, I come bearing gifts.” Madoc pulled a bouquet of beautiful flowers out of his sleeve and handed it to Valanice.

   â€œOh my, how lovely!” Valanice said as she took the flowers and smelled them.

Next Madoc took a finely crafted little porcelain figurine shaped like a white Pegasus with Graham riding on his back. Graham was delighted to see a figure of himself. Madoc wound a little silver key at the base and Graham’s favorite tune, ode to joy, began to play.

Madoc also presented Valanice with a blue crystal bird sitting on a white and clear crystal lily. The bird also played music.   

“Thank you for these wonderful gifts, Master Madoc.” Graham said. “You shall be the guest of honor at dinner tonight.” 

That night they had roasted chicken for dinner, along with a salad, bread, steamed broccoli, carrots, green beans, and cauliflower, and a lemon meringue pie for desert. 

Madoc entertained them with clever magic tricks. He made a serving girl disappear by throwing a black cloak over her, then removing it, leaving her vanished into thin air. He brought the serving girl back as well. He took out a long colorful scarf from his sleeve and changed it into a flock of white doves that flew out the window. The most amazing trick was when he took a flame from the fireplace and shaped it into a fiery rose, then into a dragon shape that flew above the diners, causing some screams and startling them. The roaring, flying fiery dragon then burst into a thousand little fairies that sang and danced before disappearing into smoke. Everyone applauded loudly after the end of the show.

The next day, Morena studied her Bible and prayed in the morning. After breakfast she went out to train with the knights. She went into the armory and helped the servants clean and polish armor. Then she went to the library. She read a book on the animals and creatures of the forest, and found a chapter on goblins. Goblins were last seen in Daventry after King Edward lost the shield of Achilles and could no longer protect Daventry with magical invincibility. The goblins raided the villages and towns, and attacked any traveler that went through the forest. As a knight, Graham went out and fought the goblins, and after the beating he gave them they rarely showed their heads out of their underground mountain fortress. Morena read about unicorns, dragons, elves, fairies, leprechauns, gnomes, dwarves, giants, Cyclops, the Minotaur, harpies, mermaids, centaurs, satyrs, nagas, werewolves, werebears, werecats, vampires, trolls, ogres, rocs, the Phoenix, the winged ones, the pooka, kelpies, selkies, swan maidens, hippocampus, giant serpents, sea serpents, Medusa, ghosts, ghouls, zombies, skeletons, spriggots, weirdlings, hillmen, monsterous man-eating plants, dryads, naiads, slime creatures, bat mantras, fire ants, rock demons, fire demons, fire dwarves, snow nymphs, gryphs, ice orcs, water snakes, shadow demons, and hags. It was interesting to find out about all of the different, unique, special and sometimes dangerous magical and non-human creatures that lived in the world of Serenia. Morena decided to finish the book tomorrow.

Lady Madeleine the librarian said Valanice was in the solarium. Morena went to the solarium and found the castle’s ladies engaged in spinning, weaving, sewing or knitting. Misty the cat followed her around. Lady Catherine was weaving a wool cloth. Lady Isabel was spinning some flax. Lady Daphne was sewing a purple cloak. Lady Beatrice was helping Valanice with knitting baby clothes. Taren the bard was there to entertain the ladies, he sang the story of King Arthur pulling the sword out of the stone, and how he united the warring tribes of Ancient Britain and courted and later married, the fair Lady Guinevere. The solarium was a room in a tower with several glass windows that allowed the sun’s light to warm the place, but kept out the cold air. 

“Hello, Valanice.” Morena greeted her.

“Oh, hello Morena.” Valanice replied. “I am knitting coats and hats for my babies.

“It looks nice.” Morena said when she saw Valanice’s knitting.

“Well, I don’t feel like doing any sewing today, so I will just watch as you and your ladies sew.” Morena said. She sat down in an empty chair and listened to Taren’s song about King Arthur.


Morena talked with the women of the castle for a while.  She grew bored, and decided to leave. She took Misty back to her room so the cat could have a nap. Then Morena went to the kennels to see how the royal hounds were doing. She checked on the hawks at the falconry. Sometimes the aristocrats used hounds and hawks in hunting. Hunting with falcons was very popular these days.  Morena wanted to go out to the gardens, but there wasn’t much to see with it being winter and all. There was plenty of preserved food in the storehouses. Morena decided to practice playing the harp and flute. Soon it was time for dinner.

