A Story in 26 parts - V

Very slowly Albert looked towards the hooded creature
“Who ARE you?  Where did you come from? Why do I .. ow! That hurts!”
“Careful – those darts are dangerous” replied the hooded man

“But why are they hovering like that – why haven’t they embedded into us” said Albert

“CONTROLLUS DESCENDUM”  Merlin’s voice commanded the Hall – and then quickly added “everyone, cover yourselves!”  The arrows then fell slowly to the floor like wooden snowflakes.

Merlin stood up.  “Albert – meet the Optavo guardians.  When I released Troy from the control of the Optavo, the Optavo automatically called for the souls of the bodies that it has claimed in the past.  The guardian with whom you are talking to … is Arthur and Troy’s father!”

Troy snuffled on the ground, then rolled to a sitting position.  “Father? Where?”
Merlin responded slowly “Troy – this is your father, Uther. Like you he too fell under the spell of the Optavo – when you descended to that dark place the Optavo found you and made its soul connection to you. I broke that link so you are no longer in its powers.  I believe that Sparta still holds the Pandora Box, which will contain the evil within the Optavo.  But Sparta must move quickly – with the guardians here now I know that the Optavo will call to them.”

“But can’t we stop them?” asked Troy

“Yes” said Arthur – and he turned towards the guardian “Father – who is the leader of this group?”

The Guardian drew back his hood.  The black shapes swirled into a vague, whispy head – but this was no solid thing “My son – you have grown; you and Troy.  I remember when I had to leave you in foster care with Merlin – who has taught you well in so many things; Merlin – you have my thanks. You ask me who the leader is; I kneel before you as that soul”

Arthur stroked his blue face. “I thought that would be the case, Guardian…” quickly and without warning Arthur swung the sword – not downwards but up, raising Albion above his head, but slicing through the Guardian as he did so.  The Guardian’s mists swirled before dispersing to the air.  The whispered cries could be heard as the other guardians also misted and disappeared

“Arthur – that was father – what have you done?!” cried Troy He stood with his hand on his sword again.  Merlin stepped between them.

“Stop Troy – Arthur just did as he was asked.  When you were boys I knew of the Optavo and knew that you – Troy – would become enchanted by the Optavo.  I also knew that your sword, Albion, would be your soul protector.  But if you were to fall to the Optavo you would not be able to protect your soul – so you needed a guardian… and the best person would be Arthur.  So we arranged the competition – and arranged that you would lose your sword to Arthur.  If Arthur had not had the sword at that point and taken your fathers soul you would have become a Guardian yourself – and would have become the leader; your knowledge would be far greater than that of your father.  It was only by chance that I managed to stop the arrow heads from hitting anyone – or they too would have become soul guardians…”

“… in that case, we may have a problem Merlin”  Everyone turned to see Bernice, stood there. “I seem to have not ducked in time – and look… “ she looked down as everyone else did, to see a single arrow embedded in her leg. 

“Merlin, do I have much time left?”

A Story in 26 Parts - U

Until that moment Janitor was sitting at the back, listening to the conversation between Troy and Merlin – remembering the same conversation that Merlin had already had with Troy’s father.  Janitor was just starting to think that last time a Spartanite appeared when suddenly there was that crash…

The Spartanite got off the back of the dragon.
“Thank you Ernisto – your village is once again yours as agreed”
“Much obliged” replied Ernisto “but try and cross me and the might of Merlin, the Aquanauts and any other friends you may call upon will not protect you”

And with that Ernisto unfurled his wings and flew away.

The Spartanite strode towards Troy.  “You – Elf king.  You have something that was taken from our lands many, many years ago.  You don’t now how to control it, or what it can really do.  I note that Merlin has once again visited to try and remove it – I suspect for his own ends. Now give me back my Optavo”

Troy laughed hard and loud “Who are you – what are you doing in MY kingdom and making demands.of MY time and MY devices?”

The Spartanite replied “My name is Sparta.  I spoke to the previous Elf king, and to your father before that, and to his father about the Optavo… yes Troy, I know who you are and your blood line, even if you don’t.  I see the confusion in your eyes…”

Troy stood.  “I’ve told Merlin and I’ve told you.  You cannot have the Optavo.  It is mine, and I will die before anyone takes it from me”

Sparta looked at Merlin.  “He’s looked at the Optavo.  It now controls him – like it controlled the last one.  This is why we had to kill the last one”

“… but I thought I’d killed the Elf King?!”  cried Albert as he walked through the doors of the Great Hall.
“Troy? Is that you?” Said Arthur.

