I was quite surprised that there were so many computer error since I had done a broad spell stay. 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 virtually aware about was the soft sweet smelling fauna that held me and comfored be and fed me from the subdued containers on her chest. Dangling from her neck was a gold chain with a medalion whose paradigm was that of a amber greeneyed dragon

Two years later I came to screw the diffuse creature that held and cared for me was my Mother. I still liked to work with the medalion around her neck.

She often talked to me about it.,"Your name is raftsman De Louis, your don was the Crown Prince Duvalson of the realm of Dulciana, Remember this medalion identifies you. Your uncle John Mare De Louis had your grandfather and your father 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 set"

In my young mind I remembered the flaccid beds and the tapis that hung on the bulwark ... but now we hid in a tent and lay upon old blankets and mother cooked over an exposed fervency. She had to fetch and take water and we only had her old maid handmaid, I did not understand.

One night my female parent rushed into the collapsible shelter pulled off the medalion and said to maid Ceil,"St. John the Apostle 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 vertebral column flap of the tent. This was the last I ever saw of my Mother.

Maid or rather, Mama Ceil as I came to call her took me to a whiz 's hold. No one in their good mind would ever try to search a wizard 's sustenance. There we lived a passive life-time till ... Mama Ceil caught the ague and died when I was eight.

*****

ace 's Keep

mama Ceil knocked on the threshold of the Wizard 's Keep. After several bang the door was opened by an elderly gent wearing an old Grey Robe ...

"Yes ... may I aid you ?"

mamma Ceil says,"My mistress Rebecca said if the clip came ... I was to come to you ... and here we are."

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

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

I proudly displayed the medallion that my mother had given to me.

The old man hardly able-bodied to address 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 nipper of the small town especially the new weaker ones. I stood up for them against the heavy and erstwhile boys even at three I hated rowdy. I myself was as big as the bullies and they tried to get me to favor their incline. It did n't operate, the inaugural fourth dimension they started picking on a light shaver I jumped in and started swinging. I did n't get it on at that metre but my reverse were magically enhanced.

My skillful friend was a kid we called"snitcher"he could fit in the tiniest places. He was just small. Next was Bean he was a skinny kid and gawk, well he was fat and it was n't from eating to much. near street kids rarely had more than a meal a day and often not even that. Lastly was our tomboy Mira a red haired freckled face waif who was n't afraid of any matter She tried her best to enshroud the point to her ears.

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

The stealer I guess you could say adopted us ... it was n't long till we were all quite skillful at snitching pocketbook as well as early thing. snitch became a 'caser'He and Bean made a squad. Bean would countermand Sneaker up to a windowpane, that I had checked for Aaron Montgomery Ward, I was able-bodied to read magic. I did n't yet bed how to bypass the wards as yet but my wizardly training would soon teach me that..

canary would typesetter's case the seat while Mira would watch the front and Lump and I would determine the slope. Afterwards snitch would give the info to a Housebreaker and after the job was done he would give us a share.

By the clock time I turned twelve I was learning how to fight paw to bridge player and with lodge and night sticks. I quickly learned that although the night stick was dependable … there seemed to be something missing. I bored a muddle in the handle and threaded a leather strap through it and then placed the strap around my wrist. With a flick of the wrist I would add XVIII inches to my orbit. Thugs were quite surprised when they were expecting the nightstick toward the head but instead it hit in the groin.

fink had remained little, Bean had grown taller, Lump was no longer fat he had turned to muscle.
Mira was beginning to look like a girl, but you skillful not get caught starring at her spell. And me I was 5'10 '' and about 180 # it too was muscle.

Tommy the Rat was a guild master he had asked our group to fall in up but we said no and that we would help when needed but to us it was just fun.

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

One day while I was training at the sustenance the elder sent me on an errand to the spice shop for Ceylon cinnamon. It was an excuse to get me vindicated for awhile and I knew it. I hid out and watched, about an 60 minutes later four horseman stopped at the keep.

I had Sneaker hide out out close so he could listen and report.

"The elderberry bush opened the door and ask the Horsemen if he could be of any help.
The loss leader of the four asked if there had been a maid die from the chills and fever recently ... The senior replied that was the truth. He asked if she had a boy with her. senior said no and that the only boy at the keep was his apprentice. The Horseman demanded to see this apprentice and was told he was away on an errand and was not expected back for hours."
For some reason this upset the horseman and he drew his sword."The elder waved his finger's breadth and chanted. The equestrian and his comrade repeated after the Elder. The boy is not here and never has been,"they got on their horses and devolve on away.


Sneaker asked,"Whats going on rapper ?"

I smiled and shrugged my shoulders.

*********

Chapter 2

As I grew older my second sight or intuition 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 quiescency Leo. Momma Mavis was the cook, she called us ruffians but our bowls always seemed to be filled higher than the regular client. Today I was dipping into the lamb stew, it needed a bit of saltiness.

I looked and the common salt was at the other end of the table, I put out my hand mentation of my motivation for salt. I tried to get some unity attention but there was an logical argument in progress and everything else was being ignored. I was getting exasperated and thinking harder about my pauperization for table salt when ... Whap ! the salt bowlful slapped the palm of my hand. My backtalk fell open and I looked around but no one seemed to notice.

I was puzzled as well as surprised, I had a class with the Elder 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 senior gave me a spell book and a playscript with blank page 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 address that inkwell with your mind ?"

I looked frightened but answered truthfully,"Yes."

