This should have technically been my 1st completed before my published book, Violet.

This is also my 2nd of 3 version, as my 3rd is lost. I have original and a bad screenplay format from end of 2019 I typed for a contest I entered. My school hates that website and I do not use now. 

Zacarias is to be Zac Efron. As back then my friends and such I asked all saw as their dreamy knight in shining armor. 

I also love the Elder Scrolls Video Game franchise! Morrowind for my XP is my love hate game and top favs. Oblivion recnetly re-realsed and I wish I had a PS5 tp play. Again, as I did my PS3 version a dozen times. Skyrim... My original was bought 11/11/11 with my ex at that time all called us lame and dorks crap. 

Once upon a time, there was an exquisite castle. It was on the edge of a forest surrounded by swamps, meadows, farms and an enormous village. A large rushing river ran beside the castle and through the village. It flowed along the edge of the forest into an ocean far to the South. All sorts of grazing herds resided in the meadows. The swamp was used to create a moat around the castle. Many alligators call that area their home. The season is fall and the leaves just started to change colour and drop to the ground. It is sunny most mornings and rainy in the late afternoons. 

Like many of the kingdoms of this time, the castle is ruled by a King and Queen. King Allanath ruled this area for five decades. As a young boy he vanquished a veracious beast in the meadows. Afterwards, the villagers were able to farm and have not seen anyone else more worthy than him or someone he deems worthy to rule the kingdom. This Kingdom also acts as central rule over the entire land and four other kingdoms that reside on this continent. However, he mainly controls the nearby village and leaves everything else to the other rulers in their areas. The King has two children with his first wife Evelyn. They are divorced and Evelyn lives in a small village deep in the forest to the West. It is often secluded from many of the things happening in the world. The King's first born child is a son. Prince Joshua lives very far away on another continent and says he will never return home. He works with many intellects on new mechanical machinery and experiments. The King's second born child is Princess Cassandria. She is very disobedient of her father. Often, she runs away to her mothers and other places throughout the land. 

The King's armies practice strength with heavy weaponry combat; such as axes and clubs. This was always a mystery because, King Allanath is a master swordsman. The princess has always favored learning a sword, but her father has never allowed it. She has not been allowed to cut her own steaks or put butter on bread and has to have servants do it for her. This started after getting a hold of shears, when she was younger; visiting Shepherd Mountain to get a custom wool garment made. Her hair would be dragging on the ground if it weren't for those shears! Cassandria was often found in the barracks observing the people and equipment. When she was a teenager she would be banished to the tower for poor princess conduct. Often, she would run away and be brought back by guards. One day, as a young adult, she began flirting with the men protecting the castle. The king permits her to be in the barracks, as an adult, to possibly find a husband. She is forbidden from engaging in combat; touching the weapons, wearing any armour and engaging in any combat. In fact, the king makes sure the princess does not di much outside of the castle; besides studies and ways to be a proper bride one day. 

General Andrew Crasious is in charge of King Allanath's armies. He has four sons named Artemis, Arnold, Anthony and Andy. Not one of them has ever won the princesses heart. They all tried on many occasions. Three are in the army and the oldest, Artemis, is a respected mage at one of the five enchanted towers. The tower he was schooled by is on the southern beach and specializes with water magic. King Allanath does not permit magic use within his armies, but has nothing against it. 

War was very common in the land and Cassandria felt one day she would make a great ruler and somehow bring everyone together. The king would prefer his son to return one day and take the thrown, but is pushing his daughter to find a worthy husband to take his place. King Allanath recently married Lady Chanel Lou and the princess had been running away a lot with her father distracted. The king was very worried a threat to the kingdom would capture her. He had a feeling someone was concocting something sinister. She would always find ways to escape past the royal guards. Some guards would intentionally let her leave, believing in her ability to grow into a great leader; like her father. One night, when she was about to get into a boat at the castle harbour, the youngest general's son was waiting for her. 

"You know, I am supposed to arrest you if I see you leaving the castle." Says Andy Crasious. 

"Of course. I know that! I know your not going to." Princess Cassandria smiles at Andy. "Now that your here, I will take your horse instead of this boat. You can tell them I had you pick up my handkerchief that I dropped on the ground. Then, I poked the horse in the side for it to kick you in the head. With it knocking you out cold, I got away with your horse." The princess mounts the horse with Andy's help. 

"Well, you are not going to see my brother if your ditching the boat. So, I will say that I chased you down the river, but think you cut through the village and I lost you. Besides… the Black Knight has been seen around here a lot lately. I am sure he would be watching the fair princess closely. " Andy explains with excitement. 

"Thanks Andy!" Cassandria says. “What do you know of the Black Knight?” 

“I know he took out the entire bandits lair that was requisitioning peoples carts along the roads around the mountains. I also heard he once battled a great conquer if a village in the Southwest that was casting horrific spells on people to do their bidding to take over the land.” Andy says with much emphasis and confidence. “Ooo, there was that time when The Black Knight…” 

In a town to the far North in the past…… 

The Black Knight was walking down a path in the forest. He was ambushed by twenty men with swords, but no armour. The Black Knight had summoned a black sword that matched his armour and struck down all the men. A slash to the left, a slash to the right, a leap up in the air and down at an incoming attacker. Everyone, besides the Knight, was lying on the ground with wounds and in pain. The Black Knight continued forth into the nearby town. It had been in a disarray from people looting and attacking commoners. The Black Knight took a stance and challenged all the bad guys. 

A man attacked out of  a barn with a scythe at the Knight from behind as he passed by. The Knight quickly turned around and countered. Their weapons clashed. The Knight knocked the man back to the ground. He backed scared and ran set when looking into the dark opening of The Black Knights helmet where his eyes should be visible. A group of many other men attacked with swords and pitch forks. The Knight countered. Most of the attackers were knocked back The Black Knight ended up impaling one through the chest. He grabbed his wound and feel to his knees while looking into the Knights helmet. His face could not be seen and the attacker passed out. The Knight removed his sword and quickly reflected burning arrows coming towards him. The rest of the attackers throughout the town fled. The Black Knight searched the entire town. After, the townsfolk has risen in an uproar over the Knight saving them. The Black Knight took a nearby horse and fled the town fast. Along the way, he had entered a dark park of the forest. A pack of Werewolves halted his path. All around they surrounded and the Knights horses reared. The Knight slid off the back as the horse as its head was high in the air. The horse took and the Knight charged at the largest werewolf. It dodged and may other werewolves attacked the Knight. He rolled out of the way and began to slash and strike his sword at the werewolves. Many of them returned to their human forms, bleeding heavily, after the Knight struck his blade through their bodies. One would leap from behind and the Knight would quickly turn around and stab it from underneath the werewolf’s body upwards through its body. The Knight would turn to the side and slam it to the ground. After, he would slam the creatures into the ground and immediately impact another attacking. To the upward right and slightly turning around he managed to injure everything attacking. The pack ran off . 

The Black Knight began to walk the path through the forest. 

Back at King Allanath's castle…… 

“Oh yeah?” Cassandra taunt to Andy with her hands on her hips and standing on her tip toes to make eye contact with him. “What about the time when he was on the beach?” 

On the Eastern beaches of the continent…… 

The Black Knight had been sitting on a rock and looking out over the ocean. Suddenly, a cloud of smoke fills the area. The Knight leaps off the rock and takes a defensive stance. Witches has attempted to strike the Knight and he managed to dodge them on their brooms. A step to the left, a step the right and quick rolls to every side. The smoke cleared and the Knight looks around the area to find a dozen witches, on brooms, surrounding the area. They all begin to laugh and pull put magic wands. The Knight holds his black sword above his head in a horizontal position. After, he raises an open palm beneath the sword. Volcanic rocks create a wall around the Knight. He swiftly smacked the sword and open palm to the ground in front of his feet. All the rocks launched and impaled the witches. They ran off I’m fear. The Knight watched as they fled. Breathe the Knights feet, he was wrapped around both ankles. Octopus tentacles pulled the Knight into the ocean. A tentacle had wiped its arm and the Knight severed it. The Knight fell into the water. More tentacles had wrapped around all of the Knights body. The armour of the Knight went from a black ingenious rock colour to the bright red volcanic colour. The tentacles had released the Knight and he swam to shore. 

Back at King Allanath’s castle…… 

"I will bring your horse back fed and brushed." Says Princess Cassandria. 

“How about the time the Knight vanquished the demons that rose from the tundra?” Andy speaks. 

In the tundra of the land…… 

The Black Knight was riding a horse over flat, open and snow covered land. His horse halts and rears. As this happens, the horse takes some steps back. A geyser erupted in front with much steam. The ground began to shake. Many crack filled the area. Soon after, they broke apart and many skeletons had risen. The Black Knight began to attack them one by one. He could summon his sword out of thin air. The skeletons were defeated easily. One strike and they would fall to the ground disassembled. 

Back at King Allanath’s castle…… 

Cassandria smiles at Andy and grabs ahold of the reins of the horse. 

“How about when…” 

In a town somewhere in the land…… 

The Black Knight had walked into a local tavern. Inside were many drinks and he walked to the counter. Taking a seat, many men had gathered around to taunt him. 

“So, you are the so called Black Knight? You don’t seem so tuff to us. You are rather small!” Says one of the men. The Black Knights stands up. He turns around and punches that man straight in the face. Two other grab the Knights shoulders. Their hand begin to burn and they stumble back. A chair is thrown at him. The Black Knight shakes his head and wiggles his finger in a, you shouldn't of done that manner. The Black Knight swings his right fist to the left and strikes the cheek of one assailant. He strikes his left fist to the right and knocks out another. Someone charges from the front and the Knight uppercuts him in the chin. Three more pile onto the Knight. They fall to the ground. The Knight rolls over and kicks back one of the attacker by his chest. After, her grabs the other two by their shirts. The Knight pulls them close to his face. They become scared, from seeing only darkness in the pave where eyes should be of the Knight  and pull away. The Knight lets them flee. He takes a stand and brushes himself off  

At King Allanath’s castle…… 

"Before you go, I think you are forgetting something?" Asks Andy. 

"What?" Cassandria responds. 

"Your story does not make sense, unless you leave me your handkerchief!" Andy explains with a smile, while looking up at the princess on the horse. 

"I could have picked it up when you were out cold, but just to be safe” The princess reaches into her dress around her chest. “Here!” The princess tosses her handkerchief onto Andy's face and gallops away on the horse into the forest. 

The princess takes the darkest, scariest and roughest paths through the forest. The moon recently was full and she has no worries over monsters lurking about. It was rumored the Elven Kingdom to the northeast had sent an exposition to one of the lakes near her mother's village. They say a magical chest has been found within a cave at the bottom of the lake. Some people living around the water have had magical side affects. She is worried about her mother, cousin and friends in the village. It is not too far from the lake. 

Cassandria arrives at Sun Leaf Village. Candles light up the homes of the villagers and the shops are all closed. It is early in the night, so she decides to stop at the local tavern where her cousin and friend works. It is a family business that her cousin hopes to take over one day; owned by her Aunt and Uncle. The princess stops behind the tavern and gets off Andy's horse. From there, she picks up a stone from the ground and chucks it at a pale sitting against the wall. It makes a sound and some guard dogs begin barking from a covered pen with a two part door that leads to the kitchen of the tavern. 

"Don't worry, I will check to see what they are barking at. Calm down everyone!" Says one of the tavern maidens. Princess Cassandria hops into the pen and crouches down in front of the door leading into the tavern. The maiden opens the top half of the door. "Okay? That looks like one of General Crasious' Sergeants horses. Which means..." The maiden hesitantly begins to take a step back. 

"Surprise!" Cassandria jumps up. 

"Ahgh! How many times have I told you not to do that?" The maiden slams the top half of the door shut. 

"Stasia? How many times have I done that and you still get startled?" Cassandria replies. 

“Ha! Is that Cassandria!” Another bar maiden speak up. The top half of the door opens and the second bar maiden is excitedly looking around. She spots Cassandria crouching down below the door and smiles greatly. 

"This is not fair! It is not always in front of the door! Plus, you know I hate it... and you still do it! Why not go through the front door like a normal person and sit down at the bar and order your meal and be normal for once?" Stasia leans one arm on the bottom half of the door, while pointing the other hand towards Cassandria in a disappointed manner. "Don't answer that! I will! Your going to say, as the princess you can not attract attention and need my help for something you cooked up in your brain." All three women smile at one another.  

“She’s right. You don’t get it!” The second bar maiden speaks. 

"Shut up Asia! She is my cousin!" Stasia gestures to herself. “To me, the princess of this land” Stasia points to Cassandria. “You should be at home right now! Sitting in a nice warm, hot, bubbly, bubble bath tub with all of your servants and glamorous shiny objects around you. Afterwards, you would gracefully walk off to your giant, tall, fluffy and round, royal bed with your silk sheets and fall into dreamland!” Stasia clamps her hand together near her face and pretends to fall asleep. “Such an amazing lifestyle!" She pauses for a moment and looks up in aw at her cousin. Sternly, she points at Cassandria again. "NOT do whatever it is you want to do, but your going to do it anyway!" She grabs a key from inside one of the dogs hair and hands it to the princess. Asia grabs Stasia's shoulders in excitement and encouragement. 

“I wish you would stay and entertain us with stories and glories you have conquered. What will it be tonight?” Asia speaks. 

"Thanks!" The princess hands Stasia a bag of gold with ease. She uses the key to open a lock hidden within much hay on the ground. "Your the best! Here." Cassandria hands a second bag  of gold to her cousin and a third to Asia. "I don't need it and nobody can find the cave still." The princess walks away a few feet and opens a trapdoor to a cellar. "I only scare you or else you would not know it was me!" Cassandra winks at her cousin Stasia. Asia laughs. Stasia crosses her arms. "Sheesh woman! I have no idea how you do it?" Stasia’s shoulders drop some as she catches a fourth bag of gold from below her waist with both of her hands. "Please don't die! Those elves… they will be in here for a drink around midnight. They always reek of something burnt and seem frustrated. Nobody can get through their magical fence without having side affects. I would stay away until daytime. We have made lunch deliveries to their camp and have not seen anything interesting." 

“What ate you talking about?” Asia wraps an arm around Stasia’s  shoulders. “She’s got this! You and I both know we want those pricks to get a taste of their own medicine! You left our how they continue to trash the tavern and think they ate so high and mighty over us.” Asia exclaims! 

"Okay, don't die, we'll go with you to lunch at the camp tomorrow and try not to come home smelling burnt. Got it!" Cassandria takes off on the horse; quickly leaving behind the key and her dress on the ground. 

"Wait! Ugh! I do not want to make a delivery tomorrow!” Stasia shouts to the princess ad he rides of on Andy's horse.  

“Oh well." Asia pats Stasia on the back. Staisa shrugs her shoulders and walks out of the tavern to the trap door, dress and key on the ground. "Yes! I love wearing my best cousin’s clothes! I wonder what some of those soldiers will think when they come in for their drinks tonight?" Stasia picks up the dress, puts the key back in her dogs hair and goes back inside the tavern with her best friend Asia. 

Andy's horse stops suddenly and rears with Princess Cassandria mounted on jt. The princess lowers the hood from her purple cloak; that she is now wearing after her visit at the tavern in Sun Leaf Village. One of the armour pieces on the horse began to glow. The horse slowly walks off the path into the forest. They arrive at the nearby lake’s edge. The horse bows towards the water as a reflection of a man becomes visible. Soon after, the reflection becomes life! The man actually rises and walks out of the lake. 

"Artemis! You are so talented! How did you get the horse under your power?" Ask Cassandria with much excitement and curiosity! 

"Andy and I set you up. I'm working with new ways to save the animals in battles with enchanted objects." Artemis has on a blue mages robe and begins examining the horse. "I was waiting for you inside the lake. I heard some of the elves’ guards say they have seen The Black Knight nearby lately. I really want to see this guy in person. I do not understand the magic people say he uses. It must be enchanting of some sort. You really should not be here. You should head back to your friends at the tavern. Back the way you came!" Artemis points behind the princess and walks towards the horse. "Where are you going anyways?" He looks right at her and grabs the reins of the horse. 

"Where? I am going this way and your delaying that." She fake throws a bag of gold at him and then tosses it below Artemis’ belt. With fast reflexes he catches the bag of gold. She dismounts the horse and her boots clank. She attempts to maneuver around Artemis as he blocks her way. 

"Are you wearing armoured boots? I can enchant them for you. If you can find me a good enough source of magic. Maybe make them quieter for your secrecy?" Artemis shoves the bag of gold back into the princess's chest as she dismounts Andy's horse. "You dropped your gold." 

"Keep it! I do not need it." The princess shoves the bag of gold back to Artemis with her right arm and they both over look the elves camp across the lake. 

"That is unusual. Why are they putting out the campfire?" Artemis asks in confusion. He pulls out a spyglass. "Oh no! Princess you need to leave right now!" He starts to push her away. "They are about to perform..." 

***Poof***  

Artemis disappears. Cassandria picks up the spyglass and can see a magical chest sitting where the fire would be. Many circle around wearing dark cloaks. 

"Perfect! Artemis you will do great! I summoned all my assistants to me. They have all seemed to of disappeared. I did not expect you. Just between you and I, they are not very skilled with magic. Yet... Halt a tick! What are you doing up here around Lake Vine? Aw, I do not care. Your not the one with a misses to report to like me. Ha ha. I was supposed to send a letter back to mine last week, but seem to have lost my pen." An older gentleman with white hair and unusual spectacles was wearing a blue and brown cloak with green trousers. He had on a tan shirt with brown leather suspenders that had a faint glowing and red shine. A pen was resting behind one of his ears. 

"Professor Hartgrowl!" Artemis says. "Are you still searching for fish with mirror coated scales? You know the witches in the west have a whole pond of them?" 

"Shucks, I already bottled a whole bunch of em' and transported em' back to my office. Where Is the venture in catching them yourself. My return was delayed by these elven mages. They "confiscated" my enchanted compass that amplifies magical energy. Then, I think they stole all of my assistants that came here with me. I tried many summoning spells to get at least one of em' and this time, I got you! Which is better because, now you can help me get em' back. Or find out what there up to. I think they found the Chest of Chances." Professor Hartgrowl explains. 

"What is that?" Asks Artemis. 

"Well, it is not supposed to exist, but only exists when... well it is called the chest of chances because..." The professor begins to think, while scratching his head. He and Artemis are on the opposite side of Lake Vine from Cassandria.  

The night sky is clear and lit by stars. The moon reflects over the lake. Many vines surround and inhabit this lake. Fairies live on the northern shore, who originally named the lake. They often hide, so, people do not try to capture them and abuse their abilities. Artemis can see a green glowing energy begin emitting from some people around the chest at the Elven camp. The professor hands a bag of orbs to Artemis.  

"Not sure what the chest really is. Right now, help me place these on the ground. I am going to try and create interference to disrupt their spell. I want to look for my four assistants in the camp." Professor Hartgrowl explains. He and Artemis create a circle on the ground and the professor stands in the center of it. He flattens his hands together and closes his eyes. His white hair begins to stand up. All the orbs begin to float and rotate around him clockwise. Commotion arises at the camp and a green flare launches into the sky. The professor, along with the orbs, fall to the ground. 

"Hello Hartgrowl!" An elf with bronzed skin and hair in bronzed green glowing armour appeared at the center of the circle. He leans down and grabs the professor’s shirt; pulling him up to his face. "As I told you before, this site is under the law of the Elven Elites! Governed by Lord Nelven Lustor. I am the Baronet of his rule and this project. I let you off easily last time. However, I underestimated your powers and shall make great use of you. Baronet Morgath does not negotiate!" With the raise of a staff, all three of them are transported to the camp. The elves had dug a mine underneath the ground. The assistants were bound by magical barriers directly beneath the campfire where the chest is. Artemis and Professor Hartgrowl are now caught in the same magical barrier; hanging with their hands up in the air. 

Back by the lakes shore…… 

Princess Cassandria worries over Artemis' disappearance and begins walking the horse along the lakeside. She does not go far, until she reaches a cluster of thorny vines. They prevent her from continuing. A faint glow becomes noticeable to her eye in the water. She submerges her right arm in the lake and pulls out a giant pink pearl; nearly too big for her hand. Very rare and very magical. It glistens and shines. The princess smiles at her own reflection on the orb. Slowly, she stands up with water still dripping if her hand. She is tapped on the shoulder very faintly and subtlety. 

"Excuse me? May I have that please?" Says a whispering girls voice. 

The princess turns around to be face to face with a pink glowing and glittering fairy. "Of course you may." She replies. She bows handing the pearl to the fairy. It was bigger than her and she lands on top of it. Kneeling down she sprinkles pink glitter and the pearl disappears. 

"Thank you, your highness! Your generosity, beauty and intellect are as rumoured.” The fairy stands with her shoulders back and face forward in curiosity. “Might I ask what it is you are doing here at Lake Vine?" The fairy beings to dance around the air and lands on Cassandria's shoulder. 

"Well, I was on my way to treasure! When my friend found me and disappeared! He is a very talented mage. I am sure he is alright." She replies. “Is there anything I might help you with? Or anything you could tell me about that camp over there. With the elves. Are they of Lord Nelven?” 