They had roast pheasant with a salad, bread, vegetable soup and a mincemeat pie. Madoc said he enjoyed the dinner. This time his tricks included making a serving girl disappear before their eyes, and reappear again. He had a guard bind him tightly with chains and shackles from the dungeons, then teleported out of the chains, leaving them lying empty on the floor as he reappeared in another part of the room. Madoc turned a dog into a swan, then back into a dog, then into a grasshopper, then back to a dog. He made the bread levitate into the air and fly around the table, then put it back on its plate. He made the candles dance into the air too, and extinguished their flames, then put them back in their holders and relit them. He pulled coins out of the diner’s ears, and then turned the coins into bubbles that floated and danced around the room. For his last trick he made stars in all of the different constellations appear on the darkened dining room’s ceiling.

Madoc the magician stayed with them for about a month. He was always polite and charming, but Morena sensed there was something underneath the surface, some terrible boiling temper or evil, some thing deep that Madoc hid from them. She once bumped into him in the hall, and Madoc had looked down at her with narrowed black eyes both cold and burning with malice, and said, “Get out of my way.” Gulping under the furry of his gaze, she stepped back and he passed her quickly. Morena then knew for certain that he hated her, but she did not know why. She had just recently met the man, what did she ever do to him that made him look upon her with such hatred?

Morena knew she had to tell someone about her suspicions of Madoc, but the king and queen were very busy and so were most of the knights. She stayed up late one night and talked to Collin while he was on guard duty.

“Why do you think he would hate you? He barely even knows you. So far we have seen nothing from Madoc to suggest that he would be up to mischief. However, since I see you are so worried, I will try to keep and extra careful eye on the man. Evil wizards have caused plenty of harm to Daventry in the past, and we should be careful with trusting magic users.

A few days later, as March was coming, Morena went out into the cold garden to see the bare trees and the evergreen and holly trees planted during the winter. Light snow was falling, she caught some snowflakes on her eyelashes. She wore her red wool cloak with a hood. She heard a humming noise, and saw Cormac, Daventry’s wizard sitting on a bench feeding some birds.

“Good morning Cormac. How are you?”

“It would be a better morning if my mind were not bogged down with worries.” The old man said, sighing.

“What are you worried about?”

“That wizard calling himself Madoc. I do not know why, but I think there is something….unwholesome about him.”

“You feel it too? I have been worried that he may not be who he says he is, that he means us harm.”

“I have no proof, and nothing I can put my finger on, but my instincts tell me there is something wrong about him.” Cormac said. “And my instincts are usually right. I fear he may try to harm the king or queen, or their babies. But I feel it in my bones that King Graham or Queen Valanice will not listen to us if we try to warn them about him, they have fallen under his spell.”

“What should we do?” Morena asked him.

“Nothing for now, but be wary. Watch and wait to see what he will do. If he attempts any evil, we must stop him!”

Morena nodded. “I will do that. I must go into the forest and find Gloriana the fairy; perhaps she can help us.”   

Later that day Morena saddled a horse from the stables and road into the forest. The snow had stopped. She found the little wood elf, Leithanor, and he led her to Gloriana. She was in the oak grove with stone dolmens that had been sacred to the pagans.

Gloriana was also in the act of feeding winter birds. She told the kind and beautiful human-sized fairy her problems. 

“I fear this Madoc, who ever he is. I am afraid he means to harm our king and queen, and their little ones.”

“Perhaps I should send some of my forest creatures to spy on him and determine what his true purposes are for visiting Daventry.” Gloriana said.

“Sounds like a good idea, but just be careful that he does not catch you spying on him.”

Gloriana smiled. “My birds and squirrels can be very inconspicuous. Most people rarely notice them. I use the animals and sometimes the elves and gnomes of the forest to spy on anyone who I believe is important or who may hold a threat to the forest or the kingdom. Leithanor, you must keep a close eye on our friend Morena, and see that no harm comes to her. Also watch out for any trouble Madoc may bring us.”

“Yes, my lady.” The little blond wood elf in fairy-spun silk clothes replied.

“I must now return to the castle. I have one more question before I leave. Do you think spring will come early this year, like it did last year?”

“Yes, I think we will have an early spring. Already the sun is warming up, and the snow is softening and melting. March will not be as cold as it usually is.”

Morena thanked her and rode back to the castle.

Steak was cooked for dinner that night. There was potatoes, bread and leek soup to go with it. The dessert was custard. Morena could not eat much, as her mind was full of worries. 

     March came and soon it would be time for the royal twins’ first birthday. Valanice had weaned them successfully, now they had food like applesauce, soft peas, squash, soft cooked carrots, mashed potatoes, corn and bread soaked in water or milk.

They were also starting to grow fine wisps of hair. Rosella’s hair was flaxen blond, Alexander’s was raven black.