“STAND BACK ARTHUR.  YOU STOLE ALBION FROM ME – YOU ARE JUST A THIEF. YOU HAVE COME FOR THE OPTAVO AS WELL – LIKE THIS THING HERE”

Troy drew his sword.  Sparta drew his sword – and on instinct Arthur drew his.  Albert just stood there.  He looked at Janitor (who looked back) and they drew their swords also.

Merlin stood in the centre between them all.

“Gentlemen – please put down your swords.  I don’t like sword fighting unless necessary – and right now it isn’t.  Troy – show willing, put yours down first.”  Slowly, the swords were lowered and sheathed again.  Merlin turned to Troy.

“There is a test I need to subject you to.  Answer me this riddle…. The sun should stand over the left, right or Third Stone for the Solar Equinox?”

Troy stood still.  Albert, Arthur, Janitor all looked at each other – what stone?

Troy’s eyes glassed over.  He spoke – but in a more whispy voice…. “the sun will not stand over the stone.  The sun will shine though the eye stone and cast it’s beam onto the Heel sto…”
Quick as a flash Merlin drew his golden sickle – and with a slice made a cut motion above Troy’s head.  Troy fell to the ground.  Janitor rushed to Troy’s side “Merlin – what have you done?”

Merlin replied  “I have cut the link between Troy and the Optavo.  He is now able to rationally give it up to whomever.  Sparta – why do you need it – what will you do with it?”
Sparta replied “My people have looked after the Optavo for centuries until a dragon stole it from our kingdom.  Adventurers stole it from him, and in turn it was passed from person to person – typically through the death of the owner.  We would want to secure it again to protect the kingdoms from this device.  It would be stored in the Pandora Box.”

Merlin stroked his beard.  “Janitor – whilst Troy rests, get the Optavo.  Put it in your helmet and bring it to Sparta.  Do not, whatever you do, look directly into the centre eye of the Optavo.  Whilst I could protect Troy I doubt I could protect you.” Janitor nodded. Merlin continued “Sparta, go with Janitor.  I trust that you will only take your Optavo – nothing else. Once you have that, take one of the horses and return to your lands.”

Sparta turned to ensure that all could hear.  “Merlin and everyone in this Great Hall.  When you first met us we had the Elf Kingdom in our control.  This was because of the Optavo – it had taken control of the kingdom and we needed to get it back.  Because of the control that it had taken we had needed to bring the Aquanauts with us.  That pact has now completed and the Aquanauts have returned to their kingdoms.  Once the Optavo is in my hands you have my word – as ruler of the Spartanites – that we will not attack again over this matter.  I recognise the sovreignity of the Elf Kingdom as not being under Spartanite control.  I wish you all gods speed.”

And with that Janitor and Sparta left the hall.

Arthur looked at his brother.  Troy looked so calm, so peaceful.  Would he remember the past – would he remember Albion?

Sparta.  Image by Joshua

A Story in 26 parts - T

The Warrior stood with his back to the door, staring out from the castle walls.  There was a polite knock and a much smaller man entered.
“Troy– I have been looking everywhere for you.  It is time.  Let us go now”

Troy turned from window and reached for the thick belt, holding the broadsword.
“You won’t need that”

“You said that last time – remember?”  He continued to reach for the belt.
“But that was last time; you really need to move on from that”
“Merlin said he would come again – two hundred and twenty moon cycles would pass – and he would come again.  See – the moon is past for that time.” The belt, now fastened, hung from his waist.  Troy’s size was such that the broadsword looked like a normal sword against his leg.  Troy then reached for his helmet – it glistened in the sunlight

”Oh now come on – you don’t need that!  I’m not wearing mine!”
“Well, dear friend, it’s a good job that I’m looking out for you then!  Okay, you carry it for me” and with that Troy threw the metal helmet at his butler.  The small man caught it, but stumbled back against the wall.  Troy laughed heartily, before once again regaining a stony face.
“Now lets see what they want “
- - -

The Great Hall was fairly busy, with people bustling around clearing away the remnants of a hearty feast

“TROY!! GOOD OF YOU TO COME!  JOIN ME FRIEND”  The voice shouted across the length of the hall from the wooden throne at the end.
Troy walked steadily along the side of the hall – his eyes darting from one servant to another.  He’d been in traps that looked like this before – and knew that he would need his wits about him when he got halfway as he’d have to fight his way out – for himself and Janitor.  Janitor had stood by him for many seasons and had provided the clever words when the only way out seemed to be a fight.