"Oh my! Actually princess, I know where your friend is and he is alright... for now. In a few days? Not so sure.” The fairy lays down on top of Cassandria’s head. She kicks her legs in the air and rests her head in the palm of one of her hands with her elbow rested. “I guess you could say the whole situation at the Lake is us fairies fault.” 

“Really? What happened? Please tell me.” Cassandria says while looking up with her eyes. 

“We just did not want to dust that old chest no more and threw it in the lake!” The fairy stands up and begins to dance around Cassandria in the air. “We were told to keep it for one thousand years, but the elder could not remember why. Another thousand years went by, so..." The fairy circles around the princess and stops in front of her face. She leans forward with her butt out and arms to the side with open palms to the ground. “Say… I sense a magic on you.” The fairy begins to examine the princess.  

"Is the chest dangerous?" Cassandria asks. 

"I do not think so. The elder could not open it. He could only increase or absorb magical energy from it and what good does that do us fairies? All of us together could wipe out armies easily, but that is too much work. We got our lives and interests to keep us busy." The fairy yawns and starts to tip toe away through the air. "Oh yeah, I want you to know, I can see the amulet you wear. Its magic suits you well!” The fairy nods her head and approaches the princess’ face. “In fact, since you gave me that pearl I will add a special enchantment to it." The pink fairy sparks her hands and pink magic absorbs into the amulet through the princess’ cloak. "That should protect you from any magical detection. Seeing as the elegant daughter of the handsome and heroic Allanath is known for an undetectable lifestyle.” The fairy winks. “Plus, I added a surprise!"  ***Poof***  

The pink fairy disappears. Cassandria places her hand over the amulet above her cloak. She turns her head to the side and smiles. It turns to a grin and she turns around to look at the camp again. She sees a green flare launch into the sky. 

At the Elven camp...... 

Artemis, Professor Hartgrowl and four of his assistants are floating in a green glow in a circle with some other captives around them. "Ha! He definitely underestimates me! After our last encounter, I prepared for this." The professor's suspenders begin glowing and create a red barrier around his body. He floats off to the side and becomes free from the green barrier. "I am sorry fellas, I need to know more about what is going on before I attempt anything. I assume you want to keep all of your appendages." Says the professor. 

Professor Hartgrowl sneaks up some stairs leading into a cabin. Inside he can over hear Baronet Morgath writing a letter about the exposition.  

“To Lord Nelven. Our attempts today were unsuccessful in opening the chest. However, we were able to acquire ways to use energy from the chest to our gain. Will it drain whatever the chest is for? We are uncertain. Could it help us with other experiments we have failed in back at your palace? Definitely! A few more days and we will bring it back to your kingdom if we are unsuccessful in opening it. I have a plan for tomorrow and enough subjects to aid in the ritual. I will continue with reports to you of our situation.  

Some of the villagers or travelers, ha, or ventures have been too nosy. I have enchanted them as animals and think you will be please with what we bring back to use for other experiments. I have not encountered the Black Knight, but have a plan to lure him in. I know King Allanath’s daughter will be around the area soon. If not, her mother will be easy pray and a simple way to capture her.  

Troop numbers have decreased by seven today. Idiots! This lake has more creatures than we anticipated. We have moved all sleeping arrangements away from the water to avoid any more soldiers being drug beneath the lake.” 

The professor climbs out a window to the camp. He is able to sneak near the chest. Many elves are talking about heading to the nearest tavern for a drink; leaving the chest unattended. Professor Hartgrowl can see two magical pillars to the left and right sides of the chest. They are acting as a conducting liaison between the chest and the barrier imprisoning everyone underground. 

***BOOM***  

A loud explosion is set off and General Drag's army from the Kingdom of Jolopt, across the southern sea to the land, ambushes the camp. Attempting to seize the Chest of Chances! In the midst of everything, the professor bumps into the Baronet. He is angry and raises his staff.  

***BOOM***  

Another loud explosion! Smoke fills most of the camp and hundreds of soldiers clash in. Out of the smoke a knight in igneous rock armour begins battling both sides of soldiers. Many recognize this Knight. Some flee in fear. Others rush in to attack. Others stand and gawk. 

"The Black Knight!" Shouts Baronet Morgath. "Forget you Hartgrowl! I will not pass the chance to defeat the solider rumored to be solid magmatic rock himself! Risen from the volcanic rivers beneath this very land!" The Baronet rushes towards the Black Knight who is battling soldiers from both sides. The knight slashes down one solider and takes out the other with a summoned lava rock by the hand. He kicks back another assailant and swings his sword horizontally; slashing the chests of many soldiers. The Knight summons another lava rock. It is launched into another soldier's chest, knocking him back into two other battling soldiers. They all fall to the ground. With the right hand, the Black Knight turns around fast and grabs the baronet's staff as it is swung towards him. The baronet draws his sword with the right arm and immediately strikes repeatedly in combat against the Black Knight. The Black Knight holds onto the Baronet's staff and holds a defensive stance to black the incoming sword swings. 

Professor Hartgrowl manages to find his orbs and compass. Taking them back to the chest he is able to deactivate the pillars around it. The barrier holding everyone captive underground is deactivated. His assistants and Artemis take part in the battle while, looking for the professor. Hartgrowl decided to try and open the chest. When his hand touches the chest, a magical booby trap was set off and the Baronet was teleported to the chest. In a fury, he stabs the professor through his upper leg and uses his staff to recapture all the mages. The Black Knight rushes to the scene. Jumping onto the chest, the knight makes an attempt to attack Baronet Morgath. The knight raises his left arm with the sword high in the air, but the baronet does not flinch. Everything froze in place, except for the knight. He jumps off the chest and waves his hand in front of the Baronet's face. There was no response and all around him was frozen. A sound is heard. In confusion, he turns around and looks at the chest. It is now cracked open a bit. A gold magical ball appears as the knight kneels beside the chest. 

"Now I remember! The chest will only open with a relic that has been stored within it. I am sure their is a key too. I am the Elder Fairy and this chest has not been opened for over two thousand years. I bow to you noble knight and ask what is your legendary object?" Says an old male fairy. 

The knight points to his heart and raises his sword with the left hand high above his head again. The chest opens all the way and tons of colourful sparks soar out. Inside is a sheathed sword and the knight exchanges weapons. After, he leaves a handful of jewelry inside the chest and places an extravagant ring around the fairy. When the lid is shut, the chest disappears. Before reality returned to normal, the knight took off running into the forest and the fairy zapped him with some gold coloured magic as he faded away. General Drag's army begins to retreat in defeat. Some have been captured with the mages. Baronet Morgath is angry as he watches the Black Knight escape and seeing the chest is now gone! 

In the forest…… 

Some hours pass and dawn is on the midst. Princess Cassandria arrives at the edge of a village. She dismounts her horse and walks it through the village. She passes the tavern her family owns and can see her cousin wearing her dress. It is tied improperly in  the back. But, she doesn’t know the royal knots. Well, her friend or whomever tied it doesn’t. She giggles and throws a bag of gold into the window. She walks away fast and continues to walk through the town. She passes Asia’s house and leaves a bag if gold in. the floor below her window. Eventually, she arrives at her mother and stepfather's home. Cassandria did not expect them to be awake. When she walked in she was shocked! 

"Oh dear! I did not want you to see me like this pumpkin!" The mother exclaims while lowering a hand mirror and setting it on the table. 

"Me? Pumpkin? You are the one with orange ears? How?" The princess asks. "Are those fox ears?" 

"Oh sorry Dria. Just, running through a field of pumpkins sounds so delightful right now. Or maybe chasing a rabbit. I have a tail also!" The mother raises it to the side. "This took more getting used to.” 

The princess rushes in and examines her mother. “How did this happen?” 

“It happened when I was down at the lake the other day; collecting water. Some explosion went off at the elves' camp and I rushed home to find myself like this. I went to bed hoping it would wear off, but it did not. I confronted that clarinet moth bat about it and he only laughed at me. Laughed! I started shaking my fist and he pulled a hair from my tail and the top of my head. After, he tapped me with his staff and I ended up back in town. I sent a letter for a sorcerer to come look. Not sure when he will be here." Explains the mother. 

The princess throws a bag of gold on the table. "I will find out what is going on later today. Hopefully..." Dria says. 

"No, stay away from them. I am sure it will not be permanent and I am getting used to the tail." The mother replies and tickles Dria with her tail. The princess giggles and takes a seat at the table across from her mother. 

"Ummm, ok?" Cassandria says. “I think I should still look into it. Just encase there is some sort of limited time frame clause to make it not permanent.” 

“Yes! Please Dria! I am sick of that tail and your mother is slowly loosing herself. Has she been ranting about something a fox would do?” Dria's stepfather walks into the room. 

“Oh, I am just fine. I have not said anything out of the ordinary.” Evelyn speaks and crosses her arms. 

“Well, yes. Chasing a rabbit in a patch full of pumpkins?” Dria speaks. 

“Rabbit! Pumpkins?” Evelyn jumps on the table on her hands and knees looking around. “Sorry.” She steps off the table and takes a seat. She raises the mirror again and looks at herself. “Maybe, you are right. Let’s all get some sleep and chat in the morning.” Samuel wraps an arm around Evelyn and walks her to their room. Cassandria blows out the candles and climbs a ladder to a loft. She falls into a bed and looks up at a star that can been seen between the roof of the house. With a smile, she falls sleep peacefully. 

While sleeping, Cassandria dreams of a dragon. Black and spiked. She watches it soar above her. After, she sees herself soaring through the air riding the dragon. It begins with ease and they are quickly forced into a stressful combat situation. She can not see the attacker and uses the dragon to maneuver; to not be hit by incoming attacks. Cassandria looks up and sees the moon. It is a crescent and she sees a beam shine down from it to the ground below her. It blinds her and Cassandria. Wakes up. She sits up frantic in her bed. The sun is now out and it is morning. She can hear a rooster crowing. Birds are singing and people can be heard out and about in the town. Cassandria looks out her window and watches the simple folks as themselves. She appreciates the simple life and not being women up by people of her castle. If they saw she was still wearing the same thing as the night before, they would panic and throw her in the tub. Cassandria rarely chose her clothes, how her hair was done or even what she would do in a day back at the castle.  

“Crandall!” A woman shouts. Cassandria watches as a women run out to the street with a dead chicken in her hand. “What is this? I told you not to leave them for me not de feathered and not de gutted.” The woman smacks her husband in the shoulder with a rolling pin. After, she shoves the chicken into his chest. The man grabs it. “The only thing you have to do is bring dinner home and you get lazy! Do this before you spend all day at the tavern with your friends!” The princess giggles. She looks to her left and sees Asia walking to work. Cassandria tosses a rock and hides. Moments later, she rises and watches Asia walking again. This time she went to throw a rock and Asia turns around and points at the princess. She opens her cloak and points to a bag of gold and gives a thumbs up, whole nodding her head, at Cassandria. The princess smiles and gestures her hand in an aw shuck. From there, she gestures Asia to skedaddle on. A dog barks and runs through the street with a group of kids. A little girl stops and looks at Cassandria. She becomes bashful and fiddles with her dress. The princess reaches into her bag and grabs a handful of magic dust. She throws it out the window and points a magic wand at it. Flowers fall through the sky and rain upon the little girl. She picks up many of the flowers and runs off. Other villagers pick up the rest if the flowers and wave or blow kisses to the princess.  

Cassandria climbs down the ladder and enjoys a yummy breakfast with her mother and stepfather. At one point, her mother stopped using a fork and devoured her face into her plate to eat. Her and Samuel laughed and Evelyn snapped out of the magic’s effect in embarrassment. 

After some time, she says her goodbyes and leaves. She walks through the village. The shops are open and many people are out. They all know she is the princess, but do not turn her into her father. When possible, she does what she can to help the people within Sunleaf Village. Being secluded, they often face many hardships of attackers or food going bad. Cassandria has given all of the villagers gold, so they live pretty comfortably or else may have fewer numbers of population. Right now, they are not used to the Elven Elites or any type of armies being so close to them. They have been preventing them from fishing at Lake Vine. The main source of their income and living habits. Many of the villagers stayed out of the forest. Due to too many dangerous creatures. Daytime, was the only time to travel in that area if you wanted to make sure your life was safe. The village received its name, Sunleaf Village, due to the trees that grow in the area. When the sun is out, the leaves shine pretty pastel colours and at night they looked normal green or brown colours; depending on the time of year. Even in the winter most of the trees maintained their leaves with the same magical effect. No one knows why this happens, but travelers often pass through to see the phenomenon. 

King Allanath's patrols pass through Sunleaf Village once a day and the other kingdom's patrols once a week or month; depending on how far they were. Usually, the patrols just updated the bounty posters and do not pay attention to the townsfolk. Occasionally, they would get drunk at the tavern and just happened to of been their when the people needed them. Often, the townsfolk would defend themselves. Magic was not used much in the town, so they stuck with hand held weapons and fire tactics. Lots of magic was stuck to the cities and the mages towers spread throughout the land. However, magical shows were adored and their theaters often had some sort of magical shows every weekend. Something commoners throughout the land. They say only certain people could grasp the art of magic and many try to learn it with being unsuccessful. 

Along the way, the princess tosses bags of gold through windows and at people. She is carrying a bulky bag that is quickly becoming light. She decides to head over to the tavern. Stasia is out front sitting in a rocking chair. Slouched very far with her head below the top of the chair  her chin is dug into her chest. Her arms are rested on both arms of the chair. She looks tired and worn out. 

"Nice dress!" Cassandria says as she discounts Andy’s horse. She drops the reins and places her hands on her hips with a smile on her face. One eyebrow is raised and she stares at her cousin. 

"Not now! I did not get any sleep. Look over there!" Stasia points to a shed next to the tavern covered in bounty posters. "Those stupid elves from the camp sent some people over looking for the Black Knight early this morning. They got really drunk and trashed the place! They were expecting to see him come here or through the village. I just finished cleaning up!" 

"Just make yourself some coffee and you will have energy." Says Cassandria while fanning her hand to her cousin as she approaches the posters on the wall of the shed. 

Stasia walks over to Cassandria and admirers the poster of the Black Knight hanging. A woman passes by and backtracks to admire the poster of the bounty on the Black Knight by the Elven Elites and Lord Nelven Lustor. "Coffee sounds good.” 

“You know what would be good? A night with the Black Knight! I would not care what he looks like under that helmet! If he chose me over any other lady in this land, I would be happy!" The woman rips one of the bounty posters off the wall and places it near her bosoms in her dress. “This one goes on my wall at home. I do not care what my husband says.”   

Stasia and Cassandria look at one another and watch the lady walk off. Stasia places an arm around Cassandria's shoulders. "He once denied an engagement to princess Mollestry! She came all the way from her kingdom far across the ocean to the west. Mollestry rode through town on a Pegasus chariot following the Black Knight in the middle of the night. He denied her proposal and made fun of her! Now, she has a bounty for his head. It is said she will grant the bringer a cottage made of gold and enough jewels to live for more generations than anyone can imagine!" Stasia rips a different poster off the wall and hands it to the lady. "The one you already have is for a live capture! That Baronet guy must be stupid if he thinks he can capture the knight alive if a Mollestry descendant can not dead!" 

“Thank you! More reason to adore this Black Knight fella!” The woman states. 

"Yeah, the baronet is stupid. Although, someone is bound to catch the Black Knight at some point. I hope he gets locked away in my father's dungeons. He is smart enough to escape into the tunnels." Says Cassandria.  

“My word! The princess herself! What a day! I knew visiting my sister was a good thing.” The woman shakes Cassandria’s hand and scurries off in a giddy excitement. “Posters of the Black Knight and encountering royalty!” 

"Well, let us get some new dresses from the tailor in town. Asia!” The princess speaks. 

“What?” Asia looks out a window with a spatula in hand. “Oh! Okay! Give me three minutes!” 

“I will go with you guys to deliver food to the Elven Elites. I want to look at the camp." Cassandria says. 

“Ugh. Alright! Just do not do anything rash. We need to keep the taverns reputation and can not take on the Eleven Elites if they were all to ambush us looking for you.” Stasia tells her cousin and shakes a finger in her face.  

“I will try. If they have any honour, they would take on my father’s armies and leave you alone. The elves have those good honours and would not use petty tactics against commoners.” Cassandria smiles and re looks at the posters for the Black Knight. Asia comes out. Stasia throws her apron on the rocking chair. The three girls take off down the street to the local tailor.  

“Wow! Look at this pretty floral design!” Stasia immediately shouts and rushes to a dress on a stand. 

“Psh! This one is so much better! Look at the lace around the bow on the elbows here!” Asia retaliates. 

“On me! Get them and whatever you want! My birthday is coming up. I know my father will most likely throw a ball. You need to be comfortable and at your best.” Cassandria speaks. 

“Of course, I keep my items to their best just for our fair princess to honour me and her friends on a frequent basis!” The shop keeper adds in. He walks over to a cabinet and open it. “Will you please give me your input on this! I recently had some visitors from the lands to the far east!” The shop keep grabs a portion of the dress and rubs it on his face. “Real silk. Red, as a romance and love! Something I would love for the princess to experience on the day of her birth.” The princess adores the dress and purchases it. She uses magic to shrink it into her bag. The girls leave happy and the shopkeeper is ecstatic. The princess wrote out a letter of acceptance, one time and as many guests, into an function happening at King Allanath’s castle on royal parchment. 

Time passes and it is late morning; nearly noon. Stasia, Asia and Cassandria head to the Elven camp with a small wagon pulled by a miniature donkey and miniature  horse; slowly. By the time they arrive, it is past noon. At the camp, guards are on patrol. The girls are stopped by them at the main entrance to  the  camp. 

"Hey look! It is the drink girls from last night. Oh stop, do not throw another chair out the window!" One of the guards mocks Stasia. 

Asia grins and politely as possible says, "Like she said, last night, chairs are for sitting and not throwing! We have a delivery to make." The girls try to proceed with the cart. 

"Halt!" The other guard stops them and examines the cart's goods. 

"It is just food, we can take it back if you are not hungry." Stasia begins to explain. 

"Go on in." Says one of the guards while grabbing an apple off the cart. As they head to the center of the camp, many people of different sorts start grabbing off the cart and staring at Cassandria. 

"What is wrong? Why are they staring at you? Who cares if you have dirt on your cheek." Stasia and Asia whisper to Cassandria. 

"They recognize me, which is unusual. Usually, someone has raised a weapon to me in threat of turning me into my father. This is different..." Cassandria replies. She stops and gets in the face of a scholar that starts to sketch her on an easel. "What is it? Ya' neva' seen a food cart before?" She says with a different tone of voice while, smashing an egg onto his easel. "Ask a lady before ya' start doodling. Creep!" She flinches towards him with a fist and the scholar bumps into his work bench behind him. She returns to her normal voice and whispers. "See girls, that is how you make them stop. This camp is not so scary. What? A hundred guards here? Fifty mages? Who knows what else? I am not scared. You should not be either.” 

"I wish I could be like you. Only, I do not want anything to do with weapons, battles or any type of conflict. N' ah' not me, nope! Please, let us drop the cart off and we will not have to be back for another couple days. They had thieves steal the last cart." Stasia and Asia drop the reins and starts to unhook the animals. Cassandria can see the Baronet writing inside his cozy cabin to her right and to her left she notices some brutes taunting a mage  beside the lake. Cassandria walks over to intervene with the bullies. On her way she grabs a caldron and a something from her bag. She places a clamped fist into the caldron. 

"How ya' doin' gents? I see ya'... you are sort of ummm... botherin' this intelligent intellect over here and I would ask you stop." Cassandria says in a lower tone of voice. One of the brutes pushes the mage to the ground and puffs out his chest. He approaches the princess and stands tall in front of her, while looking down into her eyes. The other two brutes position themselves around him. 

"My what is a pretty little thing! What ya’ doin’ out here?" The head brute reaches his arm out and places it around Cassandria's shoulders. "Why, you and I should find a cozy place by this lake to get to know one another better?" He walks her to the edge of the lake. The mage attempts to stand up and the other two brutes grab him. "Look at our reflection there." 

"Where?" Cassandria asks. Before the brute can reply she tosses small colourful looking rice into the lake, from out of her fist from the caldron, and smashes the caldron onto the brute's head like a hat. The other two brutes rush in to attack her as she ducks and a bunch of critters from the lake dive out. They start biting all the brutes and Cassandria helps the mage to his feet. The brutes flee the area to the banquet table where Stasia and Asia are finishing unloading the cart. Stasia does not look happy with Cassandria and Asia is encouraging her with a smile and arm gestures. "Will you tell me how to get down below the camp?" Asks Cassandria to the mage. 

"I can not defy the Baronet. He will detect my treachery, but I will tell you to try and get him out here for lunch. You seem skilled with some magic. I will give you some barnyard beans. If someone swallows it, they will become a random farm animal. Or you can smash it then, blow the contents into someone’s face and they will just act like an animal. It will not work on the Baronet or any if the other mages around here." The mage replies while handing her the beans. Then, the mage walks away to the banquet table and takes a bite of a drum stick. 