The babies seemed to be afraid of Madoc. When the wizard got close to them, they would burst out crying. Valanice thought it was because he was a stranger.

[Rosedragon]

Morena’s fearful suspicions of malice from Madoc came true the night before the twin’s first birthday. She was woken up from her sleep by nightmares. She dreamt that Madoc had snatched baby Alexander from his crib, and was laughing as he fled with him from the castle. She heard a loud voice say in her dreams, “Wake up, Morena, Madoc is really Manannan, he plans to kidnap Alexander!” The voice belonged to Gloriana the fairy. Morena bolted up from her pillow, awake and gasping. She looked around and noticed a tapping at her window. She opened the window and Leithanor the elf, who had climbed the tree outside her window, jumped into the room.

“Gloriana did some checking around with her magic friends in other realms, and she found out that Madoc fits the description of the evil wizard Manannan, Hagatha’s older brother, and he kidnaps baby boys and raises them as his slaves, and kills them when they turn eighteen. We believe he is planning to kidnap little Alexander.”

“Go wake the guards, and then go to the nursery and see if the babies are all right.” Morena told him. Morena got dressed and put on her chain mail armor and took up her sword and shield. She grabbed the bag of fairy dust Gloriana had given her. She ran out of the room and to Graham and Valanice’s bed room. A horrible creature, a fierce gargoyle, sculpted from stone and brought alive by dark sorcery, growled and blocked the door that led to the king and queen’s bedroom. The gargoyle  resembled a huge bulldog with curly horns and bat wings. He pounced on Morena. Morena brought her sword up, and it scratched the beast’s belly, but the monster’s skin was hard as stone. The gargoyle knocked her down and was on top of her trying to tear her throat with its razor sharp fangs. She pushed against the beast, trying to throw it off but it was too heavy and strong. Before the gargoyle could hurt her, Morena slipped her hand in her pocket and brought out the fairy dust Gloriana gave her.

“Be an earthworm!” She yelled, and the magic dust immediately changed the fierce stone-skinned bulldog-like, bat-winged and horned gargoyle into a harmless little earthworm. Morena got to her feet and swung open the king and queen’s door.

Graham and Valanice lay on their bed perfectly still and not making a sound. Morena felt Valanice’s pulse, it was weak but she was alive. She tried to wake them, yelling at them and shaking them, but they would not move or wake up. They must be under some sort of spell. Leithanor the elf arrived and sprinkled fairy dust on them and said some magic words only the fey can pronounce, and slowly they began to wake up.

“Oooohhh, my head hurts, it feels like a drum that’s been beat too much.” Graham said. Valanice groaned and asked. “What happened? I feel like I’ve just woken from the dead.

“Graham, Valanice, your children are in serious danger. Madoc is really Hagatha’s brother Manannan, and he intends to kidnap your son.”

“What are we waiting for, let’s go to the nursery!” Graham tried to rung but collapsed on the floor. Valanice screamed and then fell down too. Morena helped Graham get to his feet. “Whatever sort of spell Mannanan put on you, it has made you weak and disoriented, let me help you.”

Sir Rupert burst into the room. “Sire are you alright?”

“I will be as soon as I see that my children are safe.” Rupert said he had the night watch and someone had tried to slip a sleeping potion into his drink, but he had a unicorn hair amulet with him, and it revealed the drink was drugged. Then he found dark shadowy monsters and all sorts of ferocious vile things in the castle, and had been fighting them, while most of the other guards were asleep. Morena helped Valanice get up and put her arm over her shoulders and supported her while Rupert did the same for Graham. They led the king and queen to the nursery. Leithanor the elf ran to them and said,

“There are wraiths, dark shadowy spirits, blocking the hall to the nursery. You will need to use magic to defeat them.” 

Fortunately Morena remembered the spell to destroy wraiths. When the incorporeal shadowy monsters with their many howling mouths and teeth and tentacles
Came upon them, Morena said the spell and vanished.

She found the door to the nursery locked, and cast a spell to open doors. Morena found Manannan/Madoc sanding there in a hooded black robe. A large green serpent was there with him, its coils filling up the room.

Manannan laughed wickedly and picked up Alexander from his crib, who cried loudly and twisted and turned in the wizard’s arms.

“You are too late to stop me! And I leave my dear pet here to destroy you all after I go. She is quite poisonous, and her coils are strong as death. Farewell, you pitiful fools!”
And then to Alexander, he said, “You and I are going to have a good time little brat. You’ll be ok, so long as you do everything I say and never make me angry.” Then he disappeared.