But no one looked at Troy for long before returning to their own duties and he quickly covered the length of the Hall.
“You have a job for me.”  Troy’s words were measured and straight to the point.
“Yes – you are to be the new Elf King.  I have returned the kingdom to how it should be – but without a King this kingdom will fail.  My Rune Stones tell me that you should be the King at this time – so congratulations, the job’s yours”
“But Merlin, I’m not a king!  I’m a warrior – I’m not patient and calm, like… like Janitor!  He is clever with words and numbers – he can deal with advisers and other clever people!”
“Troy – you are right; Janitor would be the ideal person when words are needed. But you are practical and down to earth; your decisions are swift and just.  Janitor can be your aide – and temper those times when your quick wits need to be dulled”

“Okay – I’ll do it.  Janitor will be my aide, not my second I’ll not have that, but I do have one question – what about Arthur?  It’s been two hundred and twenty cycles now….”
“Yes Troy, Arthur is approaching this castle.  I am fully aware of your history – both your side and Arthur’s.  However, I think as brothers you need to meet – you need to settle your feud.  My Rune Stones show that you will meet and that the matter will be ended finally….”

With that Merlin stood up – and passed the Elf crown to Troy.  Troy held it in his giant hands.
“This will not fit – Janitor, store this crown safely to respect the head that once wore this crown.  My head will only be covered with my Helmet, the one that has protected me for years.  Should we need to fight I will wear my helmet, not a crown – but I can lead from the front and the Elvin people will know me.  But I hope that we will not need to fight again.  Now, let me try this throne for size – janitor, we need to arrange a feast with all the senior Elvin people… we’re going to need many bottles of mead….”

Troy sat down in the chair.  It was hard, but comfortable.  As he looked down the Hall he couldn’t help but think back to when he was learning his craft from Merlin with his brother…  Merlin saw Troy’s eyes drift and quickly and quietly withdrew from the Kingdom…

(For Troy’s background, read the comments…Frog)

(With thanks to Joshua for the inspiration for Troy, below)

A Story in 26 parts - S

“Supper?” Asked Albert “No thanks!”

“You sure? We’re actually quite peckish!” came the deep voice. Then Albert heard… “Demitrius? What are you doing” and then the click of light switch… and Albert found himself hanging upside down in what looked like a bedroom.

“Demetrius! What are you doing… what have you got there?”
“Nuffin mum, I found it in the garden! Can I keep it?”
“No you cannot – it’s disgusting… and dirty… and I’m not keeping it in this house. Besides, I have no idea what something like that would eat”

Albert then found himself being roughly held by the ankle and bounced along side a very big leg… then a door opening… and then Albert found himself flying through the area towards the OOF! Suddenly it all went very dark again.

.

“Albert… Albert! Wake up! Look Merlin, Albert’s coming round”
Albert opened one eye, then the next. He opened them slowly, a little scared of what he would see next, but also to make sure that he wasn’t dreaming.

“Bernice! Bring the water! Rashmir! Bring the pillow! Arthur! Bring Albert! Michael…. Michael you just stand there!” Merlin’s commanding voice came across clear and strong.
“Wake up Albert; it’s okay, you’re safe now… and you’re a hero!”

Still feeling groggy, Arthur slowly realised that he was sitting in a wooded clearing, the sun streaming down on the bluebells and grass that blanketed the ground between the trees. He slowly looked side to side (his head really hurt badly) and saw all his friends… and then he realised – the column of water in the middle of the Elf Kingdom had disappeared!

He slowly stood up, but fell down again, still feeling dizzy. His friends helped him to sit by a tree

“It’s all back to how it was!” cried Bernice happily “Merlin made it all go away – the Spartanites, the Aquanauts, the water – everything! I can go home now!”

“All back? How all back?” enquired Albert to Merlin. In the back of his mind, Albert was sure that something wasn’t wholly right.

Merlin smiled “Don’t worry – I’ve fixed it all. I’ve put everything into it’s proper place and order. The Spartanites and Aquanauts have returned to their home worlds – Rashmir and Arthur decided to wait until they knew that you were better before they also returned to their kingdoms. But you, my young charge, have a job to do. We all have an appointment – with the new Elf King….”

A Story in 26 parts - R

“Right then you - tell me what’s happened” Merlin asked the Mouse.

The mouse looked quizzically at Merlin, then continued to nibble away.  David stirred in the background. “Where is everyone?” he asked.

The mouse smiled as it nibbled.  Merlin walked across to the court bench where he had been standing when the court was in session and picked up his Ash Stave.  Standing very tall, he banged the end of the stave on the ground three times.  The stone court, that had seen so firm and real, suddenly crumbled to ashes all round, and within a few moments the ground was back to the grass clearing that it had been.  The mouse started to run away… but it too felt itself changing…

Albert felt groggy.  “Why is it that I can never see anything through to the end?  Why does something always happen to me that causes me to miss the plot?”  He raised his head - no wonder he felt groggy - all he could see was things whooshing past him… like he was caught in a column of water!  “Oh no” he cried “I’m in the column of water that Merlin created! If he disperses the water, with me in it, then I’m doomed!!”

