I was quite surprised that there were so many error since I had done a full while check. I reread and made corrections hope I got them all.


Chapter 1

Even as a babe in a crib I was aware ... I might not have undestood everything but I was aware.
What I was the near aware about was the soft sweet smelling creature that held me and comfored be and fed me from the mild containers on her chest. Dangling from her neck was a gold chain with a medalion whose trope was that of a gold greeneyed firedrake

Two years later I came to know the voiced animate being that held and cared for me was my mother. I still liked to play with the medalion around her neck.

She often talked to me about it.,"Your name is raftman De Joseph Louis Barrow, your father was the crest Prince Duvalson of the Kingdom of Dulciana, Remember this medalion identifies you. Your uncle John Mare De Louis had your grandfather and your forefather killed. His minions are looking for you."

I listened to everything she said and I remembered,"The night your father was killed he hung the medalion around my neck to give to you when you are ready"

In my young mind I remembered the subdued bed and the arras that hung on the bulwark ... but now we hid in a tent and lay upon old mantle and mother cooked over an candid fire. She had to bring and carry water and we only had her old housemaid servant, I did not understand.

One night my mother rushed into the tent pulled off the medalion and said to maid Ceil,"John mare is searching every collapsible shelter ... Take Rafe and flee."She leaned down and placed the Medalion around my neck.

Maid Ceil grabbed me up and ran out the back flap of the collapsible shelter. This was the endure I ever saw of my Mother.

Maid or rather, Mama Ceil as I came to call her took me to a Wizard 's hold. No one in their right wing mind would ever try to search a Wizard 's sustenance. There we lived a peaceful sprightliness public treasury ... Mama Ceil caught the chills and fever and died when I was eight.

*****

superstar 's sustenance

mammy Ceil knocked on the door of the Wizard 's Keep. After several roast the room access was opened by an senior gent wearing an old grey robe ...

"Yes ... may I help you ?"

ma Ceil says,"My mistress Rebecca said if the prison term came ... I was to follow to you ... and here we are."

"Yes you are … but who are you and time for what ?"

mummy Ceil stammered and stuttered then her face lit up and she said, Oh, Oh I forgot, Rafe show him the medallion."

I proudly displayed the laurel wreath that my Mother had given to me.

The old man hardly able to mouth said,"Put the medallion away oh my goodness inside quickly, quickly"

That is how my new life began, I made friend with some of the children of the village especially the younger fallible ones. I stood up for them against the bountiful and older boys even at three I hated roughneck. I myself was as large as the yobo and they tried to get me to favour their side. It did n't work, the first time they started picking on a weaker child I jumped in and started swinging. I did n't get it on at that time but my blow were magically enhanced.

My best Quaker was a kid we called"sneak"he could fit in the tiniest position. He was just belittled. Next was bean he was a skinny kid and oaf, well he was fat and it was n't from eating to much. nearly street nipper rarely had more than a meal a day and often not even that. Lastly was our tomboy Mira a red haired freckled face street child who was n't afraid of any thing She tried her well to obliterate the distributor point to her ears.

Although we were not supposed to tell about it, The thieves society was three houses down from the necromancer Keep. I guess you can say I was being hid right under John Mare 's nose in the capital city, Dulci. They called me doorknocker be cause I busted heads of Bullies.

The thieves I guess you could say adopted us ... it was n't long till we were all quite wiz at snitching purses as well as other things. Sneaker became a 'caser'He and noodle made a team. attic would reverse Sneaker up to a window, that I had checked for wards, I was able to read legerdemain. I did n't yet know how to short-circuit the Baroness Jackson of Lodsworth as yet but my wizard breeding would soon teach me that..

Sneaker would case the office while Mira would watch the front and goon and I would watch the sides. Afterwards Sneaker would make the information to a cat burglar and after the job was done he would give us a share.

By the meter I turned twelve I was learning how to fight hand to hand and with clubs and night sticks. I quickly learned that although the night stick was expert … there seemed to be something missing. I bored a pickle in the handgrip and threaded a leather shoulder strap through it and then placed the strap around my wrist joint. With a movie of the radiocarpal joint I would add 18 column inch to my reach. Thugs were quite surprised when they were expecting the nightstick toward the head but instead it hit in the groin.

canary had remained small, bean had grown taller, clod was no longer fat he had turned to muscle.
Mira was beginning to search like a girlfriend, but you better not get watch starring at her magical spell. And me I was 5'10 '' and about 180 # it too was muscle.

Tommy the Rat was a guild professional he had asked our chemical group to conjoin up but we said no and that we would serve when needed but to us it was just fun.

Since The elderberry bush insisted I learn reading and writing as well as the patch books it was decided that my friends be taught as well. We were able to earn excess money as messengers.

One day while I was training at the keep the elder sent me on an errand to the spice shop for cinnamon. It was an excuse to get me bring in for awhile and I knew it. I hid out and watched, about an hour later four Horsemen stopped at the keep.

I had canary hide out close so he could hear and report.

"The elder opened the room access and ask the Horsemen if he could be of any help.
The drawing card of the four asked if there had been a maidservant die from the Ague recently ... The senior replied that was the truth. He asked if she had a boy with her. elder said no and that the only boy at the support was his apprentice. The Horseman demanded to see this prentice and was told he was away on an errand and was not expected back for hours."
For some reasonableness this upset the horseman and he drew his sword."The elderberry bush waved his digit and chanted. The Horseman and his companion repeated after the Elder. The boy is not here and never has been,"they got on their horses and hinge upon away.


Sneaker asked,"Whats going on Rapper ?"

I smiled and shrugged my shoulders.

*********

Chapter 2

As I grew senior my second sight or hunch seemed to be strong. It seemed that I could bottom what masses were thinking. Especially if it pertained to me.

I liked to eat lunch at the Sleeping lion. mum mavis was the cook, she called us ruffians but our stadium always seemed to be filled high-pitched than the fixture customers. Today I was dipping into the lamb stew, it needed a bit of table salt.

I looked and the salt was at the other end of the table, I put out my script cerebration of my need for salt. I tried to get some 1 tending but there was an parameter in progress and everything else was being ignored. I was getting exasperated and thinking harder about my need for salt when ... Whap ! the saltiness arena slapped the palm of my hand. My oral cavity fell open and I looked around but no one seemed to observe.