Morena had rushed into the room to stop Manannan from leaving, but the humongous snake raised her ugly head and hissed at her, showing needle sharp fangs dripping with poison. She valiantly raised her sword to strike off her head, but the serpent ducked own and bit her leg, it’s fangs going through layers of steel chain mail armor and clothing. Morena screamed and this time struck more quickly with her sword. She pierced the scales on the snake’s underside. But the serpent was not done yet. Rupert ran in and salshed at the serpent with his own sword.  He managed to cut the snake’s coils deeply. Then Leithanor cast a spell that caused thorny vines to grow from the castle walls and floor and wrap themselves around the huge green snake, binding her and holding her down and pricking her with their sharp thorns. Moena acted quickly and cut off the serpent’s head while it was held down with the vines.

Then she promptly fainted. Gloriana and Florinda arrived, bearing with them potions to cure the king and queen from the weakness and illness that Manannan cast upon them.

“We can take Morena to the fairy kingdom of Etheria, where Ambrosia grows. Ambrosia is the only thing that can cure that type of venom that the snake poisoned her with.”

“Please, do whatever you can to save her, noble fairies. She has bravely saved my life and the life of my queen more than once.” Graham said.

“We will leave now, we must hurry.” Gloriana and Florinda teleported her to Etheria.


Morena woke up in the bright, colorful, flowery garden of Titania and Oberon, the rulers of Etheria. 

“What happened?” She asked. “Have I died and gone to heaven?”  She heard a woman’s gentle laughter. “Close enough. You are in my garden in Etheria, the land of the fairies. “I am Titania, the queen of the fairies. This is my husband, Oberon, the king of the fairies.”

Morena looked around and saw that she lay upon a white pavilion in a garden filled with the most beautiful and fragrant of flowers.  She lay upon purple velvet cushions and pillows. She turned her head and saw a tall, slender, green-skinnd woman with exotic beauty sitting next to her. The woman had midnight black hair pulled back in a bun, she wore a gold tiara, gold earrings and necklace. Her sleeveless white silk robe was in the Greek style, and she wore a pink silk shawl and sash. A tall and muscular man with a golden tan and golden blond hair, also wearing a Greek-style robe caught up at the shoulder by a gold brooch, with a purple cloak over it, carrying a golden staff stood next to her.

“In the battle at castle Daventry you succeeded in killing the serpent, but unfortunately were poisoned by it. The fairies Gloriana and Florinda brought you here so you could be cured. However, the villain Manannan escaped with King Graham’s infant son. We have no idea where he may be right now.”

Morena tried to rise. “I must find baby Alexander and return him to his parents.” She stopped as a fit of coughing came over her.

“Take it easy.” Titania said, pushing her back down gently. “You are not well. You must rest. Few people survive the bite of a serpent like that. If you are tos urvive you must rest and recover your strength, for several days. I have heard that the king and queen of Daventry are also recovering from the spell that vile Manannan put on them. I will not let you leave Etheria until you have recovered to your full health.”

Morena sighed. In the shape she was in she would not be doing any more adventuring. However, she vowed that as soon as she was able to go, she must find Alexander. Who knew what terrible things a monster like Manannan had in store for the poor child? She feared that Manannan might kill him. No once with a conscience could leave a baby in the hands of a devil like Manannan.

Morena looked around her with wonder and delight. This Etheria was fantastic! Once she was feeling better she would like to explore this magnificently beautiful, heavenly land. Who knew what adventures might lie in wait for her in this new realm? Right now, she must rest and stay still, and the thought of having to stay still for many days or even weeks, seemed like agony for the strong adventurous woman. Titania and Oberon brought her books and scrolls from the palace library to read, and little dragoenttes, the sea horse like tiny fairies came to visit her, as did many of the other fairies of the kingdom. Morena grew to love Etheria, but still, the thought of Graham and Valanice’s precious son Alexander living with the cruel, depraved, powerful and loathsome sorcerer as his slave remained in her head night and day, and she knew she must hurry and rescue him. As soon as she could, she would leave this place and seek the missing little prince, and if Mananan had harmed one hair on his sweet little head she would make him pay for it dearly…



               THE END (For Now!)
   

[Deloria]

Whew. Just finished it. Nice thouch with the ending.

[Rosedragon]

Thanks, it warms my heart that you like it. I plan on working on Chapter 4 soon.

[Rosedragon]

I have recently updated my library section of my website. I ran spellcheck and grammar check on my stories, now the errors in them is fixed. I also enlarged the letter type, so now the stories are easier to read. Pleaee read them. Here is a link to my library:

http://www.geocities.com/gwenella410/library.html