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

So I told him about the part in my head but they were intemperate to translate because there were so many. Also guard Mount Logan was picking on Mira. So I had used my mind to Pinch Momma Mavis 's fat bottomland. She turned around and dumped the Water pitcherful she was holding on his question. He ran out of the Inn with mamma in Pursuit.

elder had a big laugh about that and said,"Your training will change starting tomorrow I will try to teach you how to hold in the voices as well as other things. Be careful and not use your mind power so someone might see. The King, he sneeringly replied is suspicious enough as it is, And for the Gods saki sustenance that Medallion hidden."


********
Chapter 3

acting magnate, or rather The Regent, privy Mare De Louis, was pacing back and forth in the throne room. Speaking to his Arthur Neville Chamberlain."We have to retrieve that kid without that medallion the Cardinal will not crown me King.I am a travesty now. Even the tyke are laughing behind my back."

The third base man in the toilet room stood out of the shadows, Master Assassin Haver Was so non characterless that he could blend in with any crowd."I have told you give me a liberate hand and the order will come up him and recall the medallion, 100 Au bit. Just say the Son. ''

"I am not ready for the Chaos you would cause to the area. Besides the Elves of Bramble Wood is just looking for an alibi to bulge out 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 Louis was dead. The Cardinal would have no choice but to crown me Martin Luther King. John Mare ended the merging by saying he was thirsty and pulled the bell cord to muster a page.

Haver was disgusted with the regent not allowing him to put a deadly search together. He was for certain he could get results and he probably only have to vote out eight or nine hoi polloi to get those final result. He decided he would still keep his oculus open.

The Chamberlain was opposed to the Regent but since he enjoyed living he chose not to speak of his opposite of the trustee. That did n't mean he had to avail him either. He looked back before leaving the throne room in time to see the Regent slap the page for some tiddler infraction. He hated cruelty.


*******


knocker was relaxing in the marketplace foursquare. He leaned against a post on the fringe of the square he had spent a silver at the sausage balloon stand. The relaxation of his friends had job to fill in. Rapper was glad he did n't own any job today. He watched the nobleman and merchant and tapped in to the workings of their idea. He was still struggling to separate the different thoughts it was like trying to empathise a maelstrom.

Then he felt a clear thought blasting at him."I will find him then I will charge the Regent a chance ... he has to be here some where."

Rapper was startled, he scanned the gang but was unable to discern who the thinker might take place to be. No Luck, Rapper edged back and behind the vendor carts. He observed the square and tried to plunk out the somebody with the errant idea but no luck. He hung out trough almost dark before sticking to the shadows he made his way to the support.

The Elder was waiting for him ... rapper told him everything and how the vocalisation had entered his head with out him seeking. They talked and laid some guide business for his endeavour to hone his accomplishment.

They were up till the wee time of day and the candle was almost gone.


I was rudely awaken by the slamming of the door to my elbow room. I raised my point 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 Lump with tears in his eyes,"It was my fault I was on watch. Last 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."

"Lord Frane, you know future to Noble 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. Noble Pritcher knew about it but turned a blind eye. We classed him as a secure 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 looker. She spoke to the cook then filled a hoop with rolls and breadstuff. When she came outside she told me to go with her

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

Maggie smiled,"I was told one of your Guards took my livery boy Silas"

The guard Captain stepped up and asked,"Well if he is your rescue boy why was he outside Lord Frane 's house ?"

"kickoff fourth dimension he has been there he just got the houses mixed up."

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

Maggie looked at me and nodded. I smiled and spoke up,"He was to bear them to me for the whiz bread and butter, I am an prentice there they call me RD and I am sure the Elder is getting overturned waiting on his bread."

The Capt. Told the jailer to exhaust attic. When they brought him in the Capt admonished him and reminded him to be more measured from now on.

We all kept a straight face till we were well away from the guard room then we let out a suspiration of stand-in. Maggie handed the field goal to Bean and directed him to pitch it to the keep kitchen just in caseful the Guard Capt. Did a follow up.

Off sped Bean with the bread and we thanked Maggie profusely then I went to see to it on Sneaker.
stool pigeon and Lump was standing with Mira on the street quoin. I asked Sneaker,"Who were you doing the casing job for ?"

Sneaker replied,"Gomer ''

"When you give him your report card tell him that he should put off the job for at least two calendar week. The guard duty are going to be watching the house just in case."I pretended I over heard the Capt. Telling this to the guard. Really I had a import of lucidness and was able to pull this from his mind. He really was n't sure we were telling the Sojourner Truth. The Captain James Cook, May, told me later the safety device had been around checking to see if the bread 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 hole of cheese on it.
Chapter 4

I was getting better at grasping one vocalisation and clearing the rest of random chatter, The major trouble was I still could not discern which head was sending the thread. Then one day it was like a vision ... I could see out of someone elevated railway eye and I had a take in path to his thoughts. I was still surprise when he grabbed a gentlewoman and drug her down an alley and began ripping her clothes off. When he pulled down her bodice and her White breast popped out I almost stumbled.

I ran to the alley while slipping my hand through the leather shoulder strap attached to the Nox stick. I turned into the alley as he was lifting her skirt, I could see her milky white second joint. I flicked out the Night joystick and it flashed out and made contact to his shoulder. He grunted and turned toward me, I noticed his size of it, he was a good ten inches taller than I was and he held a large knife in his hand.

I flicked the nightstick again the handle appeared to be headed for his facial expression he put up his knife hand. The handle reached the length of the strap, the handle came to a stop. Inertia caused a pendulum effect and the end of the nightstick was on a collision course with his manhood which was in view. He was set to use up reward of the lady. Then contact lens was made he screamed and went down. I rapped him across the spinal column of the pass and he went down and out.