The princess walks around the camp a looks around at everything. She examines a bunch of cages with animals in them. She becomes sadden recognizing they are naturally animals, but actually humans. She walks to where the Chest of Chances used to be. She looks at the two deactivated pillars. From there, the place where the chest was. She can sense magic in this area. Below, her instincts tell her. She thinks about what it may be and glares at guards and mages passing by here. She notices the cabin where the Baronet resides. She knows that must be a place to enter for answers. Cassandria explores the rest of the camp. At some point, she hears her cousin yelling at some people not to touch her. Cassandria runs over and punches one of the guards. He is knocked out cold. 

“Nice one!” Asia says while nodding her head. 

“Yeah, well my cousin has her belief set with someone already. She has not been asking g for a guy to treat her this way if she had, I would not intervene. If it is something you want you can not deny it when it happens. Even if it is with someone you do not favour.” Cassandria states. To both Stasia and Asia. She says, "I have something for both of you. You will not like it now, you will hate me for a long time, but you will both be rewarded." 

"Uh oh? Should I ask? Maybe, we should just go back to our tavern right now." Stasia begins to walk off and Cassandria stops her. Grabbing her arm the princess pulls out a bag of gold. "Okay, but we better not get hurt and there better not be any trouble. I do not want anyone getting hurt!"  

“Relax! She will always protect us and not do anything without good reason.” Asia reassures Stasia. 

Cassandria walks both of them near the Baronet's cabin. She gives each of then a bean and tells them to eat it. Very quickly Stasia turned into a pig and Asia turned into a rat. The pig starts to jab Cassandria with her snout and the rat climbs up her body to her shoulder. The princess shoves the pig into the Baronet’s cabin and throws the rat, as best possible, towards the Baronet. He is caught off guard and wrestles the rat out of the cabin, while being shoved by the pig. The rat scurries aliens his body to fast for him to garb and the pig is just intruding in his personal areas causing him discomfort. Cassandria sneaks into the cabin. She reads the letter he was writings of the accounts for the camp that day. Plus, some tactics written out to trap her with her mother and other things that upset her. She finds a trap door. She opens and closes it. Then, proceeds down some stairs to find Artemis with others trapped in a magical green field. 

"Princess! Oh thank the sugar cane fields that honour the bakers with sweet sweet delicacies to fatten our tummy tum tums that make us yell yum! My enchantment must of worked!" Artemis shouts with joy. 

"Sort of? I could see your face in one of the armor plates on Andy’s horse. It showed a map of the lake and a marking where the camp was. It also showed me an image of you. I figured you must of been underground with the water dripping from the ceiling in the background. Your brother probably wants his horse back. I said I would have returned it by this morning. It is back in the village. How do I get you down?" The princes begins to examine Artemis and everyone who is trapped. Some of the men become bashful and astonished over seeing the princess in person. 

"Can you open that chest?" Asks Professor Hartgrowl. "My suspenders are in their and can help." The princess opens the chest with a lock pick from her bag and hooks the suspenders around the hoops of the professor's pants. The professor begins glowing and frees himself; again. He rushes over to the chest. "Perfect!" He grabs his orbs and sets them up around the room. "Princess you stand where I was stuck." The professor begins chanting and the orbs circle around everywhere. Everyone who was captured is now free! Everyone is happy and anticipating the next actions. Suddenly, the trap door is forcefully opened and many elven soldiers and elven mages enter. The now freed people all create a wall to protect the princess as a form of shield. 

"What do we have here? Your stupid bar maidens have no tolerance, what so ever, for magic. Well, one was surprising, but the other not at all. It was actually quite amusing to see their aftermath of my magic dispersal spell I placed them on. I  do enjoy women acting as buffoons for me. It was like watching children learning their first rudimentary spells!" The baronet enters the room gloating with a group of mages and soldiers. "Don't let my armour fool you. I am a grandmaster of many forms of magic and I had been kind to your friends. Wait a moment? Get out of my way everyone!" The baronet shoved his followers out of the way. He approaches has Artemis as he squeezes the princess and the professor refuses to move out of the way between them. "Princess Cassandria!" The Baronet bows to her, while being protected by everyone. "What an honour to be in your glorious presence! I am offended that you did not address yourself to me properly in the traditions of hierarchy. Who knew you were the heroic type? Rescuing these people. I get it. The secret life of princess Cassandria is running off to learn magic and ruining hard work of others!" He reaches his hand towards her through Professor Hartgrowl and Artemis. "You know the elves would be very grateful to help mature your talents." The Baronet grabs her left hand and kisses it, while also bowing to the princess. Artemis is jealous and the professor watches with everyone else in an unsure state. 

Cassandria shrugs Artemis off and rips her  hand away from the Baronet. "I am loyal to my father and the people within his kingdom! Along with, anyone in this land who is not evil or causes harm to others! Whatever you are planning, I will endure. If necessary my father's army, along with many others in the land, will rise against you and anything you dish out. I ask you, let these people go and take me until proper negotiations could be made to ease your dispute against them, myself, the local village and of course everything in and around Lake Vine!" The princess confronts the Baronet very close to his face as Artemis tries to hold her hand to pull her away. The Baronet moves his head side to side and then up and down to smell the princes in a strong showing of being attracted to her. 

 Slowly, the Baronet takes a step back and holds his urges to himself. "Ha ha ah ha! Well, look who has on their training crown? Lord Nelven would be admired right now. As far as I am concerned, if nobody knows you are here and all the witnesses are gone, how can your suggestion even be a threat to me? You will never be in charge of any kingdom! You are nothing, but a little girl! Stunning and needing, well, an introduction to adult hood; seductively. I could definitely help you in that manner." The Baronet raises his staff. Cassandria reaches into her dress and begins to cast a spell with her amulet. Artemis, the professor and his assistants dog pile the princess; interrupting her spell. The Baronet smashes his staff directly onto the ground. While laying on the ground, the princess attempts to cast the spell of her amulet again. The magic from the staff and princess' amulet collide. Tons of smoke fills the room. As it disperses, only the baronet and his army were left in the room. The princess, Artemis, Professor Hartgrowl, his assistants and other people caught in the wrong place at the wrong time were left in a dark room. They all take a stand. A rainbow of colored lights fill the room. Many different coloured orbs appeared around the.  

Inside some vines…… 

“Horary!” Lots of cheering and roaring from many normal sized looking fairies surrounded Cassandria, Artemis, Professor Hartgrowl and the other people who were captured by the Baronet. They all have confused looks and were expecting the Baronet to capture them. 

“Princess! I knew I casted the enchantment correctly! You were supposed to be teleported here if someone tried to use enslavement magic on you. Now, your our par-tay slave for the rest of the day! Lucky us! You brought guests! We can have magical fun with them!” Some fairies grab the other people and begin casting fun spells, like coloured hair or dancing funky. They do not mind and begin enjoying themselves. 

“How did you all get so giant?" Asks the princess. 

“We are not giant. Everyone is fairy sized inside the vines. This is our fairy world. Very few non fairies get to step forth in here. So, lets celebrate! My name is Luna! The only rule today is to have lots of fun and not to do anything boring. Like sitting in the corner moping or causing harm to others. That is a big no no in the vines.” The pink fairy and everyone begin dancing. 

“Can we see the elves camp from here? Will they be able to find us? I am sorry  if they show up looking for us.” Asks Cassandria. 

“Of course we can see it! Was that where you were before here? This may be fun. I casted the spell so you would teleport here slightly in the past. Nobody has ever found a way into the vines without the help of a fairy. So, do not worry about those Elven Elites finding us and spoiling are par-tay!” Luna flies over to some hanging vines and tugs down on one. The vines open like a curtain and the camp can be seen across the lake. A bolt of green lighting illuminates the sky. Soon after, a loud crash of thunder emits! Luna shrugs her shoulders and closes the vines. Everyone continues to have fun and celebrate! 

"Cassandria, may I have a word with you?” The elder fairy gestures for the princess to come near. “I consider you as much in control of the kingdom as your father." The elder fairy walks away with the princess into another room. Artemis attempts to follow, but is forced away by magic to Luna who takes his hands and dances with him. "My dear, just like us fairies you love treasure. I know you have been to the cavern of gold numerous times. I have seen you there. Did you know it rains gold coins once a week inside there? I am very proud of your actions and hope you continue them. One day, you will be ruler of this land. However, I am concerned with some of your actions lately. I think you should avoid dangerous situations. That way you can take charge one day." The elder fairy looks into the princess' eyes with concern. After, he walks over to a cabinet and opens it. Inside is many magically enchanted jewelry, potion bottles, small bags and a dagger. The center of the cabinet had an oval mirror. "These earrings allow me to see into the future. It is not always clear how far into the future, but I have seen yours and know some bad things are going to happen if you pester that Baronet guy." 

"I am not pestering him. I just had to save my friend and the other people. Plus, my mom is turning into a fox and I know his magic is responsible." Cassandria explains. 

"Do not try to lead me astray. Luna tries that almost every day. I will give you some human dust for your mother." The elder grabs a small bag and hands it to the princess. "Just try to promise me you will go back home, focus on what your father wants and stop the mischief in the middle of the night! The events shown by the earrings can be prevented. I also want you to give this dagger to a heroic knight you will encounter soon. He will need it to avoid a catastrophe." Says the elder fairy to the princess while leaning on a desk between him and the princess. 

"What sort of catastrophe? I see it is enchanted." Says Cassandria while placing both items in her bag. 

"Not for me to say. I will say the knight will refuse it and you will need to convince him otherwise." Explains the elder fairy. "Let us return to the party!" 

King Allanath's Castle...... 

King Allanath is sitting in the throne room next to his wife Chanel Lou. Their thrones are at the top of a flight of stairs. The room has many large stain glass windows that are large enough for a dragon to bust through. Six large pillars, made of marble, hold  up the ceiling. In the center of the ceiling is a giant mural of young Allanath slaying the beast that influenced this kingdom to be born. Before this ground was an empty meadow. The king is upset his daughter is not at the castle and ventured out. He and the queen were in regal attire and had on many jewels. A bard has arrived, by carriage, and asked for the presence of the King and Queen. They await his presence.  

***Tra-la la da da da dah***  

The bard strums a lute. “I am a bard who is large and not very good at taking charge. I set out from a tower and walked through fields of flowers. I reached a sea and could not believe! When I landed, how different were the trees! Without getting stranded I found my way here. Took out a few bandits without any fears. The great King Allanath and Queen Chanel Lou were gracious to grant me their ears! The glorious Zacarias Efru sends you his, how-do-you-dos? Far to the east, spiders began to feast. With no effort he vanquished every last beast. Zacarias wishes to meet your daughter. Known to make men’s hearts slaughter. Will you grant us a grand ball for all in the land? He loves a challenge and needs competition to win her hand!" Sings the bard. 

"My daughter’s birthday is near. I don’t think competition is what your knight needs to fear. Winning her heart or craving her from the start, will not be what keeps them apart. She is her own free spirit. One that will not always hear it. He may have his chance. With a dance. Her birthday is near and she will be here! I will make preparations at once! He will need to have a new spunk. One that my daughter has not seen. A meeting with worthy bachelors, is a grand idea indeed! The choice shall be her's!" Replies King Allanath. "You may stay in our west tower's suite for suggesting the idea." The bard leaves and enters a carriage. Inside Zacarias was waiting. The bard explains the king’s words and Zacarias mentions the princess' mother lives in a village not to far. They proceed there to find her. 

Somewhere in the Forrest, not to far from Lake Vine...... 

Three thugs, Patrica, Tori and Ricco, were moping around an campfire pit. No fire was lit and they had a carriage home near it. They stole it from the gypsies. As trolls, they hated the gypsies for cursing many of their kind during a war many years ago between them. These three trolls are well known trouble makers. They do not kill, but usually ransacked people's camps and homes. Typically, they tie up their victims and leave them to fend for themselves. Suddenly a bag of gold drops between the three of them where a fore would be lit in the pit. They all lunge forth and begin squabbling over who gets to keep it. Two more bags drop in. Each troll is now hugging their bag of loot. 

"There is plenty to go around and more if you can do a simple job for me." Says the Baronet from an ominous shadow beneath a tree. He has a fox attached to a rope that is hooked to a belt around his armour. Their is also a muzzle around the fox's snout. "You dislike the people of Sunleaf Village, do you not?" 

"Job? Such as? We are thugs. No match for elves like you. What could you possibly need our help with? Can you not just use magic of some sort and snap your fingers to get the job done? We are not allowed in Sunleaf no more. Why would we risk ourselves to a dungeon or hanging?" Says the leader Patrica. She is middle aged and has grey messy hair. 

In Sun Leaf Village...... 

The Tavern blows up! The village is forced into chaos! The three trolls, Patrica, Tori and Ricco, are destroying the town and harming some of the villagers. To them they are having fun and do not care what everyone else thinks. Some people rise up to dismiss their ransacking. In failure, they are quickly dismissed and run away in fear. All the trolls have fancy eleven weapons. 

In the vines...... 

The fairies and everyone hear the explosion. They all rush to the window. 

"Luna! May we please leave? Artemis and I need to check on my mom!" Asks Cassandria. Luna nods her head and rubs her hands together. With a pink zap, Artemis and the princess are transported to the center of Sunleaf Village. The sun is setting and the orange sky is now filling with black smoke. 

"Dria! Your mom was taken by that Baronet guy shortly after you left this morning. The spell has not worn off yet and she is an actual fox now! I think the old lady has her." Says her stepfather Samuel. 

"Hey! My mother is not old! You are an old man!" Says Ricco as he tosses a Molotov onto the bakery. He is on a horse and charges at the princess. She and Artemis dodge one direction as Samuel dodges in the opposite direction. All fall to the ground. 

"I will find her." The princess stands fast and takes off running. Artemis stands and hopes Samuel up. More explosions erupt in the village. Artemis casts a spell on Ricco as he charges at the princess again. Ricco becomes tied up and falls in the back of a cart with pig manure. Another explosion from the tavern sets off and Tori was flown back into a steel plated horse; knocking her out cold. Artemis ties her up and drags the two goons to the Tavern. He casts spells to extinguish the flames around the village. Cassandria searches around the tavern. Her cousin, Aunt and Uncle were safe in the cellar with a few towns people. 

"Dria!" Evelyn shouts. 

"Shut your mouth!" Patrica strolls out on a horse holding a fox and tugs at the muzzle. "This is not a family reunion, it is a family ruining!" 

"Dria just run and do not give into these scoundrels. I do not think the fox spell will go away!" Evelyn shouts while being hung upside down by her tail. "Ouch! Is holding me like this necessary?" 

"No!" Cassandria shouts. Patrica takes off towards the woods on the horse. The horse does not go to far when it halts and whinnies from a crumbling building falling in front of it. Patrica urges the horse to change directions. Artemis zooms in on his brother's horse and grabs Cassandria's hand; helping her onto the horse behind him. "Quick Artemis! We have to catch up to her and rescue my mom!" They begin chasing Patrica and a carriage becomes visible on the road ahead. As Patrica nears the oncoming carriage, the door is swung open and a guy leaps out. He tackles Patrica off the horse onto the ground. He picks up the fox and removes the muzzle. 

"Mom!" Cassandria shouts. Andy’s horse halts and the princess jumps off fast. Artemis also removes himself from atop the horse and ties up Patrica to a nearby tree. 

"Dria, this robust gentleman saved me! Please reward him." Evelyn says. 

"No reward is needed. I am Zacarias Efru!" He sets the fox down and grabs the princess' left hand. He lowered his body, slightly, and kisses her hand. "This is reward enough. To make it more grand, may I have the rest of the evening with you? I hear the lake near here is wondrous in the moonlight." Asks Zacarias. Cassandria takes her hand from him and pulls out the bag the elder fairy gave her. She sprinkles some of the dust over her mom's fox head.  

***Poof***  

Evelyn is human again. Cassandria hugs her mother. 

"Sorry Zacarias, but the princess does not engage in romantic affairs. I can only seem to see her if she is up to mischievous deeds." Answers Artemis with a jealous tone to Zacarias. 

"Then, as a valiant knight, may I offer my blade to you?" Says Zacarias, while taking a knee and bowing his head. His hand is over his heart and other arm rested on his knee. 

"She does not need at knight." Answers Artemis. 

"I do have a task someone as yourself may help with." Replies Cassandria. 

"What? Such as?" Artemis says in jealousy and confusion. 

"I need your help too, Artemis. Do not be jealous. Every great ruler needs a knight. I shall name you Sir Zacarias Efru." Cassandria uses the dagger the elder fairy gave her to knight Zacarias. “Your actions have been positive and selfless. Continue tour seeds and gain my favour in the near future. Although, I think the Black Knight is more powerful. But, he is not applicable for my task in hand. Artemis, kneel! please. I name you my court wizard." Says Cassandria as she conducts ritual to claim boy guys into her rule. Artemis is speechless and Zacarias is in awe over the princess. "The Baronet has some of my mom's hair. We need to destroy it so he does not conduct any more spells on her. Zacarias, will you please carry this dagger into battle on my behalf? I know it probably is not as fierce as your current weapon." 

"I am honored by the tittle you presented me, but I can not wield this dagger. Unless, you grant me a kiss. Perhaps true loves first? I know my heart is still beating over this first meeting." Says Zacarias stands with his hand still over his heart and in disconnected eye contact with the princess. 

"I am sorry, but I decline. You are most welcome of the tittle as long as you hold up my expectations. Love is something, I believe, is developed and not just at first sight. That seems like work of a spell. You do not know me and I do not know you. Only time will progress or suppress our true nature over one another. Perhaps another time you shall accept this dagger. Now, to make sure my mom does not become a fox again and to help others cursed by the Baronet's enchantment." Replies Cassandria and she turns around to not face Zacarias and Artemis. 

"Oh my! I do not want to be a fox again! Or something worse! I am going home to enjoy myself like this. Just encase. Thank you, all, for saving me. Please be careful." Says Evelyn and giving her daughter a hug. Then, she walks back to the village. 

"Do I not get a gift? I will gladly accept the dagger." Asks Artemis in a jealous and anticipated tone. 

"I am sorry Artemis.” Cassandria turns around and smiles at Artemis. She walks beside him; between he and Zacarias. “When I find a suitable gift, I shall present it to you. This dagger is meant for a knight and I will not surrender it to anyone else." Says Cassandria as she pats Artemis on the back and walks over to the horses. "Let us go to the camp." She jumps on the back of one of the horses pulling Zacarias’ carriage. Artemis mounts his brothers and is jealous of Zacarias riding next to the princess on the other horse pulling the carriage.  

“Do not forget about me! The bard, Ye Joe Free!” Says the bard while leaning out of the carriage window.  

“I will take the carriage to the tavern for a drink. I am sure you will do fine without me.” Speaks the bard. Zacarias grabs the princess’ arm and pulls her onto his horse. She stumbles and resists. He grabs her ankle to prevent her from falling. The two look ag one another.  

Artemis clears his throat. “If you like, princess, you may ride with me if this gentleman is not to your liking.” He says. After, the bard unhooks the horse from the carriage.  

“I will be fine.” The princess tugs her ankle and throws her dress. She rotates around and grabs the reins of the horse. Zacarias reaches around and grabs the reins as close possible to Cassandria’s hands. She quickly flicks the reins and squeezes the sides of the horse. It whinnies and gallops off fast. 

“Hey! Wait for me!” Shouts Artemis, as he gallops off behind Zacarias and Cassandria. 

“Where are you from? What are you doing here?” Asks the princess. 

Zacarias grabs her wrist and places another on her hip. He leans in close to her neck. “authors photo does not do you just; compared to in person.” 

“You read one of my books?” The princess turns and looks at Zacarias and quickly back to steer the horse. 

“One? I anticipate to read the rest.” Zacarias grabs the reins out of the princess’ hands and has the horse jump over trees and rocks through the forest to lose Artemis. Not to much time passes and they are now alone. He halts to the horse to walk. “I think your style of writing is incredible and really enjoy getting lost in your storytelling. I only wish I could read faster and could give you my full input in the one I am reading.” 

“What one are you reading? How could my book have brought you here? If you have not read it entirely.” Asks the princess. 

“Well, the copy I have is special. Part of me does not want to tell you in this situation, but I can sense you could handle it. My book is partially ruined. During a battle, your book fell off a ransacked cart in a cave. The owner, he had fallen to some spiders. I eliminated them all. When the area was clear, I searched the cart. Before doing this, your book was lying on ground with the skeletal remains of a man. Your picture completely mesmerized me. There was a handwritten message on the opposing page.” Zacarias begins to tell the princess. 

“Wait? Cart? Message? I… I have only written in so many books. I remember each one.” The princess looks down in despair. He lip trembles slightly and Zacarias wraps his arms around her. “Merchant Marvin. Marvelous Meticulous Merchandise for the Many, Mischievous and Marry.” 

“Yes… did you know him well?” Zacarias asks. 

The princess removes his arms from her and gallops the horse off fast. “I have many things from his cart and now know why he had not ventured to our castle in quite some time. He will be missed. I ask that I may have the book I gave him. I will give you another copy.” Cassandria pulls on the reins and causes the horse to rear. She shoves Zacarias off and dismounted after. 