Merlin looked at the mouse, who was now twitching quite uncontrollably - lumps and bumps appearing and disappearing and moving under its fir.  “Ernisto - did you really think you could hide as a mouse?” and with that Merlin gently tapped the mouse - and it exploded into a dragon.  “That’s better” said Merlin “Now we can talk.  Tell me, what’s happened to Albert”

“Albert is safe for now - but we have him as a bargaining tool.  I have dispersed my troops back to their village - I need them no more.  What I need is for you to return things back to as they were.”

“Do you mean that?” asked Merlin

“Yes” said Ernisto “I had a good thing going with the Aquanauts and Spartanites until you and your ‘merry gang’ turned up.  Now I want my kingdom back”

Merlin rubbed the back of his neck.  “Now I can do that - but that will mean destroying trusts and friendships and oaths that I have made.  I will be ruined as a Druid”

Ernisto sneered. “No matter to me.  I have Albert, you do not.  You want him back - I can give him back.  Could you really put your promises against the life …. OF YOUR SON?!  Oh yes, I knew Merlin - I knew the truth.  All the lies that Albert was fostered to you by Morganna ElfQueen to raise as your son - yes I know she tricked you, beguiled you so many years ago…. and you yourself only found out when Albert reached his 307th birthday.  So - how clever are you now? What you gonna do?”

Merlin stopped to consider.  He’d had his doubts about who knew - and was glad that Albert’s friends were now unconcious or frozen - and so could not hear the conversation.  But could he trust Ernisto, who had been taught by Merlin but so thoroughly corrupted by Morganna to become the evil personified here and now.  He reckoned that he knew where Ernisto had put Albert - and that by adding another person to the column of water in the Elf Kingdom he wouldn’t have any time left.

“You want it back? As it was?” Merlin asked Ernisto.  Ernisto nodded.

“Then with a heavy heart, it shall be done.  Return Albert to me first”

“You must think I was born in the last century!” exclaimed Ernisto “Nu-hu. You do the work, I give you back Albert.”

Merlin turned.  He raised his hands, holding his ash stave in his right hand. He made three commandments in ancient language, pointed the stave towards the sun, then with a might never seen before struck the ground.  The Ash stave splintered as it hit the earth, the sky suddenly turned jet black and all became very, very still.

Merlin looked up… the black sky started to swirl, colour starting to return like a rainbow as it swirled faster and faster, becoming a funnel of energy that slowly drew to a point… over the column of water.  And then… the clouds touched the top of the water.  The air screamed as if two plates of metal were grinding together, the steam of the connection started to create a horizontal ring of smoke… and then finally, with a huge roar like the biggest wave crashing on the shore line, the energy from the connection pulsed out, knocking everyone over.  Everything went black.

A Story in 26 parts - Q

Quizzically Albert sat up.  His head felt sore – and he knew that he wasn’t in the court anymore.  He slowly looked round – and saw Merlin.  Merlin raised his finger to lips to ask that Albert didn’t say anything.  Arthur signed to Merlin “What’s going on?”
Merlin replied (also through signage) “We’ve been captured by someone.  Wait – a guard is coming past”

The splash sound of wet sandals on watery sand flopped past.
“That’s good” said Merlin aloud. “It will give us a few moments before he comes back”
“Who? What? Where are we?” enquired Albert.

“I had a feeling this would happen.  As soon as the court was created, Aquanaut spies crept into the court.  Now they have captured me, they will expect that Rashmir, Bernice and a few others with try and find us. They will capture them and hold them to ransom. “
“But surely Arthur will stop them” said Albert
“Err no” said a voice from the dark corner of the cell.  An aquanaut soldier drew himself up to full height. “Arthur’s strength is legendry – but we know about his loyalty and chivalry too.  He would not attack us if he knew your lives were at stake – and also Bernice and the Kalphite woman as well. Oh – and Merlin – this cell is built with an enchantment spell that you designed yourself to hold wizards so that they could not escape.”

“The Control cell? But that was never built!”  exclaimed Merlin.
“Try” said the Aquanaut “The construction, the lining, the embedded herbs, plants and tree roots will stop any spell that you may try.  Oh – we also added some additional herbs that means that within these walls any injuries you sustain will affect you like a mortal.  You are at our mercy now.”

Merlin sank to the floor.  “The aquanaut tells the truth.  I’ve just tried a couple of spells and they’ve not worked,  Might as well sit here…. He Albert, would you like some whisky?”  Saying that Merlin brought out a small hipflask and presented it to Albert.  Albert raised it to his lips – then fell to the floor, convulsing and twitching…. Then laid still.
“What’s up with him?” said the Aquanaut
“Oh he’s totally allergic to whisky.  If you don’t do something quickly he’ll die.  I’m guessing your job is to ensure that neither of come to harm…. So the ball’s in your court, fish-face!” And with that Merlin took a long drink from the  hipflask.