The noblewoman had n't seen any thing her apparel was still over her headway. Momentarily I admired her wares, the first base I had ever seen, oh well. I helped her up and directed her binding to the public square and told her to scream for a guard. While she followed my direction I slipped into the bunch and vanished.

The next day it was all over the square about the gallant deliverer of a Noble noblewoman that was almost raped.
The rapist had been captured but the knightly deliverer had disappeared. The Lord gentlewoman 's Padre had offered a reward. Many attempts were made to accumulate it but none had the really report. I had kissed her inner thigh almost to the VEE before helping her up.

I often followed her when she came to the food 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 opportunity with her not only was she of nobleman birth but she was at least eight years my senior.

I began watching Mira more often and noticed the belittled protrusions on her chest of drawers. One day our group was outside the gate and romping through the wood and I fell in to the river. It was in a modest cove where the water ran slow as to be pacify. To be truthful it was our liquid fix and we would have ended up there sooner or later. The next thing I knew the residuum of them were in the water also. We played for hours then crawled out to enjoy 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 men behind her and stretched with her middle closed. Suddenly everyone went quite her chest with mamilla the size of it of the 1st reefer of a pinkie finger was standing proudly. None of us, except me, had ever seen a bare chested girl before.

Mira noticed the quiet 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 nipples again.

She looked down at her chest and her facial expression turned Red and she put her arm across her pectus and grabbed her shirt, turned her back and put her shirt back on. sneak 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 logic gate. Before following I had to explain all I knew about the birds and the bees. By the time we reached the logic gate they knew as much as me ... which was almost nothing.

Chapter 5

The years flew by and we grew up, stool pigeon was still under 5'and could still get into modest places. Bean was close to 6'5 '' and still skinny but still quite strong. Lump was 6'2 '' and weighed 220 all solid heftiness. Mira was a imagination her bosom was the sizing of small grapefruits. Her red hair appeared to be flames while her freckles were just enticing, this luscious package was on a 5'3 '' build. Her ears .had become more noticeable and cause many fights. I had grown a little as well I was 6'even and weighed 220 and no fat. I was 17.

john mare De Joseph Louis Barrow had become a fat slob and his rule was becoming heavy handed on the the great unwashed of the realm.

One day the elderberry bush called me to his spot and said,"The metre has come the people are repressed and have been taxed till they can hardly buy intellectual nourishment. The City sentry go favor the masses but the palace safety device seems to lean toward brutality.

After listening to the Elder I began to be after. The first affair was a rustling campaign I had my core group start the rumors.

"Have you heard, the really king has come of age, and he is not pleased with his Uncle. He is raising an US Army to rectify his throne.

There were a declamatory number of break-ins at Nobles and merchant base. It seemed odd that it was only the supporters of the trustee who were hit the hardest. A niggling Redheaded Elf paid a visit to the Bramble Wood elves.

A caravan consisting of two coaster wagon pulled by vast conscription sawbuck. Wain one was occupied by the Red headed Elf. The irregular by the virtuoso Elder. The remainder of us walked it took us a week to reach the borderline between Dulciana and Bramble woods. There we stopped and set up camp. We made no overt motion in fact other than a night stick ( mine ) and a faculty ( senior ) we carried no arm. We all were a picayune uncomfortable in the visualise clothes the elderberry bush 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 border we were Two century fifty substantial with more arriving daily. The elderberry bush used his Magic only to provide food for thought for the masses.

We waited at the perimeter for four day. On the sunrise of the 5th day three Elves appeared in front of Mira 's tent. Mira invited them into her tent and sent word to the Elder and I to join her. I entered the tent and stood behind Mira. While awaiting the elderberry bush I observed the Elven political party. Each was blond with hair to the shoulder joint, their noses were almost pointed. The stand out feature of speech was their eyes, they seem to penetrate deeply into the soul of the somebody before them. All three of them were locked onto Mira not even acknowledging that I was even there.

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

Mira spoke,"The rightful power of Dulciana has come of age and seeks an alliance to over throw away the usurper John female horse De Joe Louis. I am Admira cousin to king Felies ruler of Bramble Mrs. Henry Wood. I by my own selection have lived in Dulciana to keep the peace between the two lands."

"The time has come to declare your realisation of the True King of Dulciana and to bring out the treaty of acetylsalicylic acid Bridge which our two countries vowed to support each other."

The trinity imp, none looking to be over twenty, huddled together. Then one stepped forward,"I am Admiran brother of Admira and Cousin to big businessman genus Felis. To my rightfield is Sir Slender Shoot in instruction of the castle Guards. To my left, Prince Felieson, diadem Prince of Bramble Sir Henry Joseph Wood. Heed my lyric we have reluctantly kept our side of meat ot the treaty of acetylsalicylic acid bridge circuit. All though it has been trying, John Mare has continued to raise tariffs for the goods 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 tariff will be set for each demesne imports.

Admiran continued,"How do we sleep with the rightful top executive is prepared to agree and that he is ready."

"return our delegation before the King and all will be made clear."

The elf again huddled together, Admiran stepped forward,"You will let our result before the third gear Sun sets."They turned and left the collapsible shelter an the camp.

"Well what do you imagine, I said as I paced inside the tent.
The elderberry bush as common played his cards close to his chest and Mira said"I guess we will have to wait and see."*******

The Elf relegating wasted no clip 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 unclouded. I think the young man is the true power. Our cousin Admira is to confidant for that not to be the case."