“About time! I was beginning to worry. Please do not desert me again!” Artemis walks over to Zacarias and lands him a hand to help him stand to his feet. He leans in and whispers to Zacarias. “What did you do? Why is she in a maudlin mood? She did not push you off that horse in a manner of being disrespectful towards her.” 

“It is alright Artemis.” Cassandria turns around and faces the guys. “You should know too. Marvin is no longer alive.” 

“Wha?” Artemis takes a seat on a tree that has fallen over. He grabs some hair on top of his head. “He was the only one I knew of to get teeth of a hydra from. Where on earth will I find them now? He had a birthday coming up and I had the perfect gift for him already planned out.” 

“Hydra teeth? Why not extract them yourself?” Gloats Zacarias. 

“Yeah! Funny!” Artemis stands up and points to himself. “Do I look like the heroic adventurous type? I am nothing like you. I am sure you would take on anything that comes your way.” 

“Hey nobody was judging. Hydras regrow more heads every time you chop one off. Just take them from a head already lying on the ground.” Zacarias explains. 

“I am still not the one to be brave enough to do that. Besides, we don’t have any Hydra here. That means you must be from the land across the eastern sea?” Artemis asks. “What are you doing here?” 

“Enough, you can be best friends later. Right now, we should focus on the task at hand. I feel we may be caught if we linger here too long. I… I sense something.” Cassandria closes her eyes and begins to listen. From there, she takes a few steps and bumps into a magical barrier. Artemis quickly pulls out a wand and pulls the princess back. She falls to her butt on the ground. “Thanks Artemis!” 

“You can do that and call yourself a coward and un heroic? Perhaps you need to learn who you really are.” Zacarias attempts to help the princess stand and she refuses. As she stands up she looks across the camp with Artemis’ spyglass he had left behind before. 

 "Ugh, it is those dumb brutes from the other day." Cassandria says in disgust. "It looks like they are guarding something." 

"Do not worry! Some magic will do. How about some sleeping powder?" Says Artemis while pulling out small pouches. “Now a counter spell to not be detected by this barrier.” He taps the left and right of his shoulder then waves his hand in front if his face down his body. Artemis repeated these gestures on Zacarias. They can see a locked chest that one of the brutes is sitting on. The other two patrol the area close by. 

"Princess you should stay here. Artemis and I will go alone." Zacarias snatches both pouches from everyone's hands. 

"Wait, do you know how to use those?" Artemis whispers loudly and follows behind Zacarias.  

“What about me?” Cassandria whispers loudly. She looks at the barrier and places a hand near it. She pulls her hand back before becoming caught in it. Artemis ducts behind one of the brutes and drops some powder on his face. Part of the barrier disperses. Zacarias successfully put the other two brutes to sleep and the princess rushes over. She taps one of the brutes and he face plants to the ground. 

Zacarias moves near the princess. "Hey! You should stay back." He looks down towards her and gets lost in a gaze over her hair. It is naturally long and curly with an auburn gold shine. He grabs a lock of hair and examines it. 

"This is not the actual camp and not as dangerous. I think we actually found what we need." Says Cassandria. "Please do not cut it." 

"I would do no such thing. Is that normally what happens?" Zacarias grabs more hair. 

“There is a law decreed by King Allanath,  that anyone who causes harm to the princess is to be deceased. Running her hair, you will be thrown into the dungeon.” Artemis speaks. 

“Over hair?” Zacarias asks with a puzzled look. 

“Yes, to preserve her appearance and prevent anyone from using it. Just the Baronet is doing with her mother.” Artemis explains. 

"Yeah and my father examines it often. Ever since I cut it as a kid." Cassandria smiles and turns towards Zacarias. "You are not the first to awe over my hair." She rubs his cheek with her hand and walks away slowly with hair falling through his fingers. 

Artemis uses a spell to open the chest. Inside is an amulet with Evelyn's hair and other people's hair attached to it. The princess smashes the amulet and a small explosion of magic fills the area. Afterwards, she ignites a fire to destroy the hairs with a magic wand. 

“When did you learn fire spells? I thought I was the only one teaching you magic. I only know the ones the Water Towers has to provide to me.” Artemis crosses his arms in disappointment. 

“Hush. Jealous, jealous, jealous. There are more than just the towers in which to learn magic. How about a book? Is that a fair enough answer for you?” Cassandria smiles at Artemis. Some of the animals in the area turn into humans. The three had released everything that was caged up.  

"Princess, maybe you should have let me do that. We triggered a hidden magical alarm! Everyone run!" Artemis speaks in fear. 

"Very clever, Artemis!" Says the Baronet. He appears with rage on his face next to the chest. "I could always use someone as talented as you in my mages circle." 

"Never! I already took part in her Ladyship, Cassandria's, Knighting ceremony anyways." Replies Artemis. 

"Ha ah ha ha! Cassandria is nothing but a princess meant to be Queen with a great man. If there was a suitable elven bachelor, old enough, she would be forced to wed him. She will never be in charge of these lands. I have armies ready to march against her when or if that day ever comes." Says Baronet Morgath. He raises his staff and green lightning begins emitting. Zacarias takes to combat with the Baronet as the princess and Artemis attempt to run off. Zacarias had drew a claymore and was swinging it hard at the Baronet’s staff. The two grined and jumped repeatedly dodging one another. Some soldiers and mages had appeared in the area to help defend the camp. 

“Run princess!” Shouts Zacarias. 

Cassandria drops a bunch of dust and a cloud of smoke appears. As it dispersed, princess Cassandria was no where to be seen. Artemis casted some spells and continued to fight. "Stupid weaklings! I want the princess!" Says the baronet. He knocks everyone to the ground with a spell from his staff. He places the staff behind him and draws his sword. It is a long blade made of bones of some sort. He charges Zacarias. They clash close to the face.  

"Why do you want the princess? Why keep her mother's hair? Why have armies prepared to fight against her? She is no elf. Why would you care of her rein? I think your up to no good!" Shouts Zacarias. He and the Baronet seem evenly matched. With every strike of their swords recoiling off one another, they begin to hit more fiercely. Artemis watches from a distance. He used magic to fend off the soldiers and mages that attacked. 

"Oh please! Like you truly care about the princess? I have watched and heard about every guy, over the last decade, claim to be in it for her heart. But, in reality, they just want to be king! Just like you!" The Baronet shouts and casts a spell for his sword to illuminate lightning from around the blade. Green burn marks are staining surfaces. "I will admit, her starting a court was clever. But, it will do her no good as long as her father sits on the thrown. Why do you wish to be king?" 

Zacarias dodges the lighting enchanted sword. "I actually do not know if I could be king! I had no idea she was a princess. Until, reaching this land. I found one of her books in a cave I cleared out of spiders infesting our land." The enchanted sword is keeping Zacarias away and from getting close to the Baronet. 

"I heard about that." The Baronet stops for a moment and enjoys some memories. "Arachnids are remarkable! If I could have had a sample of their venom... They were larger than humans? The largest ever recorded." The Baronet dodges an attempt by Zacarias to knock him out. 

"Larger than trees! I cleared out the hive. To save humanity throughout our land and potentially othes. What would you do with their venom?" Asks Zacarias. 

"Well, I am a grandmaster in many forms of magic. I can use it to become the spider, see into its memories or reanimate it. I am sure you use it to work as a disintegrator on armour or weapons. I bet you wish you had your gear right now. But, it still wouldn't be enough." Says the Baronet amusingly. "Your not even a match for the Black Knight!"  

*** Smash *** 

A rock breaks on the ground between Zacarias and the Baronet as they were about to clash. The Black Knight appears standing on a table and wielding a blade that shined like the moon. It had two crescent shaped around the handle; acting as guard quillions. The knight slashes at the baronet first, who dodges and stabs at Zacarias. The three now battle through the camp. Slashing, bashing and clashing emit from their weapons. The baronet stops and summons his staff. Simultaneously, Zacarias and the Black Knight swipe at the Baronet. He casts a spell with his staff and launches them back. The knight summons lava rocks and retaliates. The baronet deflects them with his sword and staff. He casts a spell on Zacarias that makes him hang upside down. The Black Knight's armour reflects the magic and his sword swings in for a strike. The Baronet whistles and suddenly mages appear all around them! They begin chanting. A ring appears on the ground and starts to glow. The knight's legs are pulled through the ground and he falls forward; trying to swim out of the quicksand like ground swallowing him. The ring disappears and the Baronet whacks the knight on his neck like a baseball with all his might using his staff.  

"Is the knight beneath the armour as valiant as his weapons and accessories?" Asks the Baronet. 

The Black Knight falls back. His legs break through the dirt and are no longer stuck. The Baronet stands on the knight and smashes his staff on his neck. A bolt of green lighting strikes. The Black Knight's armour becomes cracked! Zacarias throws his claymore; knocking the Baronet down. The knight stands and grabs Zacarias' arm. His arm glows with red fire and pulls Zacarias down from the air; breaking the Baronet’s enchantment. Zacarias retrieves his sword and stances towards the knight. The knight casts a spell sending them both to outside the camp. 

Zacarias falls to the ground. "Wait!" The Black Knight launches a lava rock gently towards Zacarias, who catches it, and takes off running into the dark deep woods. He casts another teleporting spell from within a smoke cloud and disappears. "Coward!" Zacarias screams and stands to his feet looking around. 

Zacarias runs towards lake vine through the forest. He bumps into Artemis.  

“Where is Cassandria? Aw, don’t answer.” Artemis grabs a hair from Zacarias’ shoulder. It was barely sticking up from behind. As he pulled it towards him, it quickly became a couple feet long. He grabs the other end of the hair and wraps it around his finger. From there, Artemis starts swooping his hair around his hair wrapped finger. The hair glows gold and red. Soon after, a magical trail emitted from his finger through the forest. “I think she is back at Sunleaf Village."  

“That… is cool!” Zacarias says in amazement. “Can you do that with any hair?” The two begin walking. Artemis pulls out a wand and casts a spell.  

“No. But, the princess’ hair is special. Another reason King Allanath has the rule against people messing with her hair. If they found out… who know! A witch tried to cast a spell to make sure the princess would never cut it and, well, it may have worked, but also magically embedded her roots and strands. The princess’ hair is not actually dead. Unlike other hair that dies not to far from the roots where they sprout.” Andy’s horse appears and walks beside them. “Good boy, Tantivy!” Artemis grabs a sugar cube from a pocket in his cloak and feeds the horse, while scratching its ears.  

“Wow. I do not know any magic. Well, a few pranks and gags, but nothing useful or harmful. Ye has tried to teach me some thing, but I am best at using my strengths and swords.” Zacarias speaks. They follow the magical trail back to Sunleaf Village.  

“It is not something everyone can grasp. I am quite the opposite as you. In fact, I envy you abilities of a warrior. My father is King Allanath’s general. My whole life he taught me and my three brothers so many military tactics and techniques. I always failed. My mother died young and is not the same for my brothers. My wand is actually her's. King Allanath does not permit magic in his army, but my father never stopped me from using it. One day,  when my brother’s were all piled on top of me in our weekly wrestling match, my father crouch down and handed me this wand.” Artemis points the wand in the air above his head. “He said, Artemis, my son, we are talented in our own ways. Perhaps your path does not lead the same as your brothers and I. Why do you not travel to any of the magic towers you wish and see how your heart feel then.” Artemis circles the wand around with his wrist and an image of the Water Tower appears. “I stood up and did just this. My father nearly cried and hugged my tightly. I could not breath and he set me down. He looked me in the eyes with a hand on my shoulder and said that is where he met my mother. I was just a teenager, but the tower welcomed me and told me many stories of my mother as I learned all sorts of things. I would visit my father and brothers every week. The princess was often causing trouble back then. When she found out if my magic, she would often ask for me to show her something. When she became older, I am a few years higher than age to her, I began teaching her stuff. At first, I didn’t want to, but she always knows how to instigate, convince or bribe me. To this day, I still get jealous of her fascination towards the armory being greater than magic and her spending tons of time with my brothers and father. Never tell the king, but they have been training her almost as long as I have been teaching her magic. My father feels the princess needs to be able to defend herself if we are not there for her. She gets into so much mischief and in these recent years, she has been so mysterious. I used to know everything about her. She would tell me about all her ventures and getting caught. Lately… I am not sure.” 

“Wow, you really care for her.” Zacarias says with a feeling of what Artemis is projecting. 

“Yeah! I mean, I do not want to marry her or want to be kind. No way! I just miss how open she used to be and it is driving me crazy how secretive she is becoming. Magic is dangerous and some of the things she does, I have no clue how she learned it. Other things worry me with whom she may be visiting to learn or obtain some of her skills. I worry she may be caught one day and unable to weasel herself out of it. The head mages at all of the towers say something throughout the land is going to shift it soon. A powerful magic of some sort.” 

“A war perhaps? The Baronet Morgath seems highly skilled in magic. “I thought King Allanath was I  charge of all this land.” 

“Sort of. We have many kingdoms in this land. Some with rulers other with leaders. Much of the land is still not ruled by any. Such as Lake Vine. It belongs to no one, but is technically within King Allanath’s kingdom. He feels everyone deserves the use of it. While, other kingdoms do not permit others within there boundaries unless a citizen. The elves imply this, troll, werewolves and some other creatures. But, many of the land openly allow others to pass and visit freely. King Allanath was elected over half a century ago by the town. It was a small village then, but many settled down and it is now the largest city on this continent. It is easiest for everyone to gather at the center of the land for anything political and Allanath has a way with words or tactics to overrule everyone.” Artemis explains. 

“I see. My land does not have a rule of any kind. It is small, maybe a dozen of them could fit on this continent. One reason I came here was to get away. After I defeated all the spiders, I could not camp anywhere without people rushing up to glorify me or ask for help. I guess you could say I became a coward and fled here. I became overwhelmed.” Zacarias replies. 

“You are following your heart. Very noble and as my father mentions all the time that is what truly makes a person. I have never seen the princess look at you as she did when you pulled her onto tour horse. Part of me want her to settle down and quit venturing out. I am getting tired of trying to keep her out of trouble or cover for her at the castle.” Artemis gives Tantivy another sugar cube.  

“Does the princess drink often?” Zacarias looks into the tavern’s window to see the princess holding a mug up with two girls swaying back and forth singing a drinking song with many people of the town or people who stopped by for the night.  

We drink, we sing. Just fill our mugs!  It will not be long until we hic up. We dance, we sit. Until our mits! We drink we sing. Just spread the love! We dance, we prance or jump around. Giver her a twirl and call her your girl. At the end of the night, just do not hurle. We drink, we sing. What is left in your mug there chump? Play more music, play some games, sing the songs of the remembered days! As we drink and dance and run the lamps, we enjoy ourselves no matter your pants. So, come on now, let us fill these mugs! 

Zacarias laughs and Artemis shakes his head. As soon as they walk in, Asia and Stasia bring them drinks. Artemis refuses, but Asia tilts his head back and starts to pour it down his throat. Zacarias just stares and watches Cassandria as he takes a drink. Stasia wraps an arm around him and places her other hand on her hip. 

“You must me Zacarias. My cousin told me all about you!” They look at one another and Stasia winks. “You know what she really likes? When people help others. See that gentleman over there?” Stasia points to a man with a peg leg and sitting at the end if the bar near a wall hunched over in tattered clothes. “Not even my cousin could lift his spirits in any way. His name is Corvo Heimler. He lost his wife and kids during a raid here months ago. He blames his leg, from a hunting accident. Everyone has stopped trying to console or elevate his mood.” Stasia starts to walk away backwards looking at Zacarias. “Every except Dria.” Stasia returns to dancing she brings another drink to Artemis, who is dancing with Asia, and they force him to drink it. Zacarias walks up to the bar and takes a seat next to Corvo. He sits hunched over his mug and grunts at Corvo. Corvo grunts back and drunkenly waves his arm.  

“Ah, what is it that you want? Here to tell me to live differently? That I am wasting my life away in this bar? If the princess did not approve she would not give me gold to waste away here. What else would I do with it?” Corvo speaks loud enough for most to hear him. 

“Well, could you tell me about your wife and kids?” Zacarias asks. 

“Eh? What? Why would you want to know? They are dead! You did not even know em'!” Corvo speaks with confused aggression. 

“So, you can not tell me anything about them? What kind of man says they love someone and then drinks away all their memories of those people. Have you done nothing to honour or preserve them? You could find a way to do that. Something to bring you happiness or brought them happiness.” Zacarias tells Corvo and stands up. As he turns around, Corvo grabs his arm. 

“Wait! A glarden. Fury searches. Picnics in the fountains.” Corvo stands and slurs. He stands up and wobbles some. A tear begins to run down his eyes. “These are the things my family used to do together. I have not done them since. That was when I was happy.” Corvo starts to stumble away and a smile smiles crosses his face. “I think I will start to tend Margret’s garden tomorrow. A new net to go searching for fairies tomorrow at the lake while I fish. The next day, a hike to our secret spot in the mountains.” 

“Wow!” Cassandria hugs Zacarias from behind. She lets go and walks around to face him. She bows. A humble knight with brilliant words and methods in the act of kindness towards an unknown individual. I am honoured and grateful. My choosing you for a knight in my court is being fulfilled in a way I never imagined.” The princess grabs Corvo's mug off the counter and raises it up high. “Let us drink in praise that Corvo will maintain good spirits and perhaps return or grow past the man he used to be!” Everyone raises their drinks and cheers.  

Some of the Baronet’s brutes come into the bar. They start to push people and cause a ruckus. Zacarias runs up to the leader and clobbers him in the face. He is knocked out cold. Two of the others try to take him on and Zacarias knocks them out too. A third sneak up from behind and smashes a chair. Zacarias turns around and picks up another chair. That guys takes off running out of the tavern, while two more guys grab Zacarias. The princess squeezes some barnyard beans in her hand and blows the dust into one of the attackers face. He got on his hands and knees and started to bleat like a goat. He started to try and eat the pants of the other attacker. Zacarias flips him over and smashes him onto a table that breaks. He stands up fast and grabs the goat acting brute and they exit the tavern. Everyone begins cheering and drinking again. Not too much time passed and the tavern door is busted through. A dozen of King Allanath’s soldiers had stormed in and took a formation. They salute and General Crasious walks in. 

“Father!” Artemis speaks and gloats. “It is my father! I love him so much!” 

“Yes, I love you too son. I wish I could partake in the merriment, but orders are orders. Sorry princess.” General Crasious speaks and begins to reach for the princess' arm. Zacarias tries to intervene and Cassandria stops him by placing a hand on his chest. Slowly, she pushes him out of the way and raises her arms out. She is hand cuffed and thrown over the shoulder of the General. He puts her in the back of a wagon and the troops take off back to King Allanath’s castle. 

“Why did he throw her in the cart?” Zacarias asks Artemis, who is waving goodbye to his father.  

“Because the princess often runs away. That is the most successful way of retrieving and delivering her back home.” Artemis grabs Zacarias' shirt and pulls himself close to his face. He gasps! “The princess' birthday is at the end of the week! I have not got her a gift!” He takes a step back and chuckles. He points and swirls his finger. “Maybe I should wrap you up! Ha, ah, ha.” Artemis faints and falls back onto the ground. Asia and Stasia grab him. They put him on Andy’s horse and send him off. The horse will follow the troop. 

“Do not worry. He will be fine.” Asia says as she walks back into the Tavern.  

“Do you need a bed? A horse? Food? More drinks? C' mon! Tell me what ya’ need.” Stasia asks. 

“A horse. Please!” Zacarias answers. 

At King Allanath's castle... 

"Have they not found her? She must be here to make preparations for her birthday ball!" Says King Allanath to his wife Chanel Lou, while pacing around the top of the stairs with the thrown. The sun is rising slowly in the early morning. "I hope she will not be too much in a mood and try to socialize with some of the men." 

"Everything will be okay. Just relax. It has only been a couple days since she was last here and reports say she has been around Sunleaf Village. You said she spent a whole summer away once." Says Chanel Lou. 

"That was different. Her mother’s village was attacked last night! The summer she was gone, she called that the longest game of hide and seek." He pauses for a moment. "Maybe I should allow her to be in the scouting party. She can find everything and not be found herself if she tries. I guess all those years against my soldiers has made her the best of the best." Replies King Allanath. 

“That or being the daughter of you! I see you in her all the time. Looks, brains and habits.” Lady Chanel Lou kisses her husband and grabs his hands. He finally calms down some. 

"Your majesty! We found your daughter at the tavern in Sunleaf. She is just as feisty as ever. I do not thinks those elves would ever harm her, for it was a group of them who flagged us down to tell us of her whereabouts." Says a royal messenger as his pauses and jitters his fingers. She is draped over General Crasious' shoulder and the messenger is looking at her butt. "Her beauty should be subjected to many on a daily basis. I will be surprised if all the suitors you invited this year will be declined.” 

"Treat her civilized. Let her go.” Shouts King Allanath. 

"Right. My birthday ball?" Cassandria speaks ironically. “Must it be a celebration for everyone? Could we not just have a night without all the commotion and introductions. I feel dirty after shaking so many hands.” 

"This one will be a grand ball open to all in the land! I have invited some notorious groups to entertain and, hopefully, gain your liking. Less of the nobles, princes and those living comfortably above others. You enjoy watching dancing, right?” The king explains. 