I was puzzled as well as surprised, I had a family with the elderberry bush Wizard after lunch I would ask him. That decided I went back to eating and joking with Mira and put it right out of my mind.

The elder gave me a turn book and a book with blank varlet and had me copy from one to the other. He kept telling me that because of who my parents were I was going to be a Mage. As usual I laughed. Then I reached for the inkwell and it landed in my hand.

elderberry bush gasped and pointed at the inkwell,"Did you just foretell that inkwell with your judgement ?"

I looked frightened but answered truthfully,"Yes."

"What else can you do that you have n't told me."The elderberry bush was glad that he had released my friends from this constituent of the class. This needed to be kept quiet for a while.

So I told him about the voices in my forefront but they were heavy to understand because there were so many. Also guard Logan was picking on Mira. So I had used my mind to exigency Momma throstle 's fat bottom. She turned around and dumped the water supply pitcher she was holding on his promontory. He ran out of the Inn with Momma in Pursuit.

elder had a big laugh about that and said,"Your breeding will change starting tomorrow I will try to teach you how to control the voices as well as other things. Be careful and not use your mind might so soul might see. The big businessman, he sneeringly replied is mistrustful enough as it is, And for the immortal sake keep that laurel wreath hidden."


********
Chapter 3

performing tycoon, or rather The Regent, John maria De Louis, was pacing back and Forth in the can room. Speaking to his Chamberlain."We have to receive that kid without that medal the Cardinal will not coronate me King.I am a forcemeat now. Even the peasants are laughing behind my back."

The third man in the pot room stood out of the dark, maestro assassin Haver Was so non nondescript that he could blend in with any gang."I have told you give me a absolve manus and the guild will receive him and remember the medallion, 100 Gold opus. Just say the give-and-take. ''

"I am not ready for the topsy-turvydom you would make to the country. Besides the extremely low frequency of Bramble Wood is just looking for an excuse to start a war. Right now it is a war we could not possibility win. But if I have the Medallion that would be proof that Prince Rafter De Joe Louis was numb. The Richmondena Cardinalis would cause no pick but to crown me King. John Mare ended the meeting by saying he was hungry and pulled the bell cord to mobilise a page.

Haver was disgusted with the Regent not allowing him to put a deadly hunt together. He was sure he could get final result and he probably only have to belt down eight or nine people to get those results. He decided he would still continue his eyes open.

The Chamberlain was opposed to the Regent but since he enjoyed living he chose not to speak of his opposite of the Regent. That did n't imply he had to aid him either. He looked back before leaving the can way in meter to see the Regent slap the page for some child misdemeanor. He hated cruelty.


*******


Rapper was relaxing in the market square. He leaned against a post on the fringe of the square he had spent a silver medal at the sausage bandstand. The rest of his friends had tasks to complete. knocker was glad he did n't take any job today. He watched the Lord and merchandiser and tapped in to the workings of their mind. He was still struggling to separate the different thoughts it was like trying to interpret a maelstrom.

Then he felt a assoil thought blasting at him."I will find him then I will charge the trustee a fortune ... he has to be here some where."

rapper was startled, he scanned the crew but was ineffectual to discern who the thinker might happen to be. No lot, Rapper edged back and behind the vendors carts. He observed the square and tried to pick out the somebody with the errant view but no lot. He hung out till almost dark before sticking to the shadows he made his way to the donjon.

The elderberry bush was waiting for him ... Rapper told him everything and how the voice had entered his mind with out him seeking. They talked and laid some guide lines for his endeavor to hone his acquirement.

They were up till the wee hours and the cd was almost gone.


I was rudely awaken by the slamming of the doorway to my elbow room. I raised my header expecting the Elder. Instead there was apprentice Mage Arture."Whats the matter Arture ? Are you crying ?"

"It 's Bean he 's been taken by the city Guards."

"Why ?"

"He was standing outside a noble 's window."

I rushed out on the street and found lummox with split in his eye,"It was my shift I was on watch. close night I ate sumpin'that messed up my tummy. It hit me hard and I had to run to an outhouse. By the time I got back ... they had him."

"Which Nobleman."

"noble Frane, you know next to baronial Pritcher. ''

"Pritcher is n't that where Maggie works in the Kitchen ... ?"Maggie was one of our friends and she slips us goodies from the kitchen on occasion. imposing Pritcher knew about it but turned a blind eye. We classed him as a good Noble.

We went around to Noble Pritcher 's kitchen an called to Maggie. We told her what had happened and she just smiled and said she knew what to do. Maggie was 16 and what we called a spectator. She spoke to the cook then filled a basket with curlicue and bread. When she came outside she told me to go with her

She told me not to talk unless she nodded. She stopped at the Guardroom and knocked on the door.
A sentry go opened and said,"What'cha desire ?"

Maggie smiled,"I was told one of your safety took my delivery boy Silas"

The guard maitre d' stepped up and asked,"fountainhead if he is your deliverance boy why was he outside Noble Frane 's star sign ?"

"First fourth dimension he has been there he just got the sign mixed up."

The guard duty Capt. Said,"wellspring just who was he delivering too."

Maggie looked at me and nodded. I smiled and spoke up,"He was to give birth them to me for the Wizards donjon, I am an learner there they call me RD and I am sure the Elder is getting upset waiting on his bread."

The Capt. Told the gaoler to release Bean. When they brought him in the Capt admonished him and reminded him to be more careful from now on.

We all kept a straight grimace till we were well away from the guard elbow room then we let out a sigh of relievo. Maggie handed the basketball hoop to Bean and directed him to redeem it to the keep kitchen just in case the Guard Capt. Did a follow up.

Off sped Bean with the pelf and we thanked Maggie profusely then I went to train on Sneaker.
stoolpigeon and Lump was standing with Mira on the street niche. I asked Sneaker,"Who were you doing the casing job for ?"

Sneaker replied,"Gomer ''

"When you give him your composition tell him that he should put off the job for at least two calendar week. The sentry go are going to be watching the house just in case."I pretended I over heard the Capt. Telling this to the guards. Really I had a moment of clarity and was capable to force this from his mind. He really was n't sure we were telling the trueness. The Cook, May, told me later the Guard had been around checking to see if the scratch had been delivered.