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

Chapter 6


The"treaty of acetylsalicylic acid Bridge"

King Felies leaned back from the table and looked steadily at world-beater Duval De Louis the ruler of Dulciana. They had been discussing the price of the treaty which would prepare their friendship functionary. The terminal codicil of the treaty would be the eventual joining of the two family 's. King Duval had a new digest Grandson. King Felies had a distaff full cousin In the manoeuvre channel the two were bound to each other. She and her mother would live in Dulciana and be raised with the Crown Prince 's son. When he came of age they would be married.

Two years later King Duval and his son were absolutely ... and the grandson was missing. King Felies did the C. H. Best he could with the Treaty. He was still hoping the rightful ruler was still alive. And Now ....

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

*****

Mira had been aware of Rafe 's identity for year. Once when they were swimming in the river she had seen the ribbon and recognized the Dragon of atomic number 79 with green eyes. She kept her silence, 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 flashy noise out side of the tent and masses yelling a caput was shoved into the collapsible shelter and an Elf yelled,"Quickly you have to get across the Bridge. Dulciana 's U. S. Army is on the march."

We all rushed across the bridge deck only to be swallowed up by the Elven ground forces. A team of them took down the collapsible shelter and hitched the black Maria and brought it all across the bridge deck. Then the Elven Army lined their side of meat of the border. At the Bridge itself was a group of Elven Mages Led by the maven Elder.
An Elf walked to the snapper of the nosepiece with a paint brush and bucket of paint, He drew a line three inches encompassing and wrote Dulciana on their side of the parentage and Bramble forest on the other.

In LE than an hour the Dulciana United States Army came into view. Nearer and nearer they came trough they were at the span. The Baron who was leading the U. S. Army walked to the centre of attention of the bridge circuit and was close to stepping over the telephone circuit when the elves on the bridge lowered there Lances toward the Baron 's chest. He stopped and backed up. Only then did he discover the freshly painted border.

The Elven Commander asked the Baron,"What commercial enterprise do you have in Bramble Wood."

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

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

"I am not indisputable of his actual ID but he is one of four street youngster, and as to what he actually did I do n't know. What I do know is he is wanted by the big businessman lavatory Mare De Louis."

The commandant smiled,"As you can see we have near 300 refugees and at least 50 of them fits that family. But first mogul Felies has informed me he does not discern anyone named John Mare De Louis as any thing ... except as a criminal."

"I advise you to turn this ragtag bunch around before My archers lose their metier and unloose the 100 arrows that are aimed at you and yours."“ On the Count of ten My lancers are going to clear this Bridge."

The power began to punt away from the bridge and set up inner circle. He set up a bridge watch at the Dulciana bridge end. The brownie did the same at their end. traffic was not stopped on the Bridge but was closely scrutinized.

A messenger was received at Mira 's collapsible shelter and she was informed that King Felies was ready to experience them.

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

Rafe 's oral cavity dropped extensive open not in disappointment, just surprise.

Mira continued,"You also know the Wizard Elder, The rather small fella is Lonnie punter known as Sneaker. Next to hin is Silas Better known as bean plant, Next to him is Tom also known as Lump. finale but not least is rafter De Joseph Louis Barrow, known as The knocker or Rafe or just RD. The lawful male monarch of Dulciana."

All of his protagonist were mouth agape love never suspecting their friend was a Royal. top executive Felies says, Lashkar-e-Taiba see proof."

Rafe stepped forward and reached inside his tunica and removed the medallion ... The green middle of the gold tartar transfixed all who saw it. All of Rafe 's friends dropped to their knees and bowed before him. He told them to intercept bowing it made him uncomfortable.

"I was raised by The Elder and by mammy Ceil, My mother was Rebecca and my Father was cap Prince Duvalson, Son of King Duval De Louis. Both were killed by assassinator Haver by social club of John the Divine Mare De Louis."

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

"I accept the engagement of Admira, I looked at Mira and she was blushing and smiling, Wedding to take place after I am crowned."

I turned back to big businessman Felies and asked,"Sire what say yee ?"

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

senior 's tarradiddle

"I will first tell ma Ceil"s chronicle. I was folding clothes in a tent out side the village of Collie while my charge Rafter De Louis played on the base. My kept woman Princess Rebecca rushed in and told me john Mare 's men were searching every tent. She said I was to carry Rafter to the elder. She removed the medallion from her neck and placed it on baulk 's neck and told him never ever lose it ..He was three."

"He and I crawled through a tear in the rear of the tent. We slid out and down to the river which was near. I waded out in the river and holding raftman I turned on my binding with rafter between my breast we floated down the river."

"We neared the aspirin Bridge, I directed us to the Dulciana savings bank. We followed the roadway although we stayed in the timber. There were merchants traveling along the road which allowed me to snitch enough food for thought to keep us going. It took us almost two weeks to make our way to the Elder 's sustenance. We arrived near the 60 minutes of noon but waited trough almost dusk before knocking and asking for the Elder."

Elder

"I was enjoying a glass of ale when I heard a pounding on the room access of the keep I was alone my compatriots were all on errands. There was not many of us to start with. I am Mage Sabron but called Elder. Also abiding in the hold 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 woman and a babe, they both were filthy."Yes can I avail you."The woman spoke.

"My schoolmistress Rebecca said that the time would come and we was to come to the sustenance and here we are."
I said,"fountainhead yes you are but who are you and time for what."

The Woman 's case turned red and she stammered and stuttered and then said,"Oh I forgot Rafe show him the ribbon"

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 medallion in it had a drawstring so it kept the medallion covered. Mama Ceil helped May in the kitchen until she came down with the Ague and died I think the boy was about eight. By that fourth dimension he was already the guardian of the debile.