“Yes! Do not say no more. Just let her be surprised.” The queen suggests to the king. “Many will be singing and dancing for you. A well known chef will be bringing many eligible cooks with him and afterwards enjoy the celebration as our staff does all the waiting. Do not forget the knight and bard we gave staying in our castle.”  

“What knight?” Asks the princess. 

***strum, dum*** 

The bard enters the room playing a harp. “A knight who shimmers, so bright, when wearing his armour. A meeting last night, already, to gain her heart. What will the outcome be? Apologizes! King, there was nothing to dishonor the rights of a wedding ring. He the knight, a mage and princess helped rescue townsfolk and make the naysayers a joke. To your honour your daughter brings you out well. Her words can not be beaten and she was only defending being mistreaten’. Look at her smile! He will be here shortly, in a while.” The queen claps and the king smiles. 

“You should head to your room. Rest and later come down to help in the preparations.” King Allanath hugs his daughter and shoes her away. 

The royal messenger rushes into the room. Both the bard and princess listen in. "Sir! The Black Knight was seven at the elves camp the last two nights! Once with the general’s son and that Zacarias fellow. The princess was also seen both nights around the camp."  

“Yes, I am aware of some of this. I do not have anything against the Black Knight. I highly encourage the things he has been doing for the land and my people. Set out notices for him to be invited to the ball. Set out word that I wish to speak and thank him properly in person. He shall be knighted under me! Ask the general to send scouts out to try and set a treaty with the elves to establish what they are doing exactly.” Allanath’s tells the messenger.  

“Sir! Their camp is under authority of Baronet Morgath himself.” Answers the messenger. 

The king stands up slowly. Under his breath he mutters. “Please… not now.”  

“What was that sir? Do you wish me to send the scouts out anyways?” Asks the messenger. 

“No! Instead send word out to all two closets mages towers, Fire and Water, and ask them to send people out. Only those willingly and not under my name, but for the safety of the land. As you know, I do not support magic. When Baronet Morgath gets involved, it is always highly magic related. Lake Vine has no magic. It all is under the fairies, whom I trust the elder, and do not wish the creatures in our around, along with the people, to be succumbed to magic in any form. Send out, a, scout to the northern shore of Lake Vine. I will have a parcel and gift for him to open while he eats his lunch there. It shall lure a fairy to him. The parcel is to be given to the elder fairy. Go!” 

“Yes sir!” The royal messenger exits the thrown room.  

The princess takes off running down the hall to her room. She enters and is greeted by a few workers. Some are heating her bed for a rest and others are fluffing her pillows. One is holding her nightwear out and another is closing the curtains to her windows. The princess sighs and steps on a stool for her dress clothes to be removed. All the workers are women and proceed with a bed time routine; as they have for over a couple decades.  

The princess walks up a few steps and jumps on to her big comfy round bed. She crawls under the covers and the curtains around the bed are closed. She hears her bedroom door slam shut behind all the workers exiting. Slowly, she closes her eyes and drifts off into dream land. 

“Psst! Princess!” A woman’s voice whispers. Cassandria opens her eyes. Luna was laying on her pillow with her elbow bent and hand under her chin. “I love your room! It defines what a princess is presumed to live like.” She disappears and reappears on the spout to a large round golden bath tub in the shape of a diamond. “I wish I could take a luxurious bubble bath! But, I can not.” Cassandria sits up and Luna reappears in front of her face holding a letter. “Please give this to tour father! I await your birthday!” Luna disappears and Cassandria gets out of bed. She walks over to a rope and pulls on it. A bell is rung. Moments pass and the workers from before all enter her room. They help her dress and put her hair up in a style. When this is completed, she heads down to the dining room. The king and queen are sitting at one end of a very long table and Zacarias and Ye are at the other end. The princes takes her place in the center between them. Appetizers have already been distributed and the princess is brought a plate. She eats meatballs shaped like flowers. After, they bring out soup.  

“Complements to your chef! And, thank you graciously for having us in your castle and dining us in a regal manner!” Ye shouts. “If only I had a song to fit this adequately.” 

“Much thanks! The meatballs are actually recipe passed down from my family. They will be here in the next day or two. Do not mind my nicest. They may pester both of you. Just notify any of the workers or us and they will be removed from your presence and directed to not disturb you.” Chanel speaks. 

“Oh, I love kids!” Ye nudges Zacarias in the rib with his elbow. He spits some soup out and wipes his face. Cassandria giggles. “I can not wait for the day when Zacarias, here, had little ones for me to educate and play with. I was not always a bard. Before, I was a scholar. Sadly, all my students were succumbed to the spiders. The entire school was demolished from the ground below. I only wish I had taught them simple protective spells to have helped them overcome the disastrous situation. Zacarias saved many of the children that were not perished when the school came crumbling down.” 

“How dreadful for the students and teachers. How heroic for you to aid in their continuation of living as well.” Chanel speaks. The main course is brought to the table. A Cornish hen is set in front of everyone. They are stuff with lemon, apples, rosemary, oregano and thyme. Around the plate are carrots and potatoes nicely decorated. Individual loafs of bread are also set beside everyone. The wine glasses are all refilled. 

“A toast!” Ye raises his glass and everyone does the same. “To the king and queen, who I deem worthy of to sing. To fully bellies and becoming good fellies. To love and above!” They are drink their wine and the glasses are refilled. 

After dinner, Cassandria walks out of one of the hallways leading to the bailey. Zacarias follows behind her. She walks to a statue of a buck. She sticks her fingers in it nostrils and turns one of the antlers. The sound of metal can be heard with rock. The princess walks to an opening along the castle's walls and drops down into it. It is closed behind her. He waits a few minutes and follows behind her. Down the passage are many halls. Zacarias is regretting his decision and wishes he had called out to the princess. A glimmer or light can be seen down one. As he approaches, a torch is lit on the wall. There is a table with a letter.  

Hello Zacarias! 

I understand you were following me. This is my castle and not even the guards know of this. I ask you do not tell my father, or he will start having patrols down here. If you wish to find me, all you have to do is wait for me back at the castle. I need answers from the Black Knights. I know you will not turn around. So, as I have heard, the Black Knight will be digging into the elves. At the camp or their domain? I am uncertain. How long will it take you to find one of the six exits down here. Or will you find one of the dozen leading back into the castle.  

Best wishes, 

Princess Cassandria  

P.S. 

If you truly get lost, use this rock to call upon Artemis. Just smash it on the ground or against something. 

Zacarias closes his eyes and can hear a cricket. He follows the noise to find himself in a cave. The walls are a bit damp. He follows the moisture. Time passes and he exits behind a waterfall within the river. He is now far southwest of the castle; not to far from the town. The only thing to do is jump. He dives into the river. As he rises to. The surface, a commotion can be heard in the town. Horses whinnying and people screaming. He swims to the shore fast and rushes to the town. He finds the Black Knight in a duel with a group of mercenaries. They are moving about the town dodging and attacking one another. Eventually, the Black Knight dodges a swing and one of the mercenaries cuts a rope. A wooden lift falls and knocks out all the attackers. The Black Knight looks at Zacarias and gestures for him to duel. He picks up one of the mercenaries swords and tosses it to Zacarias. At the same time he summons a bag of gold and drops it between them. This signifies a bet and the duel is not in conflict. Zacarias accepts and takes a stance with the blade. Townsfolk gather to watch and begin taking bets. The two rush at one another and clash with their blades. Back and forth the push each other slightly. Suddenly, Zacarias’ sword breaks and the two stumble back. The Black Knight disperses his blade into mid air and shrugs his shoulders. Fast, he takes off running. Zacarias is right behind him. Through the town they ambush. The Black Knight is faster and gets the slip of Zacarias. Galloping can be heard. He looks through an alleyway and sees the Black Knight take off. Unable to obtain a horse, Zacarias watches the knight exit the town into the woods. In the distance, he can see the crescent blade summoned. 

The Black Knight is attacked by a vampire and thrown off his horse. The vampire closes in to try and look into the face of the knight. Only darkness can be seen where eyes should be. The vampire turns into a bat and flees. The Black Knight stands up fast and launches a lava rock at the bat. It falls to the ground and the Black Knight disperses of the creature. To the knights amazement, he realizes the crescent blade has many magical capabilities. Usually a wooden or silver object was the only way to end the life of a vampire. That and the sun or dunking them in holy water. The knight  recounts his horse and takes off just as Zacarias was nearing. Zacarias looks at the dead vampire and quickly retreats back to the town.  

The next morning at King Allanath’s castle  …… 

The princess awakes to a knock on her door. She crawls out of bed and puts on a long robe, that drags on the ground, around her night ware dress. Dawn is barely breaking and birds are singing. Cassandria opens the door to her chamber. Zacarias rushes in. He stops for a moment and takes in the overall look of the princess. She crosses her arms. 

“What do you want?” She asks. She undresses her arms. “You seem stressed, panicked or worried?” 

Zacarias paces around the room. “The Black Knight!” He stops and grabs the princess by her shoulders. While looking into her eyes, he gazes for a moment, and asks her, “Tell me everything you know of him! What did you find out last night? I got your note. He was not where you predicted.” 

The princess smiles and takes a few steps back. “What is the matter? Do you think he out ranks you? What is it about him that has you so frantic?” 

“Please! Do not mock me. I saw a vampire last night! I did not believe they existed!” Zacarias crosses his arms and looks seriously at the princess. “Where did you go last night? What did you find out?” 

The princess giggles and turns around. She lowers her robe below her shoulders and looks back at Zacarias. “Why is it you have some sort of hold on me?” She winks and walks behind a folding wall with a design of a setting sun over water and mountain. She looks around the side with her head and shoulders showing. Zacarias begins to stand in aw and frozen. “Do you know how much trouble you could get into for entering my room? Or even being in my presence…” She looks down at her body; which is naked. “Like this?” She throws her robe at his face. He is caught in it and struggles to remove  it. Water can be heard running. She appears behind him clothed in another robe. She wraps her arms around his neck and stands on her tip toes. The princess leans into Zacarias’ ear and whispers. “I know more about the Black Knight than most. More die to many encounters with him.” She leans into his other ear and lowers a hand across his chest. “My endeavours were unsuccessful last night. I do know the Black Knight can not resist a challenge. Perhaps you should challenge him. He intends to challenge others and always prevails on top. Perhaps a lure of some sort.” The princess takes step back and throws her robe over his head. Zacarias struggles out of it again. A splash can be heard. He looks at the princess and sees her sitting in a bubble bath. Immediately, he turns around. 

“Well… I can see your busy. I should take my leave.” Zacarias speaks bashfully. 

“So noble and worthy of the title of my Knight!” The princess taunts. Zacarias walks over to the tub and kisses the princess. Very quickly, he runs out of the room. Cassandria sits in her bath tub with an expression of happiness. She rests her arms on the edge if the bath tub and rests her head on it to think. Zacarias runs out of the princess’ chamber and bumps into Artemis in the hall. 

“I know that look!” Artemis grabs Zacarias by a shoulder and looks at him. “She is in the tub? Yeah…… I have hoped in that thing a few times to teach her not to toy with me.” Hr removes her hand from Zacarias’ shoulder and studs beside him with an arm around his neck. Artemis leans in close. “What really gets her is if you outsmart her like that. Or if you tug on that rope in her room, many workers will show and she hates that when she does not want them.” Artemis removes his arm and starts to rub his chin. “They do give a great body wash and pamper.” He shakes his head an continues to walk with Zacarias. “Tell me the reasoning behind your disorientation?” 

“Yeah… I coward at the princess in the tub. I had never done or felt that way before. I went in to interrogate her about the Black Knight with confidence, and walked out feeling young again.” 

“Yeah…. The prin6is great at that. I am surprised, she portrayed these actions to you so soon. Have you any ideas for her birthday in a couple days?” Artemis speaks. 

“None!” Zacarias replies. 

“Do not worry. For some reason, this year has been difficult for me too. In fact, many throughout the land are puzzled at why to so this year.” Artemis removes his arm and crosses his arms with eyes closed. “Strange…. Something is a admits right now…” 

“What do you know of the Black Knight? The princess says I should try to confront him.” Zacarias looks at Artemis, while turning around.  

“Not much. I know he is very heroic and has accomplished many noble endeavours.” Artemis responds. 

Later that day…… 

Artemis and Zacarias are placing posters up all over the place. Mainly, near King  Allanath’s castle. The two meet up in the town to discuss there success. Time passes and the Black Knight does not give into their lure.  

During that same day…… 

Cassandria finishes getting ready. After, she finds her father and hands him the note Luna had gave her. Her father is pleased with the response from the elder and refuses Cassandria to know any part of it. From there, the princess went into town. She was well known and could not venture far without having an entourage following her. She would do anything possible to help the townsfolk. At the same time, she would take in rumours and stories that were in heat throughout the land.  

A couple days pass…… 

Cassandria is leaning on a stand of a  mannequin  body for her dresses. Two workers are pulling at corset. They tighten it and tie it with royal knots. After, they drape a red silk dress over her. It took hours to cure her hair with oil and metals rods over the fire. Time passes and Princess Cassandria is now all gushed and dolled up for her birthday ball. When they are complete with preparing the princess for her ball, she exits her room. King Allanath was waiting outside of her room. He prompts his arm for her to grab. They both walk down the throne room that has been exquisitely decorated as it has been every year. The queen was sitting in her thrown; overseeing the event. Around the room were many tables with food and drinks. The throne room was also a large room. Perfect for a ball of any sorts. A good chunk of the land had appeared with many rich, noble, famous or royalty from other continents across the oceans. King Allanath walks the princess to a table at the bottom of the steps below the throne. She is sat in  regal and exquisite chair with a table on front of it and her father and stepmother at the top of the stairs behind her. 

One by one, many men attempted to win the fair princess’ heart. With failure, they would being to enjoy the rest of the festivities.  Ye Joe Free is bust with crowds adoring hus8muscila lyrics and gifts. Zacarias and Artemis stay away from the princess. A couple hours into the festivities, Stasia and Asia show up and hug the princess simultaneously.  

“Please! Help me out of this!” The princess pleads. 

“Why? You need a man in your life!” Stasia responds  

“Let us bounce this place. I am down to roll!” Asia speaks. And nudges Stasia. 

“No! She needs to at least try with these people. Not just run away.” Stasia responds.  

“Most of these guys are in it to for the title of being royalty. They do not actually want to know me or care about the people of this land. Only themselves!” Cassandria states. “Help me! Please!” 

Asia grabs the princess' wrist. She begins to tug away. Stasia grabs Asia's arms and halts them from fleeing. “Aw, your no fun. Who knows what we could venture to outside this castle.” Asia says. 

Many men from all over the land and other countries present themselves to the princess. One group of men, in particular, had performed a special song and dance for her. Nothing like anyone had ever seen with their eyes before. The group was from a continent not of this land. They really appreciated the princess’s dress. It had reflected styles of their homeland greatly. The princes really enjoyed this group of men, but at the same time still was her usually self to avoid and not engage with them on a more intimate level. The time if the night came for everyone to dance. The princess first danced with her father and after she had to dance with every eligible bachelor. Luckily, these dances did not last more than a minute to make sure everyone had a chance. At one point, Zacarias and Princess Cassandria were matched for a dance. The bard had made sure to make the lighting low and music slow.  

Zacarias and Cassandria stood looking at one another after departing their previous partners for dancing. All eyes were on them Md most of the guests had ceased their dancing to watch in awe. The room was all filled with the same anticipation and curiosity the two were feeling. Zacarias bows and Cassandria curtsies. He walks close and grabs Cassandria by the hand and waist. The two being to spin and dance. 

“You look amazing! This dress suites you rather well. Not that anything you wear does not. It is just, that this dress is unlike I have ever seen and a real attractive shade.” Zacarias tells the princess. 

“Thank you! I was glad I was able to wear one of my choosing over what my father had picked. I think your attire is rather appropriate for the evening. Like may of the guests tonight, I could see myself making my own adjustments.” The princess winks. Zacarias clears his throat.  

“So, what happens if you do choose someone here tonight?” Asks Zacarias. 

“I will be wed to him as soon as possible. I am doubtful that will he the outcome. At the same time, I worry over an arranged marriage based off of my father’s interests. The only thing to do is see how the evening plays out.” The music stops and Zacarias takes steps away from the princess. Many being to clap; subtly. He kisses the back if her hand and rushes off. The next bachelor steps in for a dance. The princess watches Zacarias’ every move out of the ball.  

Much time passes and Cassandria takes her leave of the room to powder her nose. Many of the guests are sitting and enjoying the food after having much alcoholic drinks. One of the stain glass windows is broken through. The Black Knight jumps off a steed and summons his crescent blade. He looks around the room. He spots the seat of the princess below the throne. He points at her chair, at him self and raised a hand beige his head and lowers it slowly and a fist near his heart. The king begins clapping.  

“Black Knight! I am honoured to have you hear at my daughter’s day of birth celebration. I only wish the circumstances were different. I give my full support over the woo of my daughter ! Her absence should be short.” King Allanath’s shouts for all to hear in the room. The Black Knight looks around the room. He pulls out a flyer from Zacarias; to duel. Zacarias gladly take the challenge he had prompted. The Black Knight takes a stance. Very fast, he disperses the crescent blade and stands up talk. He shrugs his shoulders and  takes off running through the swamps of the castle.  

“Do not let him escape! I have more questions that are needing answers.” King Allanath stands from his thrown and shouts. It was easy for the Black Knight to lose the guards. The party ends and King Allanath sends everyone away. A few selected individuals were granted the right to stay in the castle. As for anyone else, there was no room. Some stayed in the town or nearby towns, while other made there ventures home. 

Rushing through the swamp as fast as possible, the guards are slowly lost behind the Black Knight. Zacarias does not give up and is tailing the Black Knight, closely, on horseback. The knight keeps launching lava rocks at Zacarias’ and his horse. They are both very skilled at riding. The knight stops his horse suddenly and steers it off the trail. Zacarias slides on his horse and takes off after. Without a trail, the horses are jumping and leaping over many puddles and plants. Occasionally, an alligator snapping at them. Eventually, the Black Knight stops in a large puddle near the edge of a many pools of swampy water. He raises his left arm in the air and a glistening broadsword appears in his hand. It has two half crescent moons on the handle of the blade; different sizes. The Black Knight, looks up in confusion. Previously, only one moon had been present. He bends his left elbow raised slightly above his head and turns around. He gestures at Zacarias with the right hand to come forth as he stops and refers his horse. Zacarias smiles and dismounts the horse and splashes into a puddle. From there, he smacks the horse so it takes off running. He reaches behind his back and unsheathes a platinum claymore. It appears to have something dripping off the edge. 

“I have looked forward to challenging you one on one. Your stories have reached villages outside of this continent. When you rushed into many building burning to rescue people you did not know, well, it inspired me. I wanted to be just like you when the spiders attacked my land. I just told myself I can be every as bit as great as you and charged in without fear or worry.” Zacarias nods his head. “Thank you!” The Black Knights shrugs. “I am ready when you are!” 

A moment goes by as they stare and the two take off towards one another. Their blades begin the clash, smash, bash and thrash at one another. Almost evenly matched. The Bard shows up with a renaissance choir. Ready to sing and perform about what is to perspire… there was a lute and a flute that sounded real sharp while a kid strummed the harp so the bard could truly sing with his heart! 

“Zacarias raises his blade with might. With a swoosh on down the Black Knight steps to the right. What a fight! Such a delight! To witness this, makes me full of might! Slam and bam, I do not understand, how is it this does not hurt their hands. Steps to the left, steps going back. A duck a dodge and not one has made a sword lodge. The two are synced in cue. What ever will we do? Is this a fight to battle who is true? Can it be that they are both what seems to be best? Above all the rest? They fight with what is in their chests. Standing, now, at their best. I can feel this is meant to be quite the test. One dives in and the other strives right. What a sight!” The bard sings while everyone else plays music. 

Zacarias stabs forward and the Black Knight twists around and attempts to slash his side. Zacarias dodge rolls out of the way and looks up at the knight. He is diving down from a leap in the air at an another attempt to take out Zacarias. Zacarias rolls again and quickly slices his blade upward at an angle. The knight counters and  other recoil off one another. The knight swiftly regains himself and takes a stance tall and noble. He disperses his sword and pulls his palms together. A large lava rock is summoned and launched at Zacarias. He dodges and rushes in fast with a slice of his sword. The Knight dodges and continues to launch lava rocks. The two continue to battle. At one point, the knight slams his fist into a puddle he is standing in and all the water turns into lava.  

“How? How does your armour not disintegrate?” Zacarias looks at his blade to find it is no longer dripping with spider venom. “I have never  battled this long without the spider venom disintegrating a weapon. Yet, I have never battled with anyone who I could not lay a strike on. Until, this land.”  