The Aquanaut ran to the cell door and started banging and yelling loudly
“Cell 4! Cell 4! Assistance Needed Cell 4! Cell 4!!”
David, Michael, Bernice and Rashmir strode towards the door.
“Hang on” called Arthur “Lets not be in a hurry…”
“But – Merlin, Albert – they’ve been captured” said the green-skinned creature.
“Yes they have… but there’s something not right.  The Spartanites are still sat here.  I would have expected something else.  You – David – excuse my distrust, but you turn up and our friends disappear.  If nothing else, you have to admit it’s all a little strange…”
“… plus a little whiffy” said Michael. Bernice and Rashmir looked at Michael.  “Look!” said Michael “His clothes?  He’s trying to look upclass and noble and not from round here… but everyone knows that the fashion outside this small kingdom has moved to a more casual look – and ‘nobody’ wears those boots these days.  I think the last time I saw those were about 15 years ago… and I know retro isn’t back yet.  Also – they seem to have some water damage to them….”

Michael was interrupted as David drew his sword. 
Bernice drew her dagger, Bernice drew her sword – but Arthur was already leaping across the court bench.  David raised his sword and parried Arthurs sweep.  One or two of the Spartanites reached for their swords, but Rashmir leaped over the benches and very quickly slashed the belts from the soldiers, causing the swords to clatter to the floor. “Don’t try it” she menaced.  The soldiers sat down.

David and Arthur dodged each others precision sword movements, not needing to stop the sword slashes with their own swords.  David made a sweeping curve with his sword, but Arthur was quicker and with a dextrous flick of the broadsword (not an easy task) flicked the lighter sword away.  They watched the sword arch through the air  - then land in the end of a sandal of a Spartanite soldier.  Smorga yelped in pain “that’s caught my stubbed toe! Watch what you’re doing over there!”
Arthur grabbed David and held the sword across his throat.  “Spill the trap” he said…..

A Story in 26 parts - P

“Please - let’s have some quiet…. where’s Merlin?  Where’s Arthur” Cried Rashmir.
“You - Apple-under-the-orchard - what have you done with them?”

“Me?” David replied “Nothing - honest!”

“Actually” piped up Michael from the back (glad I introduced him earlier - frog) “I think I may be able to help.  That smell - it’s funny but my neighbour next door gives off the same odour.  I thought it was some kind of favourite food that they had - you know these Spartanites, they do like their fish - but this was more… well, garlicy.  It had a certain ‘gach!’ at the back of the throat - you know?” At that point Michael made a coughing and gagging show.  Rashmir looked at Bernice, and both girls turned and giggled. “Anyway, I meant to say something.  This weather plays havoc with my arias - I sing you know, mostly musical numbers, but… any hoo… last week it was the strangest thing.  I noticed that the doors of the hut were open and so were the windows - oh, the smell, it was dreadful!  Anyway, I was going to do some dusting, but the smell was really too much, so I went to go and have a word, when Mr Baggins happened by.  I always say good morning to Mr Baggins and so I turned and said ‘good morning Mr Baggins’ and he saw me and said..”

“Shut up you blithering idiot and get to the point”.  Arthur was looking stern.

“No, silly.  Mr Baggins said ‘and good morning to you’. And I said ‘isnt it a nice day’ and Mr Baggins said..”

“ONCE MORE AND I WILL HURT YOU VERY BADLY. GET TO THE POINT”

“Oh, grief and heavens to Betsy! I was just about to… just about to carry on my conversation when my neighbour came flying out of the window - and landed in my Petunias! I mean, they had only just come in to flower - oh they did look pretty, so nice at this time of… oh you are so rude. Put down that sword - it looks sharp and might hurt someone.  Anyway, he quickly picked himself up and started to run off.  a big voice boomed out “WE NEED MERLIN AND ALBERT NOW” - actually deeper than yours!”

“DId you see the person behind the voice?” Asked Bernice.

“No I didn’t. Mr Baggins had started to talk to me about the rude man and how he’d damaged my flowers - Mr Baggins said he liked Petunias.  Do you like Petunias, dear?”

Rashmir felt her hackles rising.  “I AM A KALPHITE QUEEN. I AM NOT A DEAR. YOU ARE A WASTE OF SPACE - AND A DISGRACE TO YOUR UNIFORM.” With that, she turned and winked at Bernice.  Michael on the hand just stood there, realising exactly how useless he’d been.  But then, he thought, I didn’t want to be here anyway.