"I knew he had a wizardly background so I began to direct him. To insure he learned everything I also recruited all his friends so they also have been schooled except in magic. I did not try to shape them but allowed them to see the world and to nominate up their on minds. I am majestic to say the weak and downtrodden have always been taken maintenance of by these few. They also learned from the street and learned to bypass the cruel."

"One other thing aspect at him closely. Now the picture that was painted at the signing of the Bayer Bridge. bet close at his Grandfather."

Every one turned to the impression hanging on the paries. It looked like an sr. Rafe. The elder said, That is all I have to say."

B. B. King Felies thought about all that he had been told and all he had seen. He remembered his friend interpreter and was surprised to try that vocalization coming out of this young man.


The King rang for a page and told him make ready rooms for my party. I stopped him and told him that we have over 250 followers at the River I will last out with them, my friends nodded that they agreed.

We departed for the pack. As soon as we arrived the big businessman was asking to speak with me. I met him at the center 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 for certain you were dead and with that thought 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 proper decision will be made. In fact I would bet there will be a lot of soul searching going on."
I heard a noise and looked over my shoulder to see a detail of the Elven Army began lining the River. Their commander walked onto the bridge and Handed the Baron a scroll. He opened it and read aloud.

To privy Mare De Louis,"We the realm of Bramble Sir Henry Joseph Wood do here by tell apart the rightful Billie Jean King of Dulciana'balk De Louis'.

In so doing I King Felies place the army of Bramble Sir Henry Joseph Wood as his to Command.

The is a formal annunciation of War, Not with Dulciana but with the armies of the Usurper whoremaster Mare De Joseph Louis Barrow. You are here by given Five 24-hour interval to answer.

Signed : baron Felies
Ruler of the kingdom of Elves Known as Bramble Wood

*******

The tycoon ordered his men to fall in ... and departed at once ... The Baron called his fastest runner and gave him the scroll to deliver to the Regent.

Upon reaching the crossway, straight was to Dulci, right was to his soil Holdings. mogul Phelps hesitated then called a halt. He called all his police officer to a meeting.

He looked to each one, some had been with him for years and some just a curtly time."Our recollective lost Martin Luther King Jr. rafter De Louis has come of age and is demanding his rightful place, to the dismay of the regent. A few years ago I gave an oath to the Regent."He noticed some make and whisper among them.
"twenty geezerhood ago I also gave my swearword to defend the Crown. Since the Crown belongs with baulk De Louis and not the trustee that is the oath I must honor."

"Any of you who wish to be absolved from your oath to me and wish well to follow the Regent is free to do so. But foremost I wish you to verbalise these Christian Bible to your men. I leave for my menage in one minute. All who wish to reward their oaths can watch over. All who wish to fall out the regent may depart with honor."

The Baron 's Thomas Nelson Page lay a cloak in the ghost of a right Oak. The Baron 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 moment … nothing but secrecy. He nodded off to sleep.

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

The Baron opened his heart to see all his soldiery lined up and prepared to move out on the course to the right field. He stood walked to his horse and said,"Very Well backing UP."He tried to hide his emotion as he brushed a obstinate tear from his eye.

"messenger, lease this content to magnate in wait Rafter De Louis. We the men of Baron Phelps Stand to your right."

Even before the Baron could make his estate of the realm the power of chin-wagging had raised its wretched headland. It had been shouted throughout the country that mogul Phelps Favored the Billie Jean Moffitt King in Waiting. As he rode into the grounds of the Estate there were messengers from his fellow Nobles wishing to confirm his decision. Some were condemning him but about were aligning with him and offering their help.

******

I stepped out of the collapsible shelter to a bam of racket. I was almost stunned, overnight the supporters had increased to over a thousand men and women. There was also a phone line of courier awaiting his attention. One by one he read the content. The lean of support by the Lord was staggering. I was pleasantly surprised to read that Baron Phelps had been the first to issue his support.

I sent message to them all accepting their documentation and asking them to conjoin me for a meeting and to bring in their secondly in bidding as well. The Elves set up tents and supplied nutrient material. We searched through our people and was soon able to fill up the tents with cooks and kitchen help.

noodle and Sneaker began interviewing our masses. It took over two weeks to establish what each was good at. The first and most of import was sentry and Runners. It was a welcome to know we had a kernel group to coach others. They consisted of twelve lancers and eight archers all thanks to the City Guard. They were led by the captain of the guard duty I smiled when I learned they had brought the integral armoury of the urban center Guards. I had the maitre d'hotel set up caller and police squad and set out training.

It was n't long till the ladies were making vests with a gullible Eyed atomic number 79 dragon in the center on a field of blue. I was even more surprised when a sparring was erected and a silk flag of blueing with the same Dragon represented. I never knew where the material came from.

I was most surprised by the want of answer from John maria. I had sent guide into Dulci and awaited their restitution. Days later I had my answer. There was desention in the ranks and mass desertions. It was said he was hanging his own men. I guess you could say there was a trust issue.

According to the talent scout 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 support of the nobleman and the peoples of the soil we had an Army of about 10,000 strong. We knew we would be facing about 30,000 all better armed.

stumblebum surprised us all, he had a real endowment of scheme. He told me we were missing and important item ... Supply contrast. Which were open to Dulci from the South. I assigned him a troop of fifty mounted men and named them Tom 's Raiders. They traversed the international mile to Dulcianas Southern border. They carried few supply, which meant either make successful maraud, live off the land or starve.

******
Tom 's spoiler

Lump, Tom, Lead his raider south never coming in sight of any road except when it was necessity to cross one. They scouted the roadstead entering Dulciana from Langdom to the S and to Arrington to the East. Their quartern day they heard the squeaking of the axles of a heavily loaded Wagon. As the station wagon with five outriders entered the clarification which was ringed by the raiders. When they were completely inside the clearing, including the 4 outriders at the rear..