Time goes by and the two continue to battle. Suddenly, the knight stops. He rushes around in a circle and draws a circle with his sword around the lava puddle. Soon after, he summons six lava rocks. They surround his body in the air. The begin to circle around him. The Black Knight summons a seventh lava rock and holds it above his head in the  air above his head. He let’s go and it hovers. An eight lava rock is summoned and thrown to Zacarias. He catches it in his chest with both hands, while dripping his claymore. The Black Knight grabs the rock above his head and slams it into the lava puddle beneath his feet. An enormous flash of light fills the area. The bard and renaissance choir are teleported to the Fire tower; not to far from King Allanath’s castle. The mages there are confused of their arrival. The area clears and the Black Knight is left standing, in a defensive stance, to Zacarias in a puddle of water. He gestures for Zacarias to come forth. He picks throws the lava rock to the side and picks up his sword. After, he rushes forth and the two recoil off one another. Zacarias smiles and continues to strike. The Black Knight sense something and continues to counter. Slowly, he takes steps back.  

After so many steps, the Black Knight steps into another swampy puddle. A snare is activated and grabs the knight by his ankle. Very quickly, the Black Knight is pulled and hung upside down. The two continue to strike at one another. Even while hanging upside down, the Black Knight maintains to have control of the battle. Zacarias stresses some and continues to battle. Some time passes, Zacarias spins around and swings at the knight with much might horizontally. The Black Knight pulls his body upwards to dodge. As he stretches back down straight with his body, the crack the Baronet made in the neck cracks even more. The helmet of the Black Knight falls off into the puddle below him. Zacarias drops his sword and his jaw drops open in full shock with confusion. As he stares into the true eyes of the Black Knight, the two are silent. 

Back at King Allanath’s Castle…… 

“What?” Artemis is talking into a magical orb. The head mage of the Fire tower had contacted him about the events of the ball that took place that night. He proceeded to tell him about how they were not out of the normal and how the bard had followed with the choir. He was told what happened with the Black Knight's magic. “What? What sort of magic is this?” The Fire mage spoke of an ancient legend only considered to be rumours. Until, now. 

“Yes! I know of this magic!” Luna pops up from out of nowhere; glowing and sparkling near Artemis' ear. She looks into the orb. “That is why the mages towers were made. To protect this land or something. They said if a knight worthily of one of the lands magic was crafted a suit, that something terrible would happen! What could it be? I think the elder may know more. I do know that there is a suite for each class of element magic. Earth, Air, Water, Fire and Lighting.” Luna gasps! “Do you think the other armours have been gained as well? That is un spoken of? It is said to only be one.” She crosses her arms. “There was something else too. Something important. To do with a…” She throws her arms out. “I can not remember!” 

“Whatever it is, we must all be cautious. I fear for the princess. She ran off with her friend. Please keep a look out for her. She must be brought back here immediately. There must be a reason for the Black Knight appearing. Perhaps, he is enlightened with more information about everything.” Artemis speaks. The orb's pictures fades of the Fire mage and Luna looks at Artemis. The make eye contact with a look of worry. 

At the Fire tower…… 

“What do you mean you can not teleport us to the castle!” Ye Joe Free shouts.  

“I am sorry. The magic the Black Knight demonstrated is beyond our skill and un heard of. Something old and not recorded. You will have to walk back or find a carriage. We do not have any nearby, but it is just over and hours walk to King Allanath’s castle. You may all sleep here tonight. I do not advise traveling the woods at night.” The head Fire mage tells and walks away with a worrisome look. The bard attempts to stop him and restrains himself. Morning rises and the bard with the choir make their leave through the forest. Birds are singing and animals are out and about without fear. 

“What a land. So much has happened in such a few days! I feel like destiny has drawn me and Zacarias here for a reason. To hear a well respected skilled mage speak of magic unknown? Why, that is something to sing about. I will need time to establish the right lyrics. I do hope Zacarias was alright after we parted from his battle with the Black Knight. I heard of a story that the Black Knight once took out an entire hoard of infected citizens. They were cursed by some sort of treasure and the only cure was to terminate them or have the rest of the land infected too. They said so many others had rose to fight that battle and the knight was the only one unaffected by the infection and curse. Standing alone in an area with hundreds of mad people who all attacked at once. He triumphed with the skill of his sword. The one not from the chest of chances. To the left, to the right, a circle around and using his might. Defeating the plight! He does what is right! Maybe, I should configure a name to call people under a certain influence or disease. Such as that event. Other than letting others tell it as it is. I could die happy being the creator of such a thing.” The bard speaks to the choir as they walk to try and maintain good spirits and help pass the time. Many of the choir have never ventured outside of the city and castle. The bard is not one to take charge of a group, but adores ten chance to inspire and establish higher perspectives of others.  

“Is it really?” Zacarias is completely in awe over what he sees. His sword lays on the ground as he drops to his knees and stares. Slowly, Zacarias reaches out for the left hand of the Black Knight as he swings side to side hanging upside down. 

In Lord Nelven's kingdom…… 

“How dare they! I will not have any more knights ruling over this land! But, me!” Baronet Morgath reaches forward from his head on the ground towards a broken piece of his staff, while kneeling. “Lord Nelven, I have disgraced this sacred item. I will restore as much of it as I can.” Morgath pushes himself to a stand and most of his armour is disintegrated. “The entire camp is nothing but skeletons and burnt ash. A few others survived, but are in critical states." Baronet Morgath is talking to a floating orb with Lord Nelven's face showing within it. He walks over to the lake and takes steps into the water; knee high. He places the pieces of staff into the water in front of him. All around him, outside of the water, was a ruined camp reflecting in the lake. It allowed him to find the other pieces of the staff. It had not been completely destroyed. After reassembling the staff, he conjured up a chariot with four steeds, made of water, from the lake. Baronet Morgath stands in the chariot and takes off; leaving behind a water trail and the orb disappears. He travels to the Elven Kingdom; ruled by Nelven Lustor. He is greeted with both honor and sorrow. With no time to waste he heads directly to Nelven. He spends most of his time in a garden; hidden deep below the castle. Through the front doors of the castle of the Elven Kingdom, is a waterfall that flows to the garden below the surface. The Baronet uses a hidden slide for faster travel that is within the waterfall. 

“Baronet Morgath! I did not expect you back so soon. What news do you bring me?” Nelven Lustor asks, while helping the Baronet out of a pool of water. He explains of his quest and how he has uncompleted it in more depth. “All is not lost. You have the advantage of surprise. They think you are dead or, most likely, severely hurt. I can help you get the power you need to help crush them! First, why not make a statement to everyone of this land. I know why King Allanath refuses magic.” They both begin to walk along a path near a creek. “I want you to journey to each of the five mages towers. Our Lighting tower, here, in the northeast. The Earth tower in the north and Air tower in the northwest. Southwest, is the Fire tower and southeast is the Water tower. Go to each of them a acquire a magic stone crafted within each tower. After that, use this scroll to contact me and we will need to journey to the swamp near King Allanath’s castle.” The Baronet takes the scroll and walks up a spiral set of stairs that appears from within a fog. He walks up them and enters a room with new armour presented on a manikin. It appears to be made of some sort of scales and bones. 

In the swap near King Allanath’s castle…… 

“I can’t look at you… and at the same time… I wanted… well… now it is different… geez… Why?” Confused Zacarias begins to question. Angrily, he says, “No! This is not you! It can not be! Is this some sort of enchantment? To make me a fool?” He looks up and grasps the hand of the Black Knight with both hands. He is hanging from by some rope by one of his ankles set off by the snare trap. The helmet has fallen off from the brutal neck impale Baronet Morgath’s staff made and the repetitive motions dodge the battle with Zacarias. Hanging upside down made it easier for the helm to dislodge. Zacarias stares into the eyes of the Black Knight deeply with much passion and respect. “Princess… I… I can not… where is your dress? Your mannerisms? This is your secret? How do I remove this armour? It is not you.” The princess is caught by a jammed leg and can not bend up to cut the rope snare around her ankle. This is the first person to discover her secret through the loss of her first battle as the Black Knight. She had never been unmasked before and did not know the helmet could be removed, or any of her amour, separately. 

“Enchantment. I hope it still works the next time I require it.” Princess Cassandria replies,  with a tone of loss and defeat. Next, she tugs her arm put of Zacarias’ grip and launches a lava rock at the rope. As she falls, Zacarias quickly stands and catches her. He gazes directly into her eyes. “Stop it! Right now!” She shoves herself out of his arms and makes a fist near her chest. As she walks to her helmet on the ground, she kneels. A bunch of fire burns away the  rest of the armour around her body and she is wearing her exquisitely extravagant red silk dress from the far east she had bought in her mother’s village. “I was afraid of that…” She stands up with the helmet made from volcanic rock in her hand. “Looks like you defeated the Black Knight…” A tear falls from her eye as she lowers her head. She reaches into a pocket in her dress and pulls out a stone. 

“Wait!” Zacharias exclaims. He stands up and rushes in close. He throws his arms around her shoulders and embraces her. As he rests his head on her shoulders he says, “To have been matched by anyone, I am glad it was you. I have never seen skills as yours. I feel together we could overcome that Baronet guy. Do not take this as defeat! Why is it you can not allow other to know of your great skills?” He leans in to kiss her cheek. Cassandria turns her head to the side. 

“Defeat? Not something the Black Knight has ever faced. As a princess, I am not to engage in combat. My father would throw me in the dungeon for life with the heaviest of guards. I would never see the light of day again!” She grabs Zacarias’ hand and turns around, while stepping away from him. Their fingers slowly separate from one another. As the tips of their fingers fall from one another, Zacarias lunges forth and grabs the princess around her waist he looks into her eyes and kisses her. 

In the forest outside of the Eleven Kingdom…… 

Baronet Morgath is galloping away on a fast steed. His new armour suits him well and many citizens of the area gloat and cheer him on. He makes his way to each if the towers. No force is necessary, and he passes tests of each of the towers with much ease. He learned magic from a young age and their tasks were very simple for him to master. After he has acquired the items, requested by Lord Nelven, he returns to the Eleven Kingdom. Manu days pass during this time. 

Back in the swamp after princess Cassandria’s birthday ball…… 

The princess walks away from Zacarias with a smile. He attempts to approach her and she smashes a rock on the ground. Water drenches Zacarias as she disappears. 

The princess arrives at the blue mages tower of magic; specializing in water. She is welcomed and takes a carriage back to the town nearest to her castle. From there, she walks and resumes to her normal behavior; as people see and expect her as a princess. 

Zacarias walks back to the kingdom thinking, in his head, over what he has just discovered. He arrives at the castle; greeted by General Andrew Crasious in the dawn’s early sunrise. The general asks about the Black Knight and Zacarias says he is unsure about what happened. He tells the general about unknown magic and that his thinking is clouded. He still wishes to know the princess and knows he could simply tell her father, to have control over her, but decides he would rather help her and whatever it is she is set out to do. As the morning goes on, he practices with the generals men. Zacarias passes many of the tests put to him. Ye Joe Free arrives and he takes his leave from the castle with Zacarias. They checked into a inn within the city nearby. 

“The next day, Zacarias was walking through the town. He stops and takes a fee steps back. While looking into a window he says, ”Can it be?” He is stopped in front of a bakery. He watches the princess overlooking all the sweet treats! Zacarias walks in, casually, and picks up a cookie in the shape of a flower. He places against Cassandria’s cheek. “Please! Would you do me the honour of spending one day with me? I know this is no enchantment. I can not stop thinking of us and our last encounter.” He winks and smiles. The princess smiles back and takes a bite of the cookie. To both of their surprise, a witch bursts in! She casts a frog spell onto Zacarias and the bakers become buckets and brooms. People begin to flee from out of the bakery and around the area outside. She summons a rope and wraps it around the princess; taking her hostage. For fun, she ignites the whole bakery! The princess leaps off the broom and the witch shrinks her small. After casting a spell, binding her in locks and chains, the witch returns her to the normal size and attaches her to the broom. The witch takes off laughing with princess Cassandria’s tied up on the back of her broom. 

“Oh no!” The bard screams and run in. He grabs all the buckets and brooms. The frog leaps out into the town as fast as he can hop. The bard grabs the frog and some snacks to eat as he takes everyone outside. Not too much time passes, and Zacarias returns to normal. He helps vanquish the fire and immediately heads out after the princess. Before reaching the gates he is greeted by General Crasious, his army and King Allanath. The king hands Zacarias a sword; embedded with diamonds. The soldiers all set out to the witches camp in the west and send smaller groups to every tower. 

It takes a day to travel outside of the area in which the witches reside. All the soldiers and Zacarias take a rest for the night. In the morning, they are planning their attack. Everyone is to get a good night’s rest before the attack. Before Zacarias went to sleep, a pink light emitted before him. It emerged as Luna! 

“Dear Zacarias! I have news for you!” Luna starts to fly circles around his head in excitement. “I want you to know, the special magic the princess is using is adaptive!” 

“What do you mean?” Zacarias asks. 

“I mean, it will only become stronger. There is no way to destroy it. You could only destroy her as anyone else. Hitting a major artery, the heart or brain!” Luna explains with excitement. 

“How is this good news? She can no longer wear her helmet.” Zacarias asks. 

Luna giggles. “Silly! In time you will understand. For now, I must take my leave. You will not be in this area tomorrow and must get rest. If you can!” Luna disappears. 

In the night, Zacharias was woken by one of the soldiers horses. It calmly walled off into the forest. He fallows and runs into Artemis. 

"I have news for you." Artemis says. "I do not think the witches have Cassandria. If they are siding with the elves, it is best for my father and his army to put them in their place." 

"Where is Cassandria?" Zacarias asks, while grabbing Artemis’ shoulders and leaning in close. 

"I think the Baronet, he has been passing trails at the towers for magical stones. I fear his abilities." Artemis explains. “When he was at the water tower, he had a charm around his writs. It looked just like the one I gave Cassandria. She usually keeps it hidden in her hair. It helps flow water magic abilities.” 

"Where is he?" Zacarias pushes Artemis away and rushes to the horse. Before mounting he stops and looks at Artemis. 

"Wait! I was going to suggest teleporting you to the lighting tower." Artemis hands four amulets to Zacarias. "I need you to put these on my brothers Arnold, Arthur and Andy. The last, be very careful, my father. After one is around their necks, whisper ‘Ducks fly through mud’ and they will be under an enchantment. They should all gather here. I can not do it myself, or I may get snared in the enchantment. I will prepare a circle to help your teleportation.” 

Zacarias places the amulets and casts the enchantments. He puts on his armour and gathers some things. All five Crasious men are standing in a circle with candles around them. Artemis places Zacarias in the center and begins the enchantment. In a flash, Zacarias is teleported to the Lighting tower. When appearing, the mages began to flee and Zacarias knocks many of them out cold with his fists. One he grabs and slams against the wall. He beats him up for information about the princess and why the Baronet went to all the towers. Claiming not to know any information, Zacarias throws the frantic mage out the window. He shifts into lighting and lands safely on the ground. Zacarias sets out into the elven kingdom searching for answers. Word quickly traveled and he was greeted by the royal guard elites under Nelven Lustor. Zacarias draws his claymore from behind his back. It is dripping with spider venom and quickly disintegrates the guards weapons. They retreat. Not to far from the castle gate, mages began creating a spell on the ground. Zacarias holds out his platinum claymore by one hand and puts on his platinum helmet to complete his platinum armour. 

"What? You think you can take all of us? We ain't no squishable spiders!" Says one of the head elite guards. Many surround Zacarias with new armour and weapons. They all laugh.  

"You may have adapted past my use of their venom, but how about blood from the queen? Do you know this use in battle?”  Zacarias says with a smile as he dumps a bottle of blood on his blade. After, he smashes the empty vial on the ground and dashes forth. All the elites slash at him with two hundred pound war hammers. Very easily Zacarias swings upwards with an arch and strikes four of the hammers coming in for an attack. As the broken pieces fall to the ground, they turn into eggs. Very quickly they grow and hatch into spiders and begin to attack viciously. They start to bite and slash. The guards armour disintegrates from the acidic blood of the spiders directly from their fangs. Half of the elites run away and the leader strikes Zacarias from behind;  knocking him down. He slashes around backwards, while standing, and impales the side of the leader. The armour cracks and the claymore strikes skin. The leader yells and kicks Zacarias back. While stumbling back grabbing his side, a few spiders tackle the guard. The other men rush in with hammers. A tidal wave crashes over them and they turn to ice. 

"Don't worry sir! I am here to help! How about this?" The bard shows up and runs past the fight to the gate of the castle. He holds out his hand straight in front of him with his hand flat towards the ground and an armlet glows around his wrist. The mages begin attacking with spells. They reflect off the bard and he stops in the center of their spell drawn on the ground. He pulls out a scroll and opens it with a flick of his other hand. Whispering some words the drawing begins to glow and create a barrier around the bard that none of the mages can disperse or affect. A giant hand made of light and clouds appears from out of the spell circle. It turns into fist and smash through the gate. The walls around begin to crumble. The impact shook the ground and Zacarias proceeds into the castle with the bard. 

Zacarias and the bard find their way into the castle. The main entrance has a small garden and waterfall. They are attacked by a magical enchantment. The two fall to their knees and struggle. The bard holds a wand out and casts a spell. It disperses the spell around them and it turns into magical guards. Zacarias disperses of them all with his sword. Now, they are looking around the entrance; trying to decide where to go. 

“Dria!” Zacarias shouts. 

“Shh!” The bard covers Zacarias’ mouth. “With an enchantment like we just encountered, who knows what other magic lurks around here. I am worried that nobody has greeted us here. Too easy of a walk in for us.” Ye removes his hand and looks around. From there, he reaches into his shirt and pulls an object out. “Artemis gave me stunting that may help us!" He puts on some unusual spectacles. "Follow me!" He finds a hidden slide within the waterfall and they both make their decent to the underground garden beneath the castle and kingdom. 

The slide ends and the two are launched into the air. Both land on their feet safely in a pond of water. They are greeted by many guards and trapped by another enchantment in the water. They become shackled with ice chains and drug further into the garden depths through a river connected to the pond. They reach a ledge with another waterfall and are both tossed over, while being released from their shackles. Upon landing harshly, they see the princess captured. She is somehow bonded with a very large boulder. They rush over and try to remove the mysterious sticky adhesive restraints around her.  

"It is no use!" Lord Nelven shouts from atop a tall pillar. He is sitting in a throne chair. "Perhaps with you here, Great Platinum Knight born to fight, I can lure in that annoying Black Knight of the Night!" Baronet Morgath appears in between them, suddenly, with many lighting sparks emitting off him from out of a circle drawn on the ground. He raises his re constructed staff and a large bolt of green lighting strikes before them! The bard casts his armlet and protects the Platinum Knight and the princess. The Platinum Knight pulls out King Allanath's sword and starts stabbing the adhesive bonding attached to the princess and rock. He is having difficulties with the sword bouncing off the material. The bard is recoiled into Zacarias, after blocking a spell sent towards him from the Baronet, and King Allanath’s sword gets jammed into the boulder. At the same time, it slices through  some of the adhesive from Cassandria’s left arm to the boulder. 

"I am sorry. The armlet overloaded! I have your bag princess. Is there anything we can use?" The bard says while short of breath sitting on the ground against the rock. The Baronet picks up Zacarias with a spell,  using his staff, and turns him upside down. 

"Baronet Morgath!" The princess shouts. She pulls out the Black Knights helmet made of volcanic rock. The entire room pauses. Lord Nelven stands from his thrown mesmerized by the helm. 

"What is this trickery? That can not be the Black Knight’s helm. It can not be removed!” Lord Nelven gestures his guards to surround them. 

"It was me! I already defeated him!" Zacarias shouts while being thrown to the ground. He stands up. “After Dria's birthday ball. In the swamp. I must thank you Baronet Morgath.” Zacarias bows. “The blow you nailed him with in our last encounter made it easy for the helm to be removed. You can find his head and corpse in the swamps outside of King Allanath’s castle.” He stands and shrugs. “That is if the gators or other creatures have not engulfed his remains.” 

"It was not the simple. I have learned of the Black Knights magic. Yet, I can not explain another way to have his helm here." Baronet Morgath speaks in confusion.  

"I want to make it into a crown. I could not part without it." Zacarias walks over and grabs the helmet out of the princess' hand. "I like your new armour Baronet. I to have learned of some of the magic of the Black Knight. I have explored beneath King Allanath’s castle. But, I must say, this place is much more beautiful. Less cob webby and more natural and scenic." Zacarias, the Platinum Knight, gives his speech while holding the helm out like Shakespeare. “Who knee dragons still existed? Like I said, I like your new armour; Baronet.” 

"Dragon?" Nelven asks. "Funny, if you speak of dragons. Perhaps you have seen one. Do I detect you can you spot their scales?" He floats over to a cloud of electrical energy on the other side of the garden; beyond a large fountain of water. "My family has ruled this castle for nearly five hundred years and I know lots about this castle. The land and things lost to many. How tough were those spiders?" He takes out a crystal from within his royal garment near his chest. He flicks the crystal and it begins humming. The cloud turns into a thunderstorm and the entire underground garden begins to rain heavy large droplets of water. Nelven laughs and a ferocious dragon slams it's wings on the ground from out of the thunderstorm. All the cloud disperse and the rain stops. The dragon roars and leaps across the fountain. Nelven returns to his thrown and the Baronet stands at his side. When he breaths, golden electricity spews out from the mouth. He is missing scales scattered throughout his body. The princess pulls her father's sword out from being wedged in the stone and throws it to Zacarias. 