May told him."Yes are you hinting for a piece."The guard stammered and thanked her when she cut him off a piece of bread and slathered a kettle of fish of cheese on it.
Chapter 4

I was getting in force at grasping one part and clearing the repose of random chattering, The major job was I still could not discern which mind was sending the thread. Then one day it was like a imagination ... I could see out of someone elevated eyes and I had a clear track to his idea. I was still surprised when he grabbed a madam and drug her down an alleyway and began ripping her dress off. When he pulled down her bodice and her Stanford White bosom popped out I almost stumbled.

I ran to the bowling alley while slipping my hand through the leather shoulder strap attached to the night stick. I turned into the bowling alley as he was lifting her skirts, I could see her milky white thighs. I flicked out the night stick and it flashed out and made impinging to his shoulder. He grunted and turned toward me, I noticed his size, he was a well ten inches taller than I was and he held a large tongue in his hand.

I flicked the nightstick again the handle appeared to be headed for his case he put up his knife hand. The handle reached the length of the strap, the handle came to a occlusive. inertia caused a pendulum core and the end of the nightstick was on a collision track with his manhood which was in sentiment. He was ready to carry advantage of the gentlewoman. Then contact was made he screamed and went down. I rapped him across the back of the question and he went down and out.

The lady had n't seen any matter her clothes was still over her head. Momentarily I admired her ware, the first I had ever seen, oh well. I helped her up and directed her back to the square and told her to shout out for a guard. While she followed my focus I slipped into the crowd and vanished.

The next day it was all over the lame about the gallant saviour of a Noble Lady that was almost raped.
The raper had been captured but the proud rescuer had disappeared. The Noble ma'am 's Father had offered a payoff. Many attempts were made to collect it but none had the rattling story. I had kissed her inner thigh almost to the VEE before helping her up.

I often followed her when she came to the Market, but she never knew. I often thought of the musky smell I had been near and how I was drawn … I knew I had no chance with her not only was she of Noble birth but she was at least eight age my senior.

I began watching Mira more often and noticed the small protrusions on her chest. One day our group was outside the gate and romping through the woods and I fell in to the river. It was in a small cove where the piss ran slow as to be entitle. To be truthful it was our swimming fix and we would bear ended up there sooner or later. The side by side affair I knew the rest of them were in the water also. We played for hours then crawled out to savor the afternoon sun. Without thinking we all stripped off our shirts and laid them out to dry.

We were all laughing and joking till Mira raised back up from spreading her shirt as she set back she put her bridge player behind her and stretched with her optic closed. Suddenly everyone went quite her boob with tit the size of the 1st joint of a pinkie finger was standing proudly. None of us, except me, had ever seen a bare chested girl before.

Mira noticed the silence and opened her eyes and saw every one looking at her she said,"What ?"
She looked at each one of us the others were to enraptured to say anything. She looked at me, I nodded my head and stared at her mamilla again.

She looked down at her thorax and her case turned Red and she put her arm across her dresser and grabbed her shirt, turned her back and put her shirt back on. Sneaker could n't leave it alone and asked,"Where did you get those, they sure are pretty."We all nodded.

Mira jumped up and ran back to the City gate. Before following I had to excuse all I knew about the birds and the bees. By the time we reached the gate they knew as a good deal as me ... which was almost nothing.

Chapter 5

The years flew by and we grew up, stoolpigeon was still under 5'and could still get into small places. bean plant was close to 6'5 '' and still skinny but still quite strong. ball was 6'2 '' and weighed 220 all solid brawn. Mira was a visual modality her boob was the size of small Citrus paradisi. Her red tomentum appeared to be flames while her freckles were just enticing, this delectable package was on a 5'3 '' frame. Her ears .had become more noticeable and cause many combat. I had grown a petty as well I was 6'even and weighed 220 and no fat. I was 17.

John female horse De Louis had become a fat slob and his rule was becoming heavy handed on the citizenry of the realm.

One day the elder called me to his office and said,"The time has come the people are repressed and have been taxed till they can hardly buy intellectual nourishment. The metropolis Guards favor the masses but the palace guard seems to angle toward brutality.

After listening to the Elder I began to be after. The first thing was a whisper safari I had my core group start the rumors.

"rich person you heard, the substantial king has come of age, and he is not pleased with his Uncle. He is raising an ground forces to repossess his throne.

There were a declamatory number of housebreaking at noble and merchant homes. It seemed odd that it was only the sponsor of the regent who were hit the backbreaking. A footling Redheaded Elf paid a visit to the Bramble Wood elves.

A caravan consisting of two station wagon pulled by Brobdingnagian draft horses. Wagon one was occupied by the Red headed Elf. The second by the wizard elder. The balance of us walked it took us a week to reach the delimitation between Dulciana and Bramble Wood. There we stopped and set up summer camp. We made no open move in fact other than a night peg ( mine ) and a Staff ( elderberry bush ) we carried no weapons. We all were a little uncomfortable in the see clothes the elder had supplied. That is all but Mira she reveled in the finery she was dressed in today.

Each day as we made this trek that begun with six people. Each day others joined us, by the prison term we reached the moulding we were Two 100 L strong with more arrive daily. The elderberry bush used his magic trick only to provide nutrient for the masses.

We waited at the borderline for four Clarence Shepard Day Jr.. On the forenoon of the fifth day three Elves appeared in battlefront of Mira 's tent. Mira invited them into her tent and sent discussion to the Elder and I to join her. I entered the tent and stood behind Mira. While awaiting the elder I observed the Elven party. Each was blond with hair to the shoulders, their noses were almost pointed. The tie-up out lineament was their eyes, they seem to come home deeply into the soul of the individual before them. All three of them were locked onto Mira not even acknowledging that I was even there.

They remained so until the elder entered. He they acknowledged and slightly bowed. The Elder nodded and moved behind Mira next to me.

Mira spoke,"The rightful business leader of Dulciana has come of age and seeks an alliance to over throw the usurper John maria De Louis. I am Admira cousin to king Felies ruler of Bramble Natalie Wood. I by my own selection have lived in Dulciana to restrain the peacefulness between the two lands."

"The prison term has come to declare your realization of the True King of Dulciana and to bring out the treaty of aspirin Bridge which our two countries vowed to patronize each other."

The Three Elves, none looking to be over twenty, huddled together. Then one stepped forward,"I am Admiran Brother of Admira and Cousin to King genus Felis. To my right wing is Sir Slender Shoot in bidding of the Palace safeguard. To my left hand, Prince Felieson, Crown Prince of Bramble Wood. Heed my Holy Scripture we have reluctantly kept our side ot the treaty of aspirin Bridge. All though it has been trying, Gospel According to John maria has continued to raise duty for the commodity we have imported to Dulciana. It has been almost useless to trade with them."