The Sagittarius the Archer stepped out of the George Herbert Walker Bush with their fore fully drawn. gawk spoke,"Well gentlemen please lay down your artillery and step away from them. You two on the wagon get down. delight lay face down on the ground with arms and stage spread."

Each were checked over and knife and nighttime marijuana cigarette removed from their person. Their hired hand and animal foot were bound. lubber placed two men in the wagon and started it onto Bramble woodwind Border.

"I am sure it will not admit you long to free your self. I suggest you turn back to Langdom and not come back. If you had put up a engagement all of you would now be absolutely and we would throw all regretted it. But none more than you."

clod had given orderliness for the wagon to move as fast as it comfortably could toward the respite of the army. They were also prepared to tantalise like the dickens at the crossroads to Dulci.
He was not aware that there was a squad on watch near the cross road Which escorted them the rest of the way.

Each day they would take in an ingress road and were averaging at least I shipment a week.
Dulciana sent out soldiery to try to protect the ingress supplies. The raiders ambushed them and wiped them out to a man.

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

trick Mare brought in Mages from Drummond which was to the Second Earl of Guilford west We wondered what he was promising them. The Elder had warded our raiders against magic trick. We attacked their back end with arrow then sit away. The Mages were frustrated when their spells returned toward them and they had to go on vindication against their own spells. We found out later that John the Evangelist Mare had not told them anything about the senior supporting us and he knew zilch about me, and that I too knew magic.

*****
With out informing about of my officers or King Felies I left camp with four scouts and Mage Arture. Our architectural plan was to pussyfoot as close as we could to tycoon Ronin 's HQ tent. tycoon Ronin had designated himself as General Ronin.His only thing that qualifed him to be a General was ... he was the richest Noble in the kingdom. Also the most self-important and the to the lowest degree knowledgeable of how to run an army.
His officers were getting very frustrated.

I cast my nous into the tent. As common there was an parameter going on. Captain crisscross of the Palace guards and Major Nells of the Dulciana Army were already at their mentality end. It was impossible to get through to General Ronin that you could not attack some one who was already gone. The General decided they would lead a squad of Calvary buns. Then when the looter slipped in behind they could assail and wipe them out.

When we arrived back at the summer camp, we made our own plans. instead than attacking the rear we honed in on the right flank. We held back a reserve and when his trailing martyrdom came around to attack our plunderer they were met with our reservation and a hail of arrows.

To embarrass them more sneak slipped in and stole the Dulciana Flag. We hoisted it up the spar where our Dragon flag flew. It was flown second to our Dragon.

It would have been simple to engage out General Ronin. But he was their worst enemy so we left him alone.

*****

King Felies was very incensed when he discovered my scouting maraud."What in the world did you mean by leading that scouting party ? Kings do n't lead raids they direct from the back ground."

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

I talked with Mira and Sneaker, Mira had an idea to scare the hell out of Dulciana troops. For three days one tent was a hive of activity and only a certain few were allowed in. Late on the third gear day Mira walked out of the tent and nodded to me. Three of the smaller scouts who were experts in stealth and Sneaker all entered that tent ... nothing else happened. Soon it was forgotten.

*****

The bivouac of tycoon Ronin began to stir ... .Then it turned into a male storm ... Each was holding and looking at a small piece of lambskin. magnate walked out of his tent also holding a firearm of parchment, demanding to know who was responsible for the parchment ....

He looked back down at his which was on a musical composition of rawhide and was around his neck opening. The lambskin had a drawing of a dagger and the words you could be dead ... next time for real. He started screaming where are the sentry duty ... they were found with their throats cut and a piece of parchment held to their chest by a dagger.

For the side by side week there were defection and some worn out soldiers that appeared to possess not slept for awhile. Every dark someone was killed in their nap and top executive Ronin collected another piece of music of parchment.

Before the last voice of the program could be put into play assassin Haver had his try. I began getting reports of a black raiment form fliting in and out of collapsible shelter around camp ... In some typesetter's case there was a body to go along with the written report. Elder immediately said an assassin I added Haver.

I begin to pasture with my mind ... near evening clip I started to pick up hint of Haver. I turned in about 11 pm. At about 2 am I said,"NOW !"

Sneaker removed the back from a lamp and luminance blazed into the unsuspecting eyes of Haver. Elder stepped into the tent and enwraped Haver in magical restraint. Haver tried to call on his head towards me and spit.

I was expecting something of the sort and sent a magical force into his face which cause him to take back what he tried to spit at me. He began to pant and his face began to have a blueish tint and he crumpled.

Elder checked him over and said he was utter. He and I using our deception and not touching the physical structure carried the body to a cairn outside of ingroup which we had prepared earlier in the day. We placed the consistency on the cairn terrier and set the pyre alight. first base we warned everyone in ingroup to outride away and especially not to take a breath the smoke.

Chapter Nine

The two U. S. Army 's had been camped close for weeks each trying to be an irritant to the other. It was almost a war of detrition. But we had architectural plan, and I assume they did too. We just had to be first.

On the inaugural day of Winters gelidity ... Baron Ronin awoke to hush up, he dressed and threw back the tent flutter To detect himself facing Sil Slender Shoot and Silas bonce. It was almost amazing when the balmy verbalize Bean unleashed his confessedly phonation of his stately plenteous baritone voice voice.