“Barbaric! How dare you remove the scales of this glorious creature! You are a fraud!” Cassandria shouts. 

“Ah, so the lovely princess is aware of this lands secrets as well. Interesting...” Lord Nelven responds. The dragon chomps at Zacarias and he dodges out of the way. The dragon dives at him again and the two begin to move around much. 

"Twist the pommel at the end with one hand and push down on the quillion that is sticking out farthest!" The princess shouts. Zacarias listens and a shield appears with a large diamond on it and many small ones lining it. The Platinum Knight detaches the shield from the sword and thrashes at the dragon’s mouth as it tries to bite him. The princess grabs a rope from out of her bag with many large gem spheres tied together. "Set them up around the fountain. Bite down on this invisibility stick. It only last for a few minutes and tastes awful!" The princess shoves the bard and he takes off. From there, she begins to raise her amulet in the air. 

"No!" Zacarias shouts and dodges the dragons lighting breath. The tail slashes at him as he moves near the princess. With great precision he dodges at the correct time to smash most the rock the princess was trapped to, while tackling the princess. The adhesive is still on her legs and she can not walk. The dragon smashes it's tail between them and they roll away from one another. Cassandria grabs the tail of the dragon. It pulls her above his head and flies off the ground. He throws her in the air and lands on the ground with his mouth opened; ready to swallow her. Zacarias throws the diamond sword and it spears the dragon in the neck. Scales fall off. He rushes over and catches the princess. She removes the sword from the dragon and raises it high in the air. Suddenly, she is lifted off the ground by the Baronet and drops the blade. The dragon chomps at Zacarias and he bashes his head with the shield. At the same time, he dodge rolls and picks up the sword. The princess aims an open palm at the Baronet, while hanging upside down. When magic begins to emit from her hand, the Baronet tosses her to the ground and impaled the ground brutally. The Baronet jumps down from the pillar next to the princess. 

“Dria!” Zacarias throws her the sword. She grabs it just in time to counter an attack from the Baronet’s staff. He quickly summons his sword and starts to slash left and right, up and down and angle to angle at the princess. 

“Very good! I am surprised!” The Baronet speaks. 

“Thank General Crasious. When my father hears of this, he is surely to allow me to fully perspire combat. Without his soldiers, you would have been victorious already in this battle.” Cassandria explains. 

“I have dueled with you father and this blade before. Merely, friendly. However, I did manage to cast something useful upon it.” Baronet Morgath casts a spell with his staff and the sword goes flying across the area. It lands in the fountain. The bard runs out from a bush and picks the sword up. 

"I have an idea!" He runs to a part of the garden with some animals and slays a deer. He drags it to the center of the fountain. The water becomes red quickly. The dragon stops attacking and is drawn to the carcass. The princess was back handed across the face by the Baronet and pushed away. She crawled to her bag and was picked up in the air again. She falls as the Baronet's staff is cracked in pieces again from Zacarias’ shield being tossed into it. The princess throws some magic fairy dust onto her legs and the adhesive disappears. She is glowing and sparkling all over and runs to the center of the fountain. With some arm gestures the gem spheres raise from the ground. 

"Not in my castle!" Nelven grabs the Baronet and teleports to the princess. Nelven pets the dragon as it consumes the deer carcass. The Baronet slays the dragon and a huge explosion impacts and the entire land shakes! 

Across the land…… 

All five mage's towers explode simultaneously! An immense amount of magic pours out directly to King Allanath's castle. Five distinguished pillars break open around the walls and begin floating as the outer protective wall crumbles. They begin glowing; one green, one orange, one blue, one red and one yellow. The land’s people and creatures begin to panic throughout. 

Underneath Lord Nelven’s Castle…… 

The dragon's body disappears and is absorbed into the Baronet as the orbs he collected from each of the five mages towers exits his pocket and begin circling around him. Nelven drops a minuscule rod from his hand and an electrical cloud appears as he and the Baronet disappear by the time the metal sound emits when clashing with the ground. Ye, Zacarias and Cassandria gather with each other and find a way out of the garden. A ghostly enchantment appears as Lord Nelven’s head to prevent them from exiting. Cassandria throws a bunch of coloured looking rice at the giant face. It manages to stick and shortly after explodes. The figure disperses and they run across a bridge; exiting the underground area. They are within the eleven town. 

"How do you feel Morgath? We need to get to Allanath's castle immediately!" Nelven asks. 

"I feel... powerful! I need to use this power!" Baronet Morgath replies. 

"Patience! You need to store it for now." Nelven says. They proceed through a portal within the castle to the lighting tower. 

"Quickly! To the circle in front of the gate." The bard shouts and leads the way. 

"I thought in your song, you said you were not good at taking charge?" Asks Zacarias. 

"I meant in charge of a kingdom or land. A bard can only rhyme so much!" The three stop and the bard pulls out another scroll given to him by Artemis. 

“We need to get back to my father’s castle.” The princess begins to dig through her bag. She pulls put a flare and aims it in the air of the direction of her castle. It illuminates the sky and projects a magical image of the princess. She closes her eyes and the image if herself begins to kneel on a knee in front of her castle. General Crasious’ army and anyone loyal to the princess sees the message. Quickly, many begin to make their way to the castle. The princess opens her eyes and stands as the image disperses. “Zac……” The princess is grabbed by her wrist and pulled in for a kiss by Zacarias. After, he looks her in the eyes, while brushing hair behind her ear. 

“Please, call me by Zac. Dria.” Zac says. The bard begins to read the scroll and it teleports them to the center of a corn field. 

"Wait!” The princess releases herself from Zac's grip and searches around the area excitedly. “This is where my father vanquished a beast. Look over there!" The princess points to a statue of her father as a young teen and a snake like creature attacking him. "I know a short cut hidden in this field. It is the royal farm." She finds a boulder with peculiar looking moss and flowers on it. She pull on a certain petal of one flower and whispers into another. The boulder glows and moves to the side. A ladder descends into a dark cave below the surface. They all proceed down. The princess rubs an orb and asks it to illuminate their path. Many begin floating and glowing down the cave. They run. Not to much time passes, when the princess halts. “A bridge used to be here!” They all think of what to do. 

"Over here!" Artemis shouts with Andy as they slide to a stop. They extend a magical bridge to help cross the gap. "Please tell me what is going on? All the mages towers exploded! Your castle is emitting some crazy magic and falling to pieces." Artemis hugs the princess tightly after she makes her way across the bridge. She hugs him back and the two step back looking at one another with their hands on each others shoulders. 

"Lord Nelven and Baronet Morgath! Where is my father?" The princess states. Artemis casts a spell and they end up in the throne room. Every person in the castle was dead. The princess falls the ground and cries speechless with head on her arms on the ground. 

“C' mon! We have to get to the thrown room!” Andy leads the way for Zac and Ye. 

"Princess Cassandria! Crying! That is a most beautiful sight. A princess’ tears have so much magic. I can not wait to see those beautiful eyes for the rest of your life and gather those tears for my usefulness.” From atop of the chandelier, in the center of the throne room, you can hear the Baronet's voice. Tons of magic illuminates outside the stain glass dome ceiling from the pillars. A green blot of lighting drops from the chandelier and smashes every floor tile in the room as it assembles as Baronet Morgath! He takes a few steps and avoids the falling chandelier that shatters glass everywhere. "I no longer need this staff!" He hits Cassandria across her chest as she begins to take a stand with the staff. She is flung back to the ground. Looking at the Baronet, he pulls her up by squeezing her dress and chest. At the same time, he pulls her towards him. Cassandria resists his magic, but ends up falling into his arms. Morgath walks up the stairs to the throne, holding the princess with an arm wrapped around her waist, and picks up the crown from her father's head. King Allanath is slowly dying in a pool of his own blood on the ground, while holding Queen  Chanel Lou's dead hand. Baronet Morgath throws the princess to the ground near her father and slowly places the crown on his head. He begins to laugh hysterically. "I am now king! By wearing this crown and over taking this castle, I now rule this land! Nelven is making preparations now to ensure it is permanent." The doors to the room are forced open by Zac, Ye and Andy. Cassandria rolls her father over and looks him in the eyes. She holds back tears with a grin on her face. 

“I love you, my daughter! I am sorry I did not influence your gifts. Please put an end to this abomination. I know you know what to do! Everyone is ready and at your command. More than you may think. Do not ever stop listing to yourself!” King Allanath speaks with his last breath. He brushes blood across the princess’s cheek. His face turns to the side, his arm drops to the ground fast and his eyes close. 

"How dare you!" Princess Cassandria rises. "I am the rightful successor to this throne! In fact..." She smiled and looks up through the window at the magic. "I am sad for my father's falling and I will not be granted the rule by his disown of the position. I will miss everyone in the castle, but I will grieve later.” The princess takes a deep breath and slowly raises her head from looking at the ground to direct eye contact with the Baronet. He crosses his arm and places a hand beneath his chin. “Right now, I could not be more happy!” Cassandria smiles and the Baronet squints his eyes. “Knowing that my desire towards magic was not something my father hated, but was trying to protect and prevent on this land, fills me stronger than I ever have before.” The princess grabs her heart with a hand and closes her eyes with her head looking out towards all the dead bodies. “However, I still believe in my future for this land and will do anything I can to help it grow. I may have only lived in this castle for twenty six years, but I have read everything their is to read here and explored every inch. I know what you are planning and it will not work." She regains eye contact with the Baronet and thrusts her hand from her heart out to the side. “I challenge you!” 

“Ha, ah, ha!” The Baronet laughs and releases his arms. He looks around and opens his palms facing the ceiling out to his sides. “You! Challenge me? You just really want to be my wife faster than a match takes to a parcel.” 

Cassandria puts her hands on her hips and in a cutesy voice and says, "I already slayed the dragon of this castle! After rising it by accident. I have a surprise for you that will surely make you shake in your britches!” 

“Your wife? Ha! The princess has already accepted my proposal!” Zac shouts across the room. The princess smiles bashfully. 

"Dragon! Sure!” The Baronet gloats and begins to make a descend down the stairs. “Another one’s power would increase my strength, but who needs it? You are all talk and will not prevail!" The Baronet jumps off the stairs and grabs the princess’ wrist. The room shakes and the floor breaks in the center of the room as they land. All around the chandelier and flooring begins to fall with. The Baronet and princess. Zacarias dives down fast after them. General Crasious bursts in with many men into the throne room with disgust and shame against mot being there to protect everyone. They all aim longbows down the hole into the floor. Artemis casts a spell that causes the Baronet to let go of Cassandria. She begins to fall slowly and Zac grabs her in his arms. All of General Crasious' soldiers launch arrows after arrows at the Baronet. He deflects with a magical barrier and starts to fall faster. Soon after, he hits the ground in the center of a magic circle. Nelven was waiting in anticipation and begins casting a spell. Many witches show up to aid in the ritual. While, other witches join the Generals armies. 

"What is this?" Asks Zacarias as Cassandria runs away from him fast. 

"Is this the tomb of the first knight?" The bard asks in awe as he appears with Artemis and Andy. "I have a tattered, mostly non readable, sonnet about this area. It fits the description perfectly. I had almost thought it was beneath the elven kingdom; when we were there. I thought it was children's story. I never found anything about it. What an honour! Surely fate has set this in motion long when time began!" 

"That is because it is transcribed in this castle and was in the top of the mages towers. A documentation of it was said to be sent out to each land across the world." Artemis replies. “I had no idea the princess was aware of this.” He smiles. While crossing his arms, he closes his eyes, with his head turned to the side, and taking a step to. The side. “This is what she has been up to. My burden around her mystery all this time has lifted.” He opens his eyes and stand tall with both arms rested at his side. “I believe in our princess to save out land against what is about to……” 

The ground  shakes and around the magic circle begins to crumble. Magma  rivers surround the area and are the only light for the area beneath the castle. A cable wall crumbles and more magma begins to spew out. It burns through the rocks and joins with another river of magma. The circle burns with fire around the Baronet as he and Lord Nelven laugh maniacally. 

"You dare to challenge me?" Morgath shouts. 

"I will defeat you! Just like I vanquished the dragon beneath here. The fist knight's armour was displayed in the center of that circle with the dragon in stone. I grabbed this amulet from around the knights neck and placed it around my own." She grabs her amulet and looks at it in her hand. "This amulet is amazing! It showed me so many things about this castle, the land, magic and most of all..." She grabs the helm of the Black Knight and places it on her head. "This is the true crown of this entire land! As it was during the first knight's time!” The princess holds the amulet high above her head and it begins glowing very brightly. A burst of fire burns from princess’ hand down throughout her whole body. Black volcanic armour appears around her body. A magical barrier is made in front of her face connecting the damage helm to the rest of the armour. Previously, the Black Knights eyes could never be seen. At the same time. The princess’s hair was tied back to be seen behind her. 

"You are not the Black Knight! It can not be. You are not worthy of being a knight! This is a joke!" Nelven exclaims while increasing the magic circles spell. The Black Knight summons the blade she earned from the magic chest and runs in towards Morgath. The armour protects her from magic attacked at her. After, Cassandria stops in the center of the circle and begins to strike at the Baronet. He dodges, as best possible, and Cassandria is suddenly launched out of the circle. It stops burning and a portal opens. Morgath is pulled through it and disappears with a smile. 

"Stupid girl! If you hadn't given up the first knight’s sword, you could have summoned another fire dragon here. That stupid chest is worthless! So is that sword!" Nelven taunts. 

"This is not like your castle! My father forbid magic because he feared of the sleeping magic beneath thus castle from waking up and being used for harm! The beast he slayed as a teen was the mother to the dragon I defeated!" Cassandria replies. "I do not need the first knight's sword to rise the fire dragon! You know very little about this land and how to properly use magic. Elves just force magic to work for their benefit, while truly understanding and embracing magic is far more  superior. I do not need to force a creature to fight my battles for me. I do not need you here tainting this land with your evil!" She launches a lava stone at Nelven and he ducks. 

The portal returns and two horns begin to rise from the center. Baronet Morgath was now a gruesome fawn and grew large enough to destroy the rest of the castle and most of the caves beneath it. Cassandria rushes over to a magma pond and reaches an arm in. Moments pass and she pulls out a horn that is attached to a fire breathing dragon with volcanic scales! Artemis teleports everyone else to safety. General Crasious and many armies surround the area outside of where the castle used to be. 

"This is the true king of this land. The dragon I slew was a test. As is the one you siphoned! You do not posses as much power as you could intentionally have!" Cassandria stands up and the dragon, with black and white igneous scales, took flight into the air. It circled back down and the Black Knight jumps onto it's back. As drawn on the walls of the cave around them. 

"My Knight has returned and has granted me the gift of flight! Your side, always, and to fight for the right of the land! Honoured and grateful for your desires and actions. I shall mimic them rightful as it has been predicted! " The dragon speaks. Nelven tries a spell and it fails. He becomes shocked over how more immensely powerful this dragon is over his and regretted not unlocking the full potential of his own studies. Fawn ginormous Morgath slams a fist down in attempt to hit the dragon and instead smashes Nelven. The magmatic pair begin their flight thousands of feet into the air near Morgath's face. 

The dragon roars echo across the land and ginormous fawn Morgath can be seen across the oceans. Princess Cassandria and her dragon friend soar high around Morgath. He attempts to knock them out of the air; with no luck. The dragon swipes around the fist of Morgath and circles around his arm. By the time it reaches the face of Morgath, princess Cassandria strikes her blade across Morgath’s face, with the sword retrieved firm the chest of chances. Morgath clenches his face with both hands as the dragon flies away from him.  

Down below, many armies circle around the giant Morgath; ready for what ever the new Queen of the land, Cassandria leads. Little does she realize how much of the land truly supported her father and her as rules. Normal, the princess just stuck with her gut. She raises her blade high in the air! Dream, she had recently been having, scurried through her mind. Morgath punched with the left hand, with the right hand and with both simultaneously. Failed was Morgath and the legendary Black Knight, princess Cassandria, had implemented her skills. Morgath’s fists had clamped together and slammed down at the princess. Her and her dragon soar high above the land. Higher then ever recorded! She raised her sword high in the air and looked up. The crescent shapes of her quilling on the  blade lined up perfectly with the crescent moon lighting up the land. The princess became mesmerized by the interaction. Through her eyes, she was given a most glorious sight! Fast, she snapped put of the vision, bent her elbow behind her with the blade and thusts3d it forward with a straight arm! 

Down below, Zac had taken a good portion of armies to the farthest side of the ginormous fawn Morgath. He looks up into the sky to see Cassandria, the Black Knight, duel with the face and fists of Morgath. Zac looks away in disappointment and worry over not being able to assist. On the other side, General Crasious had begun attacking with many archers, catapults, witches and wizards and anything useful to his command.  

“Surrender now, Black Knight!” Morgath’s voice can be heard throughout the land. He begins to puff his chest out with his arms as fists by his sides. His mouth opens and fills with green. He exhales and green electricity at the dragon and princess. She circles around his body as he follows. Around his neck, under his arm pit, around the elbow, the wrist and around his whole body. Morgath stops and stomps his foot on the ground. All the soldiers fall to the ground, from the earthquake, and many buildings crumble in the town around where King Allanath’s castle used to be. Morgath raises his right fist in the air above his head and the left with an open palm facing away from his body out in front of him. A green barrier forms around his entire body. The dragon and princess are stunned and begin to fall through the air. Morgath smiles and reaches both hands out to grab them. He clasps his hands around them. A pink glow surrounds the Princess’ body and a gold glow surrounds the dragon.  

“Mmm. Fairy magic. I am most pleased that I am not the last ancient individual of this land. Perhaps, they will aid me in a force attack I have not performed for thousands of years.” Speaks the dragon. He flies out of the barrier and high into the sky. Morgath punches the barrier and it cracks. After, Morgath grabs pieces of the barrier and begins to throw them. Princess Cassandria summons her blade and begins to strike the incoming projectiles back at Morgath. The dragon stops. “Protect us as I call upon my strength!” The dragon has many spikes throughout its body. As he straighten his body with head up high and body below him, the princess stands on his spikes to stay afoot. The dragon begins to flap his wings slowly and brings his front claws together. Sparks begins to emit from his talons clashing against one another. The princess attacks all incoming attacks from Morgath. At one point, she hesitates and her foot slips. She did not want to strike the wing of the dragon and is impaled. She falls and grabs the tail of the dragon. Still attacking, the dragon flicks his tail and throws the Black Knight high into the air. The dragon’s body engulfs in flames. He begins to fly around in an abnormal pattern. As projectiles hit the dragon, they are absorbed into his scales.  

“Oh days! I do hope I remember this. I have never taught it to anyone!” The elder fairy appears and stands between the two horns on the head of the dragon. He begins clasping his hands and a golden fore bursts around his body and creates a golden fire stripe along the back of the dragon.  

As the princess falls, she looks up into the now dark star filled sky. She notices the moon is in a crescent shape. She holds her blade above her head, with her left hand, and looks at the two crescent shape quillions on her sword. She lines one up with the moon. Morgath grabs Cassandria and pulls her close to his face. The dragon roars and it echoes throughout the land. His wings stretch out far, tail straightens and head stretches up high. A burst of red and gold fire emits and a cloud fills the area. 

“Dria!” Zac becomes engulfed in fear and rage. He throws a bottle of spider queen blood at the ground and some magic dust. It grows fast into a large egg bigger than him and the horse his rides. It begins to hatch. Four legs break through the shell of the egg and crack open the rest. Zac jumps onto the back of the large arachnid and tears out one of the spikes from its brain. After, he throws more magic dust onto it and it grows even larger. The bard begins to throw more bottles of blood all over the ground, rocks, plants and anything around. Hundreds of spiders emerge. They are hissing and snarling at the large Morgath. Zac attached the spike he removed from the first arachnid to an arrow and set the tip on fire. It slowly burns to where the spike is and he shoots it as high possible up Morgath’s leg. The spiders follow the spike and as soon as the fire hit it, they began enthralled with ferociousness. Morgath’s legs becomes infested with the spiders. At the same time balls of lava and fire began to fall throughout the dark cloud in the sky the dragon and elder fairy had created. Morgath’s leg goes numb from spider venom and he drops to a knee. He refuses to let go of the princess as she is wrapped in his fingers with only her head visible. The dragon lands on the outside of Morgath’s fist and begins to claw and bite at it. 

Morgath flings the dragon off his fist and starts to grab the spiders on his leg. He eats them and grows more eyes and another set of arms. The second set of arms begin to smash down at all of the armies surrounding him. They all pull back and Zacarias becomes more upset. The princess closes her eyes. She begins to speak in a soft whisper. ”My knight, my mage, my dragon, my friends. The surrounding armies with fight till their end. In place of rule of the king now fallen, I accept the rule and all its comings. Let my voice ring, let my voice lead, let me take charge of something never before seen!” 

“Stupid girl! How dare you site an enchantment under royalty!” Morgath shakes Cassandria and the five distinguished pillars around the castle still remained. They all began to glow for each of the mages towers. Artemis pulls out a very old scroll and starts to repeat the same verse over and over while standing in a ring drawn on the ground.  