Bernice, Rashmir and Arthur left the Court.  Sir David trailed after them.  Just as they stepped outside, Aragog and Ernisto stoppped them. “Where you going? Court’s not over yet?”
“Yup” said Arthur “but without a judge, nothing’s happening.  We’ve heard our tales, and with the exception of Ernisto, I think we’re all on the same side.  I don’t know about you, but I’ve unburdened myself from years of torment.  I know I still have to pay for what I’ve done - but why don’t we find Merlin and let his wisdom present me with suitable pennance”

Aragog thought for a moment.

“Yes Arthur. Let’s pause for a while. We know that each of us has to prove themselves trustworthy - but Merlin is our mentor and guide - let’s find him and allow his wisdom to be passed to us. You three will never cover the ground that I can - and I could use additional eyes.  Sit on my back and we can search the lands”

Ernisto sneered “You stupid fools! You will never find them - and I’m not waiting for Merlin to punish me - I’m off!”

Rashmir reached into her bag and pulled out a small linen bag. “Ernisto - you’re not going anywhere.  Behold - I have dragon breath within me” - and with that she blew across the top of the bag.  The dust sparkled as it blew across Ernistos face.  Ernisto coughed - then froze.

“Dragon breath?!” exclaimed Arargog “You have dragon breath?  The powder that freezes dragons breath and renders them immobile for 1,000 years?!”
“Don’t worry” calmed Rashmir “the man that gave me this made me promise I would only use it for good.  When we find Merlin I will entrust it to him and make it safe.  Now fly - I don’t think we have much time left…”

A Story in 26 parts - O

“Okay - let that be a lesson to you all. Please, let’s just get on with an ordered court - can we?  Once we’re done we can get some lunch.”
A general murmur of agreement went round the hall.  Michael wondered if there would be cucumber sandwiches - he did like those, especially with the crusts cut off… (sorry, it’s near lunch and I’m hungry too. Frog)

“Now you - the one with the feather.  I will deal with you when the time is right - which will be after Arthur has told his tale.  Being someone who is immortal, it’s important that we get them to get on with it - otherwise we’ll be here for forever”.  The knight nodded his head… the green skinned one just wondered what this “lunch” thing was.

“Arthur. Please tell your tale.  Not the whole thing - just why Aragog has such a dislike for you.”
Arthur walked round the stone bench, his sword slowly dragged across the rough surface to emphasise that he really was not going to let go of his sword.

“My tale only goes back a few hundred years. Shortly after I had left Merlin’s training camp as a qualified Magician I saught employ with King Dyffedd of the Hills. Dyffedd was a good man, but could be easily hoodwinked by those who sat by his side.  From my time with Merlin I had learned to read Auras so could quickly identify those who saught Dyffedds power for personal gain.  I identified some of these people to the king, but his eyes and judgement had been clouded by these men - and they turned Dyffedd against me.  As a “punishment” they set me a challenge.

“”If you are as wise and clever as you say you are” said the advisers “you should be able to retrieve the golden chalice that is held by the Dragon of Erinmore”  They knew that this would be certainly result in my death - for popular heresay had told tales of knights seeking their fortunes, only to be killed by the Dragon”.

Merlin interrupted.  “The dragon - is this Aragog?”
Arthur replied,
“Yes sir.  I left the king’s side - but before I did I cast a protection spell to protect the King so that no mortal harm could come to the king by another man until I returned.  I then walked out from the castle walls.  I slept by the crystal lakes, using the fir tree branches as bedding and walked during  the day until I finally arrived at the cave entrance.  All around the entrance were the remains of bodies that I had assumed were the knights.  I waited for days until I was certain that I could plan my entrance to the cave.  Of course, my size was always going to be an issue - I’m not a small person.  Anyway, when the sun reached the hottest part of the day - when dragons sleep the most soundest - I crept into the cave.  My eyes quickly adapted to the dark, and I could see Aragog… more importantly, I could see the chalice.  As I crept forward to pick up the item Aragog opened one eye and saw me.  Although groggy, Aragog raised himself up and breathed fire all about.”

“You stole the Chalice!”  Cried Aragog “My chalice! Mine!”

“Aragog, I have done a great many things I am not proud of.  I had intended to return the chalice after the challenge - the kings councillors had said nothing about keeping it.  However, the fire burned my face and my skin, so I ran from the cave and dived straight into the crystal waters.  What I did not know at the time was that Dragon’s breath contains a great many crystals - and these had burned into my skin - including Tourmaline.  When I dived into the crystal clear lake the cool waters had caused my skin to rapidly contract with the cold - and the Tourmaline had set into my skin.  This is why I now have a blue appearance.”