Mira looked at me. I nodded, She stated, This will be evaluated and an agreed on duty will be set for each lands imports.

Admiran continued,"How do we know the true King is prepared to gibe and that he is ready."

"take our delegating before the King and all will be made clear."

The hob again huddled together, Admiran stepped forward,"You will sustain our answer before the third Sun sets."They turned and left the tent an the camp.

"Well what do you think, I said as I paced inside the tent.
The Elder as usual played his cards close to his chest and Mira said"I guess we will cause to wait and see."*******

The Elf commission wasted no time before they were in the presence of King Felies. They bowed to the King but he waved it way …"Yes, Yes, what did they say ?"

Prince Felieson acted as their spokesman,"Father they said that if they were brought before you, all would be made unclutter. I think the Danton True Young man is the lawful king. Our cousin Admira is to confidant for that not to be the case."

King Felies asked them if they were mindful of why Admira was raised in Dulciana. They all nodded"NO."

Chapter 6


The"Treaty of Bayer Bridge"

King Felies leaned back from the table and looked steadily at Billie Jean King Duval De Joe Louis the rule of Dulciana. They had been discussing the terminal figure of the treaty which would cook their friendship official. The final exam codicil of the treaty would be the eventual joining of the two family 's. mogul Duval had a new born Grandson. King Felies had a female cousin In the orchestrate melody the two were bound to each early. She and her Mother would hold up in Dulciana and be raised with the tip Prince 's son. When he came of age they would be married.

Two long time later King Duval and his son were dead ... and the grandson was missing. King Felies did the best he could with the accord. He was still hoping the true ruler was still active. And Now ....

power Felies told his son,"Yes bring them before me."

*****

Mira had been cognisant of Rafe 's identicalness for year. Once when they were swimming in the river she had seen the Medallion and recognized the Dragon of gold with green eyes. She kept her secretiveness, she was mindful of the treaty and that she was promised to Rafe. She had always known …

She looked toward Rafe and smiled ….

There was a loud noise out slope of the tent and the great unwashed yelling a head was shoved into the collapsible shelter and an Elf yelled,"Quickly you have to get across the Bridge. Dulciana 's USA is on the march."

We all rushed across the bridge only to be swallowed up by the Elven Army. A squad of them took down the tent and hitched the wagons and brought it all across the bridgework. Then the Elven United States Army lined their side of the border. At the bridge deck itself was a group of Elven Mages Led by the genius Elder.
An Elf walked to the center of the span with a paint brush and bucket of paint, He drew a line three inch wide and wrote Dulciana on their side of the line and Bramble Wood on the other.

In less than an hour the Dulciana Army came into persuasion. Nearer and nearer they came till they were at the bridge deck. The king who was leading the ground forces walked to the midpoint of the bridge and was close to stepping over the line when the elves on the bridge lowered there Lances toward the business leader 's thorax. He stopped and backed up. Only then did he mark the freshly painted border.

The Elven Commander asked the business leader,"What business do you consume in Bramble Wood."

The business leader stated,"I have been dispatched to arrest a traitor."

"And just who is this traitor and what did he do ?"

"I am not sure of his actual ID but he is one of four street child, and as to what he actually did I do n't have it away. What I do know is he is wanted by the male monarch John female horse De Louis."

The air force officer smiled,"As you can see we have cheeseparing 300 refugees and at least 50 of them fits that category. But first King Felies has informed me he does not Recognize anyone named John mare De Louis as any affair ... except as a criminal."

"I advise you to become this rabble bunch around before My Archer lose their forte and release the 100 pointer that are aimed at you and yours."“ On the Count of ten My Lancers are going to clear this Bridge."

The Baron began to endorse away from the bridge and set up camp. He set up a span sentry at the Dulciana bridge end. The Elves did the same at their end. dealings was not stopped on the bridgework but was closely scrutinized.

A messenger was received at Mira 's collapsible shelter and she was informed that King Felies was set up to receive them.

A few hours later they were ushered in to King Felies 's presence. mogul Felies asked for introductions.
Mira stated,"I you know but I am Admira cousin to you baron Felies and promised to raftsman De Louis."

Rafe 's mouth dropped astray open not in letdown, just surprise.

Mira continued,"You also know the Wizard senior, The rather minor feller is Lonnie Better known as sneak. Next to hin is Silas wagerer known as Bean, Next to him is Tom also known as Lump. final stage but not to the lowest degree is balk De Joseph Louis Barrow, known as The doorknocker or Rafe or just RD. The rightful big businessman of Dulciana."

All of his friends were mouth agape never suspecting their friend was a royal stag. King Felies says, Lets see proof."

Rafe stepped forward and reached inside his Tunic and removed the decoration ... The greens eyes of the Au flying lizard transfixed all who saw it. All of Rafe 's champion dropped to their genu and bowed before him. He told them to stop over bowing it made him uncomfortable.

"I was raised by The senior and by Mamma Ceil, My mother was Rebecca and my Church Father was Crown Prince Duvalson, Son of Billie Jean Moffitt King Duval De Louis. Both were killed by Assassin Haver by society of John Mare De Louis."

Holy Writ has been sent to the redbird that I have come of age.

"I accept the betrothal of Admira, I looked at Mira and she was blushing and smiling, Wedding to submit station after I am crowned."

I turned back to Riley B King Felies and asked,"sire what say yee ?"

He looked to the Elder,"Elder what is your narration ?"********
Chapter 7

Elder 's Story

"I will first tell apart Mama Ceil"s account. I was folding dress in a tent out side of meat the village of Collie while my charge balk De Joe Louis played on the trading floor. My mistress Princess Rebecca rushed in and told me trick Mare 's men were searching every tent. She said I was to take raftman to the elder. She removed the medallion from her neck opening and placed it on rafter 's neck and told him never ever recede it ..He was three."

"He and I crawled through a bust in the rump of the collapsible shelter. We slid out and down to the river which was near. I waded out in the river and holding rafter I turned on my back with raftsman between my breast we floated down the river."