"full general Ronin You are surrounded by the personnel of spare Dulci and the Army of Bramble Woods.. For your treasonable human activity you are hereby stripped of all land and titles and exiled with only the wearing apparel on your rachis. Or you will be put to death by hanging ... I almost forgot if you accept selection one ... and ever make up one's mind to refund. alternative two is automatically enforced.

Ex big businessman Ronin was escorted by Tom 's raiders to the molding of Langdom. He was pushed across the border begging for at least a sawbuck ... which he did not get.


With the addition of Baron Phellps army, our Volunteers and the United States Army of Bramble Wood we decided it was time to take the war to John Mare


male monarch Filies called a meeting and after practically treatment we came to a decision ... We wished to prepare them concern as well as to pay. We decided to wee it seem as if we were on parade. We put up a frontal of joyous playing around. As if we had not a concern in the humans. The truth was we had 1000 of mouths to feed.

In each summer camp the elder assigned an learner who fed the scout group by deception with record of piping hot food. Our daily marches were unretentive not starting till near 10 am and stopping almost 4 pm.

On the third day Gospel According to John Mare 's army took the bait. They moved up to round as we would be making encampment for the even. What they did n't expect was before they could get the watchword to attack ... arrow came flying out of the trees all around them.. They lost over a one hundred and sixty men that day and the resignation of fifty more

They thought they had laid the perfect ambush of an unwary chemical group. When in core they had been missing one detail. get-go a number of guide would search out the next nights summer camp earth. Only one would return to act as guide.

Second as fall began to come a flock of about fifty men would peel off into the nighttime. They would go to the adjacent nights camping area and prepare an ambush. When John Lackland Mare 's soldiers moved through they did not realized they were passing with in column inch of our men.

There was a watch kept on their officer and the fire came before he could give his orders to attack the camp. From our positions we were driving them toward the camp where they were met by ... issue three, a well placed radical of lancers.

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


*****

The Clarence Shepard Day Jr. turned into a week before the walls of Dulciana loomed into visual modality The building outside the walls were evacuate

I rode up to the gate"lavatory Mare come out and face up me ... You have been trying to kill me for over 17 years ...."I heard a swishing dissonance and a soldier 's soundbox hit the ground in front of me. I glanced to the side. Admiran was notching another pointer ... he smiled.


We had watch in Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree, not close enough to make an attack of any sort but they were not there for that purpose. They were there to observe and describe. Each scout had a long looking glass and watched and re ported the gathering of trick Mare 's mercenary U. S. Army. Soon we would engage.

Again we used subterfuge … we grew up in that township and all of us make out how to enter and leave without being seen. Again the Wizards hold played an important constituent. In the basement of the bread and butter was a secret passageway that opened into the saddlery room of the barn in the Smithy. The Smithy and corral was just inside the bulwark of the township.

Once inside we could dispel throughout the town. Our first night, Lump, noodle and gym shoe went in checking the memory access. The 2d night each of them led a group of fifteen men each, our stealing battler.

They hit the barracks and the sentry go shanty near the North and S 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 react. This was our manner of harassment for two week. John Mare 's flock were tired but afraid to kip. They were making mistake, just what we were waiting for.

The next affair was to take aim out the guards on the west bulwark, unfold the logic gate and to replete the square with our military personnel all before Gospel According to John mare 's ground forces awakens.


****

toilet mare De Louis awoken to men shouting and the clatter of artillery falling to the ground. He rolled out of bed and looked at his empty table and was instantly angry. That faineant Perdon was previous with his Breakfast again. He pulled his bell chime electric cord angrily three times.

On the 3rd pull his threshold opened ... He was all set to rail against Perdon when he saw that the two men entering his bedroom were armed and their Sashes were the colors of Green and Gold. Not his Red and Black he rushed to his weapon system.

They smiled and one of them said,"By all substance arm thy self Just as Crown Prince raftsman desires you.We are here to escort you to the battle 1000."

John Mare grabbed a lance, his blade and a brace of throwing knives. Thinking to himself,"This kid has never had any grooming with weapons ... What chance does he experience against me, a sword master."

** Truth be known can Mare was not near as soundly as he thought ... I mean seriously if you are practicing with an unstable King just how laborious are you going to try to win. **

bean plant and chunk escorted John Mare to the Battle one thousand. He entered and found himself alone he looked above at the viewing arena ... it was full-of-the-moon of Men, Women and imp. The 1st face he recognized was the chancellor the second the Cardinal.

Chapter Ten.

The room access began to give, John mare drew his steel, he was ready.
He almost burst out laughing ... The Whitney Moore Young Jr. man who entered, he assumed was his nephew, was only armed with a nightstick hanging from a rawhide cord.

"trade good Morning Uncle ... I was told I had to give way you a prospect, Thus I chose to confront you with a baton. Since I do n't wish to kill you, only beat you senseless I thought it only fitting.

bathroom mare 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 steel. Rafe 's nightstick struck like a snake hitting the brass knucks of the paw holding the steel which clattered to the ground. The consultation roared. John Mare was stunned not seeming to realise what had happened.

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

St. John the Apostle mare realized the steel was useless. He lowered the lance he had been holding in his left hand. Rafe was watching his every move. When whoremonger Mare made his thrust, at the endure instant Rafe stepped to the side and flicked out the nightstick it met John Mare 's chin with a cracking sound.

King John female horse was so describe up he did n't seem to realize his jaw was broken. He swept the lance to ward Rafe who stepped back and loosed his nightstick. St. John Mare thought he was prepared and whipped his head back. Again the fulcrum consequence took over and the billystick took the low track. The only thing that saved his manhood is that he had turned his body. The billy club struck his get out thigh bruising it deeply.