“So what happened to MY Chalice?” Said Aragog. “You just said you were going to return it!”

“I returned to the King and presented him with the Chalice.  His advisers called me a trickster a cheat and many other things.  They said that I could not have stolen the chalice and lived.  In front of my face, they broke the Chalice into 2 pieces - as the chalice split it disappeared into dust.  They all knew at that point that I had not lied - and that King Dyffedd knew if I hadn’t lied about this, then I would not have lied about them either.  If you recall I set a spell to protect the King until I returned.  They knew that - and whilst one adviser distracted me the other took my sword and swiftly beheaded the King.  I could bear this no more.  I dealt immediate revenge on the advisers - save one, who I cast a truth spell so that all would know what had happened.  I then left the castle, never to return.

“So that’s my tale.  That’s why Aragog is rightly angry with me - and Aragog, why I was unable to meet my promise, something that has haunted me for years.  Merlin, you are wise - what is it for me?”

Merlin stroked his beard.

“I think I can make a decision - but first I want to hear from the knight.  Sir - please engage the court with your tale”

The knight stood and turned to the court….
[CONTRIBUTORS: What is the knights tale?]

A Story in 26 parts - N

“NOW STAND STILL”
The voice of Merlin rang round the Hall.  Everybody froze.
“RETURN TO YOUR SEATS. NOW”
Merlin stood, his body shaking with anger.

“You asked me to conduct this court – and that’s what I will do.  As soon as anyone starts anything, my justice from now on will be swift and sure – and most probably Fatal.  Ernisto – you learned from me, as did Albert and Arthur – however even at your strongest you will never beat me in magic. Just don’t try.  I have lived more years than the standing stones of Stonehenge, and have seen more seasons than the Great Woods of Sartogos.”

“What I cannot explain is how one hooded person has become two – a skeleton and a dragon – both one and at the same time”

Rashmir raised her hand.

“Approach, Rashmir” said Merlin.

“Merlin and council.  I don’t believe that the issue is that the one body has become two – I have seen this happen many times before.  When the Spartanites first approached us they had a single form – it makes them seem less dangerous – but they can quickly split and become two.  Rolisa said her day began in Chaos – and I think she meant it.  Ernisto used the power of Chaos to absorb himself into Rolisa’s body – but the power of his magic quickly drained the body and left the skeleton that you see here.”

Ernisto sneered. “But there’s nothing you can do now…. I have drained her of everything.  She is now nothing.”

Merlin raised his hand – and all fell silent.

“I will make my first judgement now.  Rolisa – you have been caught up in something that you could not understand or comprehend.  Whilst Ernisto has drained you of some power I can feel that there is still enough left that I can work with.  Please stand in the centre of the hall.”

Rolisa walked carefully to the centre.  Suddenly a blue swirling mist drew round the skeleton, slowly engulfing it.  Then like a raised curtain it dropped to the ground – and she was gone.  All the Spartanites sat on the benches around the hall murmured (and one or two quietly clapped).

“What’s happened to her?” asked Aragog.

“She’s back with her family Aragog. She played no part in your crimes.  Ernisto however…. Ernisto, you have explained your part in all this.  I have now heard from Aragog and Ernisto.  I now need to hear from Arthur.  Arthur – stand up and explain yourself.”

Arthur rose to his feet.  He looked across at Aragog, and then slowly at Ernisto.   The two dragons by the side of Ernisto hissed, then withdrew to the benches behind.  The Spartanites moved up to let them sit down.
With a very slow, deliberate movement, Arthur drew his broadsword – and laid it upon the bench in front of him.

“We will not have more fighting in this court” said Merlin
“Aye Merlin” agreed Arthur “however my fighting master told me that whilst we work for peace we must be prepared for war.  Having seen what has happened here – even knowing the powers I have and you have – I do not trust the two dragons beside me.  With your permission, I will leave my sword here to recognise that I do not mean harm, but that I do not trust the peace of the court to remain.”

“These are warriors words” said Merlin “and I will acknowledge them.  Within the peace of this court – please recount your tale.”

Arthur cleared his throat – and his voice rang out as he started to tell his story…….

A Story in 26 parts - M

Merlin stopped.  He turned slowly (luckily there was a big enough gap between him and the charging Spartanites).
“STOP THERE” He commanded.
Aragog stopped in front of Merlin.
The Spartanites also stopped - their swords glinting in the sun.  The arrows stopped mid flight, then fell to the ground.

Bernice, Albert, Rashmir, Arthur and the hooded figure slowed and stopped.  They then turned.
Merlin was nose to nose with Aragog.