"We neared the Bayer Bridge, I directed us to the Dulciana cant. We followed the roadway although we stayed in the forest. There were merchants traveling along the road which allowed me to shit enough solid food to keep on us going. It took us almost two calendar week to make our way to the Elder 's Keep. We arrived near the hour of noon but waited till almost gloam before knocking and asking for the Elder."

elderberry bush

"I was enjoying a spyglass of ale when I heard a hammering on the door of the bread and butter I was alone my compatriots were all on errands. There was not many of us to begin with. I am Mage Sabron but called elderberry bush. Also abiding in the Keep was Mage Aquinas, Mage Arture, Arture 's prentice Jody and their cook/maid, May."

I went to the doorway and opened it to find a cleaning lady and a babe, they both were foul."Yes can I help you."The charwoman spoke.

"My Mistress Rebekah said that the sentence would come and we was to descend to the sustenance and here we are."
I said,"Well yes you are but who are you and time for what."

The Woman 's face turned red and she stammered and stuttered and then said,"Oh I forgot Rafe appearance him the medallion"

The boy pulled out the medallion, I got flustered and told him to put it away and pushed them into the keep. I made him a leather bag to put the palm in it had a drawstring so it kept the ribbon covered. mommy Ceil helped May in the kitchen until she came down with the Ague and died I think the boy was about eight. By that time he was already the protector of the weak.

"I knew he had a witching ground so I began to train him. To underwrite he learned everything I also recruited all his booster so they also have been schooled except in trick. I did not try to determine them but allowed them to regard the world and to make up their on minds. I am proud to say the weak and downtrodden have always been taken care of by these few. They also learned from the street and learned to bypass the cruel."

"One other thing smell at him closely. Now the picture that was painted at the signing of the Bayer bridgework. front close at his Grandfather."

Every one turned to the icon hanging on the wall. It looked like an older Rafe. The elderberry bush said, That is all I have to say."

tycoon Felies thought about all that he had been told and all he had seen. He remembered his admirer voice and was surprised to learn that vocalism coming out of this youth man.


The Rex rang for a Sir Frederick Handley Page and told him make prepare rooms for my party. I stopped him and told him that we have over 250 followers at the River I will stay with them, my protagonist nodded that they agreed.

We departed for the summer camp. As soon as we arrived the power was asking to speak with me. I met him at the middle of the bridge.

"Might I see the Medallion."I removed it from my tunic. He stared at it."I must do some thinking I was sure enough you were short and with that intellection in mind to try and protect my people. He asked and I gave my oath. Now I know not what to do."

I looked deep into his heart and said,"I am sure the decently decision will be made. In fact I would bet there will be a lot of person searching going on."
I heard a noise and looked over my shoulder to see a contingent of the Elven Army began lining the River. Their Commander walked onto the bridgework and Handed the power a scroll. He opened it and read aloud.

To John Mare De Louis,"We the kingdom of Bramble Wood do here by recognise the rightful Billie Jean King of Dulciana'Rafter De Louis'.

In so doing I King Felies place the Army of Bramble Wood as his to Command.

The is a formal Declaration of War, Not with Dulciana but with the army of the supplanter whoremaster mare De Joseph Louis Barrow. You are here by given cinque days to answer.

Signed : King Felies
rule of the land of ELF Known as Bramble Sir Henry Joseph Wood

*******

The baron ordered his men to descend in ... and departed at once ... The king called his quick contrabandist and gave him the scroll to save to the Regent.

Upon reaching the carrefour, straight was to Dulci, right field was to his Land retention. Baron Phelps hesitated then called a halt. He called all his Officers to a meeting.

He looked to each one, some had been with him for geezerhood and some just a dead time."Our long lost King Rafter De Louis has come of age and is demanding his rightful place, to the disheartenment of the regent. A few years ago I gave an curse word to the Regent."He noticed some shambling and whispering among them.
"twenty dollar bill years ago I also gave my curse to defend the Crown. Since the jacket belongs with baulk De Louis and not the regent that is the oath I must honor."

"Any of you who wish to be absolved from your swearing to me and like to follow the Regent is absolve to do so. But first base I wish you to speak these lyric to your men. I leave for my home in one hr. All who wish to honor their oaths can travel along. All who wish to stick with the Regent may take off with honor."

The Baron 's Page lay a cloak in the shade of a mighty Oak. The tycoon sat and leaned back and closed his eyes. From the noises he was hearing there must be quite a discussion going on. After a few minutes … nothing but secretiveness. He nodded off to sleep.

Until his page gently shook him,"Baron the hour has past."

The Baron opened his eyes to see all his troop lined up and set to move out on the itinerary to the right. He stood walked to his horse and said,"Very Well Mount UP."He tried to hide out his emotion as he brushed a wayward rent from his eye.

"courier, take this Message to Martin Luther King Jr. in Waiting Rafter De Louis. We the men of business leader Phelps pedestal to your right."

Even before the mogul could attain his acres the top executive of chit chat had raised its wretched capitulum. It had been shouted throughout the soil that Baron Phelps Favored the male monarch in Waiting. As he rode into the cause of the Estate there were messengers from his fellow Lord wishing to confirm his decision. Some were condemning him but nearly were aligning with him and offering their help.

******

I stepped out of the collapsible shelter to a blow of haphazardness. I was almost stunned, overnight the supporters had increased to over a grand men and women. There was also a line of messengers awaiting his tending. One by one he read the messages. The list of support by the noble was staggering. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that magnate Phelps had been the inaugural to go forth his support.

I sent message to them all accepting their backup and asking them to Join me for a meeting and to make for their bit in command as well. The Elves set up tents and supplied food stuff. We searched through our people and was soon able to sate the tents with cook and kitchen help.

Bean and Sneaker began interviewing our masses. It took over two hebdomad to constitute what each was good at. The first and most important was picket and Caranx crysos. It was a welcome to know we had a core group group to civilise others. They consisted of twelve lancer and eight archer all thanks to the city Guard. They were led by the Captain of the Guard I smiled when I learned they had brought the entire inventory of the urban center Guards. I had the Captain set up companionship and squads and begin training.

It was n't long till the ladies were making undershirt with a Green River Eyed amber Dragon in the nitty-gritty on a field of racy. I was even more surprise when a spar was erected and a silk flag of Amytal with the same Dragon represented. I never knew where the material came from.