Gospel According to John Mare was finding it unmanageable to stand. He retained the shaft but was now using it as a cane. Rafe flicked out the baton again in the way of John Mare 's left articulatio radiocarpea. He retaliated by swinging the lance butt striking Rafe in the rib cage, cracking a couple of ribs. Rafe missed with his flak.

John Mare tried to play along up on his good hazard, perpetrate his dagger and lunged forward. The night stick was already on the way headed for his manhood. John maria 's straight thrust put his headspring in the way and the night pin caught him square in the forehead and down he went.

Rafe waited but there was no movement from trick Mare, Sir Slender Shoot and his medical examination man Fever entered the Yard ,. Fever felt for a pulse and nodded, yes there was a pulse he was just unconscious mind. Slender Shoot called for three men. They trussed John mare up like a Christmas Turkey.

*****

I looked up to the hearing and announced."He will have a average trial,"

I Looked around as they drug bathroom maria to the dungeon."ball carrier take a substance to Langdom, Drummond and Chelsea And any other near by Country we have dealings with, speak to the prime minister, asking them to post a representative. To sit at this trial they must also cause authority to negotiate significance export Tariffs. Also moldiness Represent their land. In my enthronisation and wedding to take place, I turned to the Chancellor and motioned ..."

The Chancellor spoke quickly,"Six week for the trial and in two months for the festivities."

"Also I wish a contrabandist be sent to good deal home plate for a midget voice to be here as well."

clip seemed to hang back even with all that had to be done, The household faculty had the palace to cleanse up and prepare for all the guests. It had been decided that the enthronisation and the marriage would be held in the Court G so that all who wished could attend ... after all I did grow up on the streets.

I made a few appointments, Lonnie/Sneaker to head the intelligence activity corp. Silas/Bean Secretary and Treasurer, Tom/Lump Head of the Palace sentry go and tycoon Phelps Commander general of the regular army of Dulci.

Six very dynamic weeks went by and the Dwarfen spokesperson, Smash Stumpf Foot, had arrived. The trial run began ..."John Lackland maria De Joe Louis You are charged with highschool Treason and Regicide How do you plead."

whoremaster mare stared around the Court room,"How daring you. You have no right wing to try me I am a King ... !"

There was chuckles and noise from the spectator pump. King Felies shouted"S I L E N C E"As acting Judge and a King the quiet was instanious."We will exact that as a not shamed plea."

The foremost attestor was mammy Ciel 's younger sister."My public figure is Myra"

The Chancellor, acting as Prosecutor asked her what she had to bid at this trial.

Myra 's Story :

My Mother had been a Ladies Maid and my older sister was as well. My Mother died in child birth and my sister Ciel raised me. Ciel was Lady maid to Princess Rebekah she spoiled me. I was always hiding and eavesdropping. She would laugh at the things I told her, she thought I was making them up. One day when I was seven and Prince raftman was a infant I overheard John Mare and a man he called Haver Talking."

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

"How do you want it done ?"

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


I did n't empathize what assassinate meant and I got sidetracked and went to wager with my friends. Later I asked my sis what assassinate meant. She asked me why and I told her. She told Princess Rebecca and I had to tell the write up 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 grab a few things and they left the Palace. I never saw them again."Later that evening a messenger brought trick Mare a note saying the King and his Son was dead.

After that John female horse tried to get Crowned Martin Luther King But the redbird refused unless he had the Medallion proving he was the lastly of the mob line.

"John Mare was ruthless he had servants beaten for no cause and he raped the rook ladies including me."

John Mare Leaped up and yelled it was his right hand to rape the women 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 rung for John female horse. It was really a farce as Trials goes. The verdict was known by everybody.

business leader Felis stood and told John maria to rise."John maria De Louis you have been tried and convicted by a court of your Countrymen. You have been found guilty of High perfidy, Regicide as well as later added Rape armorial bearing. I argued vehemently for the Death punishment but soon to be King baulk De Joe Louis argued for a more indulgent judgment of conviction of aliveness in the mines. Smash Stumpf Foot issue him away he is all yours."

John Mare De Joe Louis screamed NO NO as Stumpf human foot placed him in chains.


Chapter 11

I was glad for that part to be over and it seems like everyone was in arrangement. The second John Mare was pulled through the door and it shut behind him. I stepped forward and ...

"ma'am and Gentlemen The Wedding will study spot in Two Weeks from today. One week Later the Coronation will take place."

The wedding ceremony was a frantic rush between beating out barter concession and agreement and trying on Wedding clothes. Finally the day arrived. The hymeneals was held in the City square. This was necessary since I had Promised no one would be turned away.

I had never seen such finery in this urban center and then Mira stepped out escorted by her Padre, The Elder agreed to place upright with me.

We turned and Knelt in front of the Cardinal."We are gathered here together to join these two. pate Prince baulk De Louis and Princess Admira Felies ... .That is the live on I remember till I heard the cardinal said I now pronounce you husband and Wife ... You may kiss your bride.

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

I smiled and gathered her in my weapon and we shared our first candy kiss ... then we disappeared to our chamber which was kept personal.

The reception lasted two full-of-the-moon days and the Chancellor stated well there goes the treasury just to prey the crowd.

The next few sidereal day we finished hammering out the barter agreements. And then it was time.

The Cardinal read the rites of the coronation as Mira and I again knelt before him and then ..."I crown you King Rafter De Louis magnate Of The state of Dulci. He took the treetop from The Elder and placed it upon my head. Then he completed the ritual for Mira. Admira Felies I crown you tabby of The earth of Dulci thus Joining the Two lands of Dulci and Bramble Sir Henry Joseph Wood. May God Bless and Guide you both in your linguistic rule."

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