“Look at your comrades” said Merlin.  He pointed at the column of water, still swirling and bulging.  “You kill us, you will never rescue your comrades.  they will be trapped in the column of water until the Ices of Hades descend once more and cover this kingdom and freeze that water to slow it.  If you have a problem, I have found that killing people is not the solution; talking first is always a positive step.”

Aragog’s nostrils flared. “You are with him… and him.” Aragog waived at Arthur and the hooded man “They are enemies of Aragog.  They did not talk.  They stole the very precious things from me.  They killed my family. You say talk, but your friends don’t do that.”
Merlin turned to the two men “Is this true?”.  They both noded slowly.

Merlin turned back to Aragog.  “Aragog.  I cannot allow you to exact revenge on these two men… at this time.  I cannot allow you to mindlessly kill others… at this time.   We must proceed in proper fashion.  Under the rules from the Grey Book of Henthras we will hold court.” 
Aragog nodded and Merlin raised his hands.  Suddenly great columns of sandstone rose from the ground, joining up in arches  twenty feet in the air.  The grass and ground shook as within the columns sandstone benches and tables forced themselves through the earth.  Arthur and the hooded man found themselves standing in their own docks - Bernice, Albert, Rashmir felt themselves move to seats to one side of the circular stone court that had appeared.  to the other side, Aragog sat on a wide slab of sandstone, his warriors on tiered  benches.  Merlin rose on a sandstone column, about 2metres square.
“I, Merlin, Guardian of time and order, Keeper of the mysteries of this land, will preside over this court.  I will follow the rules written down by Centra into the Grey Book of Henthras which have been used since trees first appeared on this earth.  Justice and revenge will be passed down on this day.  Any disagreement on the sentence that I pass will meet with swift and just result. Aragog - please tell me your claim upon these two men.”

Aragog rose.  He explained that his family of three dragons had lived in peace on the lands to the West.  The land was peaceful with man existing with dragon for many centuries.  He explained that over the years, new men had arrived from other shores and had wanted to take over more of the Dragon Lands - forcing the dragons to occupy smaller and smaller lands.  Finally Aragog said, there just wasn’t enough space to live and hunt as they had before - so they started to push back.  The men had become angry and had killed the smallest of the family - the head being displayed on the castle wall.
“Those men had no reason to taunt us like that” said Aragog.  His wife had exacted revenge on the men that had killed her son, silently flying over the town and identifying the huts that the men had lived in.  She then flew in low and with strong claw had destroyed those houses.  Aragog was quick to say that no man had been harmed by his wife… except the old washerman who had seen the dragon fly in.  He was so frightened that his heart had given out.  This was the signal the men had used to kill his wife.  “THAT MAN” said Aragog, pointing at Arthur “That man had dealt the fatal blow.”

Aragog then went onto explain that in wrath and fury he had then exacted a full and comprehensive revenge.  His wife and child were both now dead - so he killed every man in that village.  Once the bodies had lain there the crows and ravens picked the bones clean.  Aragog said that he had then cleared a space in the centre of the town and had not moved from that spot for sixty years “Until he arrived” -pointing at the hooded man.  The hooded man had come across an empty town, and had moved from building to building, stealing what he could find - until he had arrived at the centre of the town.  By that point Aragog explained, he had started to find different spaces in the town to rest - and had decided to sleep in front of the Great Hall.  Aragog said that he had heard some movement and had opened an eye - but quickly shut it as an arrow struck the eyelid “Luckily dragons scales can withstand arrows”.  However, the hooded man then attempted to stick his sword into him.
“At that point I’d had enough.  I raised myself and roared.  This man ran off - and I chased him.  I just caught up with him here and now… and I coul only presume that he was with him - and that they had come back to finish the job”

Arthur stood up - but Merlin waved him down.  “You will have your turn” said Merlin. Merlin turned back to Aragog. “Aragog, from what you have told me and what I know already would seem to indicate that these are two separate incidents.  However, I promised I would be fair and just.  The story you have told requires me to hear from these two fellows - and then I will give my decision.  You -” said Merlin to the hooded figure “yours seems to be the more recent tale, so I will hear you first.  So I can pass proper judgement, you need to give me your name and your story”.

The hooded figure rose and drew back his hood…

[Note to Scouts wanting to join in on the thread, but aren't sure what to write:

At this point, imaging the Great Hall, one of the Spartanite soldiers, brought forward by Aragog. Sandstone columns and other warriors are all around you.  In front of you a court is being held - a strange court which seemed to be created from nothing.  The judge is a man of obvious power - although in Jeans and T-shirt it does seem a little at odds with that.

So, you're sitting and waiting.  What are you thinking about?  What's your tale? How did you become a warrior? Do you have a family?  Just remember, you need to start the first word with the letter "M"]