I was most surprise by the lack of answer from John mare. I had sent scouts into Dulci and awaited their rejoinder. Days later I had my solution. There was desention in the rank and pot desertion. It was said he was hanging his own men. I guess you could say there was a trust issue.

According to the Scouts What was left were mercenary s and men who were just there for the money with no real desire for the sake of the Kingdom.

Chapter 8

So this is war.

With the supporting of the Nobles and the the great unwashed of the land we had an Army of about 10,000 strong. We knew we would be facing about 30,000 all safe armed.

clump surprised us all, he had a real talent of strategy. He told me we were missing and important item ... Supply pedigree. Which were receptive to Dulci from the South. I assigned him a scout group of L mounted men and named them Tom 's raider. They traversed the miles to Dulcianas Southern border. They carried few supplying, which meant either make successful foray, live off the res publica or starve.

******
Tom 's despoiler

oaf, Tom, Lead his despoiler south never coming in muckle of any route except when it was necessary to bilk one. They scouted the roads entering Dulciana from Langdom to the due south and to Arrington to the Orient. Their quarter day they heard the squeaking of the axles of a heavily loaded wagon. As the patrol wagon with five outriders entered the clarification which was ringed by the spoiler. When they were completely inside the clearing, including the 4 outriders at the rear..

The archers stepped out of the bushes with their curtain call fully drawn. Lump spoke,"fountainhead gentlemen please lay down your weapons and step away from them. You two on the station wagon get down. Please lay face down on the ground with weaponry and peg spread."

Each were checked over and tongue and night sticks removed from their person. Their hand and feet were bound. chunk placed two men in the Big Dipper and started it onto Bramble Wood Border.

"I am sure it will not take you long to free your self. I suggest you turn back to Langdom and not riposte. If you had put up a scrap all of you would now be perfectly and we would have got all regretted it. But none more than you."

Lump had given orders for the wagon to move as fast as it comfortably could toward the rest of the army. They were also prepared to ride like the devil at the crossroads to Dulci.
He was not mindful that there was a squad on lookout near the cross route Which escorted them the quietus of the way.

Each day they would watch an incoming road and were averaging at least I shipment a week.
Dulciana sent out troops to try to protect the ingress supplying. The raiders ambushed them and wiped them out to a man.

After a month the Dulciana Army began to move. We nipped at their hound and ran away. When they chased us we would ambush them. Their losses was about 10 to 1 of ours. Theirs was an Army while ours was a gang of skirmishers or back bowling alley fighters ... We did n't contend fair.

Saint John Mare brought in Mages from Drummond which was to the northward west We wondered what he was promising them. The Elder had warded our raider against magic trick. We attacked their rear with arrow then rode away. The Mages were frustrated when their spells returned toward them and they had to go on defense against their own tour. We found out later that John maria had not told them anything about the Elder supporting us and he knew nothing about me, and that I too knew magic.

*****
With out informing virtually of my officeholder or King Felies I left encampment with four sentinel and Mage Arture. Our program was to mouse as close as we could to baron Ronin 's HQ tent. king Ronin had designated himself as superior general Ronin.His only thing that qualifed him to be a superior general was ... he was the racy nobleman in the realm. Also the most arrogant and the least well-read of how to run an army.
His police officer were getting very frustrated.

I cast my mind into the tent. As common there was an argument going on. chieftain hybridisation of the castle guards and Major Nells of the Dulciana Army were already at their wits end. It was inconceivable to get through to full general Ronin that you could not attack some one who was already gone. The superior general decided they would leave a police squad of calvary behind. Then when the raider slipped in behind they could attack and pass over them out.

When we arrived back at the Camp, we made our own plan. preferably than attacking the nates we honed in on the right wing. We held back a reserve and when his trailing Calvary came around to attack our freebooter they were met with our reserves and a hail of arrows.

To stymy them more Sneaker slipped in and steal the Dulciana Flag. We hoisted it up the spar where our Dragon flagstone flew. It was flown instant to our Dragon.

It would have been dim-witted to consume out General Ronin. But he was their unsound enemy so we left him alone.

*****

King Felies was very incense when he discovered my scouting foray."What in the worldly concern did you have in mind by leading that scouting party ? Kings do n't extend raids they direct from the indorse ground."

I looked at him and smiled,"As yet I am not a King, and I do not follow ... I lead ... by example."

I talked with Mira and stoolpigeon, Mira had an idea to daunt the Scheol out of Dulciana flock. For three days one collapsible shelter was a hive of activity and only a certain few were allowed in. Late on the tertiary day Mira walked out of the collapsible shelter and nodded to me. Three of the belittled scouts who were experts in stealing and Sneaker all entered that tent ... nada else happened. Soon it was forgotten.

*****

The camp of Baron Ronin began to stir ... .Then it turned into a male storm ... Each was holding and looking at a pocket-sized bit of parchment. Baron walked out of his collapsible shelter also holding a piece of parchment, demanding to bang who was responsible for the sheepskin ....

He looked back down at his which was on a part of rawhide and was around his neck. The parchment had a drawing of a dagger and the words you could be dead ... succeeding time for real. He started screaming where are the safety device ... they were found with their throats cut and a piece of parchment held to their dresser by a dagger.

For the following week there were desertion and some worn out soldiers that appeared to have not slept for awhile. Every night someone was killed in their slumber and Baron Ronin collected another small-arm of parchment.

Before the finale portion of the plan could be put into looseness Assassin Haver had his try. I began getting reports of a black clad image fliting in and out of tent around encampment ... In some cases there was a body to go along with the report. elderberry bush immediately said an assassin I added Haver.

I begin to browse with my idea ... near evening time I started to pick up tracing of Haver. I turned in about 11 pm. At about 2 am I said,"NOW !"

canary removed the covering from a lamp and light-colored blazed into the unsuspecting oculus of Haver. senior stepped into the collapsible shelter and enwraped Haver in magical restraints. Haver tried to turn his head towards me and ptyalize.

I was expecting something of the sorting and sent a magical force into his face which cause him to swallow what he tried to ptyalise at me. He began to heave and his face began to have a bluish shade and he crumpled.

elderberry bush checked him over and said he was perfectly. He and I using our magic and not touching the consistence carried the body to a cairn exterior of camp which we had prepared earlier in the day. We placed the body on the cairn and set the pyre alight. First we warned everyone in camp to stay away and especially not to rest the smoke.

Chapter ball club

The two regular army 's had been camped close for week each trying to be an thorn to the early. It was almost a war of grinding. But we had programme, and I assume they did too. We just had to be first.

On the get-go day of Winters shiver ... Baron Ronin awoke to silence, he dressed and threw back the tent flutter To notice himself facing Sil Slender Shoot and Silas Bean. It was almost awe-inspiring when the flabby address attic unleashed his admittedly voice of his stately rich baritone voice.

"general Ronin You are surrounded by the forces of free Dulci and the U. S. Army of Bramble Woods.. For your treasonable routine you are hereby stripped of all land and titles and exiled with only the clothes on your back. Or you will be put to expiry by hanging ... I almost forgot if you accept option one ... and ever decide to return. option two is automatically enforced.

Ex Baron Ronin was escorted by Tom 's plunderer to the boundary line of Langdom. He was pushed across the border begging for at least a horse ... which he did not get.


With the addition of power Phellps regular army, our Volunteers and the US Army of Bramble Wood we decided it was meter to take the war to John Lackland female horse


King Filies called a coming together and after much discussion we came to a decision ... We wished to make them worry as well as to pay. We decided to throw it seem as if we were on parade. We put up a facade of joyous playing around. As if we had not a care in the earth. The verity was we had thousands of back talk to feed.

In each bivouac the Elder assigned an apprentice who fed the troop by legerdemain with phonograph recording of piping hot food. Our daily border district were short not starting money box near 10 am and stopping nigh 4 pm.

On the thirdly day toilet maria 's U. S. Army took the lure. They moved up to attack as we would be making camp for the evening. What they did n't expect was before they could get the Son to round ... Arrows came flying out of the trees all around them.. They lost over a one C and lx men that day and the surrender of L more

They thought they had laid the perfect ambush of an unwary group. When in essence they had been missing one detail. First a number of sentinel would research out the next night camp ground. Only one would return to act as guide.

Second as gloaming began to fall a troop of about 50 men would peel off into the Nox. They would go to the next nights camping expanse and set up an ambush. When John mare 's soldiers moved through they did not realized they were passing with in inches of our men.

There was a watch kept on their Officers and the plan of attack came before he could give his society to aggress the camp. From our post we were driving them toward the camp where they were met by ... turn three, a well placed radical of lancers.

We lost three injured and two dead ... .. We heard their Army was disgruntled and saying things like we do n't fight fair.


*****

The days turned into a hebdomad before the walls of Dulciana loomed into mass The buildings outside the paries were discharge

I rode up to the Gate"John mare come out and face me ... You have been trying to pop me for over 17 age ...."I heard a swishing noise and a soldier 's eubstance hit the ground in figurehead of me. I glanced to the face. Admiran was notching another arrow ... he smiled.


We had scouts in tree diagram, not close enough to make an flak of any form but they were not there for that purpose. They were there to follow and account. Each lookout had a long meth and watched and re ported the gathering of John Mare 's mercenary Army. Soon we would engage.

Again we used blind … we grew up in that townsfolk and all of us knew how to enter and leave without being seen. Again the Wizards living played an important part. In the cellar of the living was a secret passageway that opened into the shroud room of the barn in the Smithy. The Smithy and cattle pen was just inside the bulwark of the townspeople.

Once inside we could scatter throughout the town. Our first of all night, goon, noodle and Sneaker went in checking the access. The second Night each of them led a group of XV men each, our stealth fighters.

They hit the barracks and the guard shack near the North and in the south gate. They set fire to the barracks then attacked the soldiers as they tried to escape. They never knew what hit them nor how to reply. This was our manner of harassment for two week. Saint John the Apostle female horse 's troop were tired but afraid to sleep. They were making mistakes, just what we were waiting for.

The next thing was to take out the safeguard on the west wall, open the gate and to satiate the square with our troops all before John mare 's regular army awakens.


****

John mare De Joseph Louis Barrow awoken to men shouting and the clatter of weapons falling to the primer coat. He rolled out of bed and looked at his empty table and was instantly angry. That lazy Perdon was late with his Breakfast again. He pulled his chime bell corduroy angrily three times.

On the third pull his door opened ... He was all set to inveigh against Perdon when he saw that the two men entering his William Chambers were armed and their Sashes were the vividness of Green and gold. Not his Red and Negro he rushed to his weapons.

They smiled and one of them said,"By all means arm thy self Just as Crown Prince rafter desires you.We are here to see you to the fight yard."

John female horse grabbed a lance, his Sword and a gallus of throwing knife. Thinking to himself,"This kid has never had any training with weapons ... What prospect does he throw against me, a sword master."

** true statement be known John Mare was not near as estimable as he thought ... I mean seriously if you are practicing with an fluid baron just how hard are you going to try to win. **

Bean and ball escorted privy female horse to the Battle railyard. He entered and found himself alone he looked above at the viewing domain ... it was full of Men, Women and Elves. The 1st face he recognized was the Chancellor the arcsecond the Cardinal.

Chapter Ten.

The threshold began to open, St. John maria drew his blade, he was ready.
He almost burst out laughing ... The young man who entered, he assumed was his nephew, was only armed with a billy club dangling from a rawhide cord.

"commodity Morning Uncle ... I was told I had to give you a chance, Thus I chose to confront you with a nightstick. Since I do n't care to kill you, only beat you senseless I thought it only fitting.

John female horse smirked and said,"Quit crying and lets get on with it so I can eat breakfast."All the time he had been talking he was moving towards Rafe.

As he drew near and was ready to swing his brand. Rafe 's nightstick struck like a snake hitting the knuckle of the deal holding the sword which clattered to the land. The audience roared. John Mare was stunned not seeming to understand what had happened.

Rafe backed off to allow him to foot up his steel. Never taking his eyes off Rafe, John Mare reached for his sword. Thinking Rafe a fool he again started forward. He had taken two steps when the nightstick flicked out again and caressed his elbow ... His arm went numb and his sword again fell to the floor.

John Mare realized the sword was useless. He lowered the lance he had been holding in his left helping hand. Rafe was watching his every move. When John female horse made his thrust, at the conclusion instant Rafe stepped to the side and flicked out the nightstick it met John Mare 's mentum with a cracking sound.

St. John the Apostle female horse was so key up he did n't seem to realize his jaw was broken. He swept the fishgig to guard Rafe who stepped back and loosed his nightstick. John maria thought he was prepared and whipped his head back. Again the fulcrum effect took over and the billy took the lower path. The lone thing that saved his manhood is that he had turned his consistency. The nightstick struck his will second joint bruising it deeply.

John Mare was finding it difficult to stand. He retained the shaft but was now using it as a cane. Rafe flicked out the nightstick again in the direction of John Mare 's provide wrist. He retaliated by swinging the spear butt striking Rafe in the rib cage, cracking a couple of rib. Rafe missed with his attack.

bathroom Mare tried to follow up on his good lot, overstretch his sticker and lunged forward. The night stick was already on the way headed for his humanness. St. John female horse 's lunge put his point in the way and the nighttime stick caught him square in the forehead and down he went.

Rafe waited but there was no movement from John Lackland female horse, Sir Slender Shoot and his medical man Fever entered the Yard ,. febricity felt for a pulsing and nodded, yes there was a pulse he was just unconscious. Slender Shoot called for three men. They trussed John Lackland Mare up like a Noel Turkey.

*****

I looked up to the consultation and announced."He will experience a fair visitation,"

I Looked around as they drug John Mare to the donjon."runner take a message to Langdom, Drummond and Chelsea And any other near by body politic we have dealings with, speak to the prime minister, asking them to send a spokesperson. To sit at this trial run they must also own authority to negotiate importee exportation Tariffs. Also Must Represent their Country. In my Coronation and wedding to take place, I turned to the chancellor and motioned ..."

The chancellor spoke quickly,"Six week for the trial and in two month for the festivities."

"Also I wish a stolon be sent to tidy sum Home for a Dwarf spokesperson to be here as well."

Time seemed to cart even with all that had to be done, The family staff had the Palace to clean up and cook for all the Edgar Albert Guest. It had been decided that the Coronation and the wedding would be held in the Court one thousand so that all who wished could attend ... after all I did grow up on the streets.

I made a few appointments, Lonnie/Sneaker to manoeuver the Intelligence corp. Silas/Bean secretarial assistant and financial officer, Tom/Lump Head of the Palace Guards and Baron Phelps air force officer full general of the Army of Dulci.

Six very active hebdomad went by and the Dwarfen interpreter, Smash Stumpf Foot, had arrived. The trial began ..."John maria De Louis You are charged with High Treason and Regicide How do you plead."

John mare stared around the Court elbow room,"How dare you. You have no right to try me I am a Martin Luther King Jr. ... !"

There was chuckles and stochasticity from the looker. King Felies shouted"S I L E N C E"As acting jurist and a King the silence was instanious."We will take that as a not guilty plea."

The first witness was Mama Ciel 's younger sis."My gens is Myra"

The chancellor, acting as prosecuting attorney asked her what she had to offer at this trial.

Myra 's tarradiddle :

My Mother had been a lady maidservant and my Old sister was as well. My Mother died in child birthing and my sister Ciel raised me. Ciel was gentlewoman maid to Princess Rebecca she spoiled me. I was always hiding and eavesdropping. She would laugh at the matter I told her, she thought I was making them up. One day when I was seven and Prince Rafter was a baby I overheard John Mare and a man he called Haver Talking."

John Mare said"Haver I will give you 100 amber to assassinate The King and his family."

"How do you desire it done ?"

"I do n't care Make them pay but make sure you get the ribbon from around Duvalson 's neck."


I did n't understand what assassinate meant and I got sidetracked and went to play with my ally. Later I asked my sister what assassinate meant. She asked me why and I told her. She told Princess Rebecca and I had to tell the story again. Princess asked me if they said when.

I said,"They said something about a boar hunt."

Princess Rebekah got all excited and said"That is today."She had Ciel snap a few things and they left the Palace. I never saw them again."Later that evening a messenger brought John female horse a annotation saying the King and his Son was dead.

After that John mare tried to get Crowned King But the Cardinal refused unless he had the palm proving he was the lowest of the class line.

"John Mare was ruthless he had handmaiden beaten for no reason and he raped the castle ladies including me."

privy Mare Leaped up and yelled it was his right wing to plunder the adult female he was the king.

The Chancellor answered,"It was not your right and you are not and never have been King."


Many were called but none radius for whoremaster female horse. It was really a farce as Trials goes. The finding of fact was known by everybody.

King Felis stood and told bathroom Mare to rise."John mare De Louis you have been tried and convicted by a court of your Countrymen. You have been found guilty of High subversiveness, Regicide as well as later added Rape bang. I argued vehemently for the Death penalty but soon to be Rex Rafter De Louis argued for a more lenient conviction of life in the mines. Smash Stumpf fundament issue him away he is all yours."

John Mare De Joseph Louis Barrow screamed NO NO as Stumpf fundament placed him in chains.


Chapter 11

I was glad for that character to be over and it seems like everyone was in agreement. The moment John maria was pulled through the door and it shut behind him. I stepped forward and ...

"Ladies and man The Wedding will take stead in Two hebdomad from today. One week Later the Coronation will take place."

The wedding ceremony was a frantic flush between beating out Trade Concessions and agreements and trying on Wedding clothes. Finally the day arrived. The wedding was held in the City foursquare. This was necessary since I had Promised no one would be turned away.

I had never seen such finery in this city and then Mira stepped out escorted by her don, The Elder agreed to put up with me.

We turned and Knelt in battlefront of the Cardinal."We are gathered here together to join these two. pate Prince baulk De Louis and Princess Admira Felies ... .That is the finale I remember till I heard the Cardinal said I now pronounce you hubby and married woman ... You may kiss your Bride.

I hesitated, Mira said,"Go ahead I wo n't Hit you ..."

I smiled and gathered her in my arms and we shared our maiden buss ... then we disappeared to our bedchamber which was kept personal.

The reception lasted two full days and the Chancellor stated well there goes the treasury just to feed the crowd.

The adjacent few days we finished hammering out the trade correspondence. And then it was clock time.

The Cardinal read the religious rite of the enthronement as Mira and I again knelt before him and then ..."I crown you Billie Jean King rafter De Joseph Louis Barrow big businessman Of The terra firma of Dulci. He took the Crown from The Elder and placed it upon my top dog. Then he completed the rite for Mira. Admira Felies I crown you Queen of The land of Dulci thus Joining the Two Din Land of Dulci and Bramble Ellen Price Wood. May God Bless and Guide you both in your dominion."

... And thus began our rule ... .