“We accept her rule, we accept her gain. She has called forth the dragons rain. He is not enraged towards a fight against thee and both stand strong together to set this land free. Earth, Air, Water, Fire, Lighting! Help stop his abuse on your land, help our princess destroy this man! Give her power and the right long lost. No matter what the outcome cost!” Artemis continues the enchantment and many mages, witches, wizards, sorcerers, warlocks, fairies and so many magic using folks and creatures added into the spell. Morgath throws the princess against the ground. The dragon quickly swoops in and catches her. They maneuver around him and together summon a large lava rock and send it towards him. It hits his gut and Morgath stumbles back. He catches wind of Artemis' words and slides his hand across the area his is standing in. Cassandria manages to grab Artemis and pull him onto the dragon without being harmed. 

“Artemis! My mage, my friend! I am afraid this may be our end!” Cassandria shouts. 

“No! We must get this scroll to work! Something is missing!” He shows her the scroll. 

“Yes! I know! Look at the drawing!” She responds.  

“Your sword! It is not the same!” Artemis realizes. 

“I need the full armour to accept rule of the land.” Cassandria tells. 

“Not only the sword and suit, but my will is needed too. I will grant you my title. I am confused to why you can not summon it. Where did you get that crescent blade?” The dragon speaks. 

“The chest of chances!” Cassandria answers. 

“Yes! We can use that to aid us. But, first you must summon it forth. Below on the ground, you must utter its name. To me it is lost and someone must know it. If not? What a shame!” The dragons explains. 

“Set me down on the ground. I will try to find the fairies.” 

“No need. I am here!” Luna lands on Artemis' shoulders. “What is it you need?” 

“The chest of chances! Do you know its name?” Artemis asks. 

“I will ask the elder. Princess! Do be careful, I do not think our enchantment will last much longer and the elder is pretty drained from the dragons rain spell. He needs to teach me that one!” Luna says. 

“Luna!” Cassandria shouts as she pulls out the dagger given to her by the elder fairy. “Might I ask for your services. As a liaison to my rule could I knight you to aid in this duel?” Luna bows and accepts. After, she disappears. 

“Could you set me down? I need to prepare a new circle for the scroll.” The dragon lands near Zacarias. Zac jumps on and squeezes the princess tightly. They return to flight. Morgath begins launching pieces of a barrier at them while breathing green lighting from his mouth again. Both knights reflect the oncoming attacks as the dragon skillfully dodges. They are unable to get close enough to Morgath for a direct attack. 

“Oh what was his name? There was this vendor nearly and won ago. He created the chest. I am just now remembering. Flintson, Winston, Benson, Grayson, Whittimore, Filmore, Jenson, Penson, Weston, oooooo!” The elder begins to think seriously. He stops flying around and closes his eyes, while placing two fingers on each of his temples. “I got it! Welmen Cresp!”  

“Nothing happened!” Luna shouts. 

“Hush! I am still thinking. I remember the day he gave me the chest. I had to…” The elder begins to think again. “Yes! I need a box!" Luna summons one for the elder on a nearby rock. “Now, I need a feather and some dust. I need to carefully place the feather into the box. As it hits the bottom, I need to utter, Welmen Cresp.” The elder throws the fairy dust at the box and the chest if chances appears and opens. “We can not put anything in it, or it will close and turn to how it was when the princess first opened it. I remember when Welmen had placed everything he had owned into this chest. Magic was more common and powerful back then. At the same time, I get this sort of magic and feel we can lock the Baronet inside this! We may never be able to open it again, unless the universe seems it necessary or we performed the ritual again. Tell the princess!” Luna disappears. Shortly after the dragon lands with Dria and Zac. Artemis begins to read his scroll again and Luna pulls Zacarias near the circle and tells him they have to be present for the ritual to work. Dria knights a nearby witch and General Crasious into her court. Princess Cassandria now has five members of her court.  

Morgath leans down to Princess Cassandria’s face. “Tell me princess? Are you ready to surrender? Or shall I just smoosh all of you? Why have you brought the empty chest here?” 

“Tell me Morgath? Do you know what this blade is?” Cassandria holds her blade up and positions it in place with the moon. The moon's shine disappears from the blade and from the sky. Everything goes pitch black dark. The sound of a blade tapping on the top of the chest can be heard. The moons light shines from out of the box and covers Morgath’s entire body. The moon in the sky begins to shine brightly and the two crescents break off from the handle of the blade. Cassandria sees and opening in the chest appear. She slams her sword down into the opening and picks up the two fallen crescents. She hops onto the back of the dragon and soars into the sky. Morgath is struggling with the white glow around him. Cassandria holds a crescent under her armpit and throws it at Morgath’s face. She repeats on the other side of his face and both crescents become lodged above his eye brows. A ghostly form of the fawn Morgath leaves the moon and enters the real ones body. It passes through him and pulls all of the fawn form into the chest. After, the princess slams the chest shut. It reopens and her original Black Knight blade appears floating. She grabs it and takes to flight with her dragon again. Baronet Morgath is struggling on the ground as he soon returned to his normal self. The dragons grabs him and tosses him into the air. Cassandria jumps on him and the two slam into the ground.  

Morgath summons his blade and the two begin to duel. Witches aiding the Baronet circle around and create a barrier; preventing the dragon from entering. Artemis begins the enchantment again. This time, the five pillars surrounding the area begin to glow. Soon after, each pillar pours itself into each member of Cassandria’s court. The witches freeze the Black Knight and Baronet Morgath begins to strike her neck repeatedly. The helm crack again, and is thruster off of her head. He begins to swing in for a final slam to her throat. The princess disappears, along with her court and the dragon. The five pillars create a white cage around the area. Baronet and his followers are all trapped within. 

Baronet Morgath and his followers, trapped within the cage by the pillars, begin preparing a very large circle on the ground. Afterwards, Morgath stands in the center of it and begins an enchantment with many magically gifted followers surrounding the circle to aid in his power. Shortly after, many soldiers rise from the ground to aid him. They were of the undead appearance. Skeletons, rotting flesh, bruises, burns, cuts, gashes, missing limbs and anything related to something dead or decomposing. So many rise within the barrier, that they begin to summon outside of the barrier and attack. At first, the armies are able to disperse of them easily. Time passes and the Baronet emits a large enough amount of emergent to rise thousands from the ground outside if the barrier. A war broke out with casualties on both sides. The Baronet redirected his magic against the barrier imprisoning him. 

Somewhere…… 

Princess Cassandria was standing in the middle of Zacarias, Artemis, General Crasious, Luna and a witch kneeling down bowing to her. Everyone is wearing matching garments in different colours. Zacarias is yellow and gold. Artemis in blue and silver. General Crasious in red and black. Luna in pink and orange. The witch in green and brown. Cassandria was in a exquisite long gown made of lace and silk. All around appeared to be clouds; endless. 

At the same time everyone spoke to the princess simultaneously, “Princess!” 

“Queen!” The dragon flew over their heads and landed beyond everyone. He sits with his wings out. Everyone from her court stands and takes a place by her side. Slowly, the princess approaches the dragon. “Princess no more. Are you ready for what is in store?” A bright light blind everyone. As the regain their vision, the dragon wraps his wings around his body. The Black Knight stood. The original. Tall and robust, he stares at Cassandria. She looks into the darkness of where his eyes should be; now knowing what she had made others feel for so long in his armour. He takes a few steps forth towards her and holds his hand out. She accepts his gesture and he walks her to the dragon. The dragon opens his wings and opens his front claws out. The Black Knight positions the princess within his arms. After, he draws his blade and stabs it through her chest. She grabs the blade and hunches over. At the same time, the dragon jumps and digs all of his claws and tail through her body. After, he bites the Black Knight's  shoulder and warps his wings around both the princess and Black Knight. Another flash blinds everyone. The court opens their eyes to find themselves near each of the pillars creating the caged barrier. To their shock, they see the conflict and battle going on. On each of the pillars a formation of a hand indented within them. Everyone places their hands in and they fit perfectly. 

All of the energy creating the barrier encasing the Baronet dismisses. Instead, all the energy shoots from the pillars in one place. The new queen of the land is animated from the energy. Her Black Knight's armour has altered and does not cover all over her body. Her stomach, back, thighs, upper arms, shoulders and face are uncovered. From her back, a set of black dragon wings were visible out of her skin. Along her shoulders and upper arms spikes were lodged within her skin; the same that were on the dragon. Upon her head, a black crown with the same two horns as her Black Knight’s helmet were present within a crown. She looks across the land; directly into the Baronet’s eyes. Her left arm raises above her head and right straight out to her side. Her sword appears within her hand and a shield I her other. The shield is quickly pulled in front of her as some of the undead army attacks. When they hit the shield, they are turned into lava. Cassandria takes steps through the puddles with ease as others are ignited immediately as they touch it. 

The Baronet raises his sword and begins an enchantment. All around him green lighting emits. A cloud of smoke obscures his position. Cassandria keeps walking. Indeed soldiers attack left and right and she slashes them down with her sword. She does not make any eye contact and has her focus directly to the cloud of smoke and lighting. She jumps in the air and dives down to the center of the cloud. Her wings disperses the smoke and her sword impacts the ground. The Baronet is nowhere to be found. His magical supporters all begin to laugh and disappear themselves. 

Zacarias began to eliminate as many undead as he could. In no time, the bard had aided in his fight. “Sir! Side by side, do we strive. In this battle, we will certainly thrive! Together we have ventured to this needed land. I am proud to call you my friend! I will stay here by you, even if I die!” 

“Thanks! It will be them who dies! Keep an eye and focus!” Zacarias answers.  

Luna is drawn back to the vines. The elder and other fairies are waiting upon her. She approaches the elder and he hands her a book. She places her hand upon it and much magic is absorbed into her body. She nearly faints, but catches herself. The she raises her head and looks into the elders eyes. She nods and pats her on the shoulder as she turns around and returns to the battlefield. The witch begins to cast all sorts of spells. She runs into some supporting the Baronet and is saved by more than support Cassandria. They all take to their brooms and attack from the sky. Artemis is greeted by many mages and they all take to using each other to amplify one another abilities against the enemies. General Crasious is greeted by his other three sons. They give him a horse and all of his army raises their weapons. They shout and begin to scatter around throughout the battle. 

Cassandria looks around and can now see for miles through the battlefield. Nowhere can she find the Baronet. Suddenly, she can here his voice. She closes her eyes. In her mind, she can see the Baronet at the eleven kingdom. He is conducting another ritual. She can feel and hear the dragon soul within him shouting for help. She opens her eyes and disperses her blade. She raises both hands above her head with palms up and finger bent. Her wings lift her off the ground some and she slams both hands into the ground with her body now upside down. The ground crack around her. Slowly, she starts to draw a ghostly dragon out of the ground by his tail. The Baronet drops to the ground and starts to grab his body all over in pain whole screaming. Cassandria manages to pull the lighting dragon’s power out of Morgath’s body. The ghostly dragon flies around and looks at Cassandria. It nods at her and shouts loudly across the land. From there, he flies into the stars and disappears. A few more roars can be heard from other areas of the land. The water, air and earth dragon appear. They begin to aid in the battle.  

Cassandria closes her eyes and can no longer see or hear the Baronet. She finds Artemis and grabs a special flare from him. Just as before, she launches it into the air and an image can be seen if her. This time, she facing the eleven kingdom with her right arm out in front of her. She begins to gesture her finger to come forth. “I am waiting Baronet Morgath! Meet me on the battlefield and truly face me to the end. Or cowardly let me drain your magic as I devour all of your minions here!” Cassandria’s voice can be heard throughout the land. The image of her fades and she begins to slaughter many of the undead army. 

Luna finds her and the two fly into the air. Together they summon dragon rain. The other dragons join in and leave fire, earth thorns, water icicles, and devastating wind currents, begin to wipe out many. Unfortunately, the affects nail anyone in the way. Artemis and the mages begin to create force fields to protect as many as possible. The witches start to cast protection spells and the fairies ate healing wounds. Zacarias is protected by Ye’s magic. At one point he finds the princess in combat with dozens at one time. 

She stretches her wings out and slices through some if their bodies. He sword impaled anyone in front of her. As some would attack from the sides, she would launch heavy hard lava rocks at them. A leap in the air and the undead soldiers would smack into one another. A dive down and she would impact them with everything combined. She stops and stares for a moment while breathing heavily. She turns around fast and sees Zac. She smiles and he grabs her wrist and pulls her in close. Her wings wrap around them as they kiss. When undead attacked, they would turn to lava as they hit her wings. She lifted them both into the air. With the battle taking place, she landed Zac safely and flew off to continue to win the war. 

The undead soldiers are being defeated. Queen Cassandria is eliminating them easily. She soars above the ground and slices through many with her wings, sword and shield. The other dragons are at her command. Inside her body she can still sense the dragon she befriended years ago. In her heart, she worries over remaining as this form forever. She thinks of her family and friends; hoping they are alright and safe. To her knowledge, the battle is within the area of her crumbled castle. More and more throughout the land begin to aid in the battle. She can see with greater vison and even the trolls have arrived to aid in the conflict. Across the oceans, ships are nearing to side with her and her rule. Where the mages towers used to stand, circles begin to forge through the rubble. Mages and other magically abled beings are teleporting in need of her actions. Many worried over the Baronet in his enlarged fawn form and could see him across the oceans. At the same time, ancient magics, scrolls and powers began to resonate, not only on her land, but the others around the world. Cassandria stops in the center of the five pillars. She closes her eyes and taps into the magic of the pillars. With the left hand, she raises the Black Knights sword and the pillars begin to glow. Everyone takes notice and her court all stop and close their eyes. They now have the abilities of the corresponding pillars magic of their attires. They hear Cassandria’s call and send power into her. 

“Ah, ha, ah!” The Baronet’s face becomes visible in the sky. “Call upon the magic of this land all you wish, but the Lighting tower is under rule of the elves. As stated in decision of this land. We shall see how your powers reside in a few moments. I accept your challenge, to the death, on the battlefield! I will see you shortly.” 

Cassandria is angered and slams her sword into the ground below her. Her knees bend and one touches the ground. From below, many of the undead are extinguished by the five elemental powers. Earth, Air, Water, Fire and Lighting attack. Suddenly, Zacarias falls to the ground shouting. Cassandria rushes through the battlefield to his aid swiftly. Dodging opponents, allies and not even attacking along the way, she focuses strictly on Zac. His face becomes pale as he holds himself up on his hands and knees. Cassandria flips him over and rests him on her lap. She begins to brush his face with her hands. He reaches up, weak and shaking, to grab her left hand. He grasps it and pulls it to his heart. Very slowly, his grip loosens and his eyes shut. Below his eyes are black and purple bags. Part of his cheeks have caved in and much of his muscles have atrophied.  

“Zac?” Cassandria whispers. Her hands shake and eyes water. She hovers her opened hands around his face. She takes deep breaths and closes her eyes. Ye places his hand on Cassandria’s shoulder. She looks at his hand and up at him. Her face quiets sadness and forms to sorrow. A straight stare with eyes nearly closed and a closed mouth. She grabs his arm with her tail and holds Zac in her arms as she flies into the sky. Within the nearby town, was a garden dedicated to a healer who saved many of the land from a plight. Cassandria rests Zacarias on a bed of flowers. She takes steps away from him slowly. She nods at Ye Joe Free and takes off. Some townsfolk begin to aid the unconscious knight and Ye strums his harp. Musical notes flow out to help sooth and ease Zacarias. 

Along the way back to the battlefield, Luna appears next to Cassandria. “What happened?” She asks. 

“The Baronet has control of the Lighting tower. The pillars will not respond. He is some how absorbing the life energy of Zacarias.” Cassandria responds. 

“You still have your form?” Luna flies around the queens body fast to examine it. “The dragon's magic must be separate.” 

“Yes. In fact, I need the chest again.” Cassandria stops above the battle and looks at Luna. She looks down at Artemis and everyone else. They are all struggling. The undead has begun to re rise after being struck down. More and more are appearing faster than they previously were.  

“But?” Luna hesitates. She nods and flies down to the ground. A glimmering beam catches Cassandria’s eye. Before she can distinguish the source, she is tackled. The Baronet had regained his fawn form with multiple arms and eyes. The horns on his head lodged into her torso and began to burn her body. Smoke rose and Cassandria attempted to pull the horns out. With no luck, she wraps her wings around the Baronet’s body and herself. She spins them through the air and crashes into the ground roughly. They slide and before stopping the two jump away from one another, with a defensive stance, and glare each one another down.  

The Baronet Morgath slides his hoof along the ground and puffs air put of his nostrils., while turning his head left to right. Cassandria flicks her tail and positions her wings behind her slightly bent while raising an eye brow. The two rush one another. They raise there arms high in the air and grab hands; to test there strength in old tradition of fists. They seem evenly matched and can not force either of each other back. Their arms rebound from one another. Both stumble forward and off to the side. Quickly, Cassandria turns around and attempts to slash her tail at the Baronet. He jumps out of the way. While bringing his hands together, they both glow green and emit lighting. He pushes his hand forward and launches the lighting at Cassandria. She wraps her wings around herself and is protected. With perfect timing, he stops the attack and she throws her shield. It hit his face and his body is rotated to the side. Spit falls to the ground and he turns back with a manically aggressive facial expression to her. He snarls and rushes in at her. Green lighting emits from his feet and around his body. Cassandria jumps and flies into the air. As she falls, she lands on the back of the Baronet. He attempts to grab her and is unsuccessful. Her arms wrap around his neck as he starts to spin them around in circles. His neck rises and arms begin to grab hers as she chokes him. He gasped for air and stops grabbing her arms. His right arm raises out diagonally in the air. Clouds fill the air and it becomes very dark; nearly impossible to see. The staff summons to the Baronet’s hand. Re forged good as new! When his hand clutches the staff rain begins to fall and lighting zaps the queen off of his back. She falls to the ground and the Baronet stabs her wing down the staff and stands on the other with a hoof. He walks onto her body and stabs her in the heart with the staff. She grabs his leg and pushes herself off the ground with her wings. The two struggle with strengths against one another. Again, lighting strikes her and she falls to the ground. Cassandria looks to the side and can see across the battle. Luna and Artemis had the chest of chances summoned again. As she looks back at the Baronet, she launched a lava rock at him and takes a stand. Thinking of what to do, Morgath starts to absorb energy from the staff. Slowly, he grows larger. Not as before, but he is now twice her size. She looks up at him in his eyes. Her sword and shield is summoned. A block with the shield and an slash with the blade he hits his staff on the shield and strikes with his sword. The two begin to battle. The sound of brutal impacts echoes over and over. The queen jumps back and undead summon around her. They dive at her and turn into lava. A pool is all around her. The Baronet smiles and walks into it without any affect to him. They return to battling and lava is being splashed around. Fires break out and the water dragon puts them out, while the earth dragon restores the damaged earth. A gust if wind pushes the Baronet away from the queen. He summons two more swords for his hands and casts a barrier around himself to prevent the dragons from attacking. While he is distracted, Cassandria flies to the chest of chances. Unknowingly, the dragons all followed her with the Baronet somewhat far behind.  

She taps on the top of the chest with her sword and it opens. The crescent blade returns. Her sword floats out of her hand and into the chest. Her armour and dragon likeness begins to fade. She grabs the crescent blade and it begins to glow as bright as the moon. Before the chest shut, she was impacted by the dragons. One after another, they surrendered their abilities to her. The spikes and scales of her body and armour change to different colours. This was painful and she clenched her face. Her arm flies into the air with the crescent blade as she falls to the ground. Her left arm becomes frozen in the air, while her right arm catches herself on the ground. A roar echoes across the land. The cloud part some and the crescent moon can been seen. It reacts to the blade. A large ghostly form of the Lighting dragon appears throughout the sky. It flies down and enters Cassandria’s body. 

Back in the gardens of the town…… 

Zacarias was unconscious for much time. Ye and many others watch over him carefully as it appeared he was losing his life. Suddenly, he sits up and open his eyes. Looking up at the moon, he holds his hands above his head. A ghostly form of the Lighting dragon entered his body. The pillars reactivate and the queens court regains their new abilities. Slowly, Zacarias is filled with new life and restored to his old self. The bard rushes in and hugs him. Zac snaps out of his daze. 

“Dria!” Zacarias shouts. He stands up fast and takes off running to her. 

Cassandria stretches her wings out and looks into the air. Her arms stretch out and the ground trembles. The army of the undead is drug back into the ground against their will. Baronet Morgath draws a circle on the ground and a group of mages in cloaks, covering their faces, gathers around him. One by one, he consumes the mages life energy from them. His magical abilities heighten and he pulls Cassandria to the ground by magic. She takes to flight in the air. A barrier prevents her from going very far. The Baronet is laughing and strikes with lighting attacked repeatedly. The queen encases herself with her wings for protection. Morgath wraps her in chains. She attempts to break free; with no luck. Her wings shift some and the chains begin to constricts. The Baronet charges in with his blades and staff to strike her head.  

The sound of flesh ripping, tearing, gnashing and being severed can be heard. The chains all fall to the ground. All of the stars go dark and the moon. It is pitch black. The sound of blood dripping onto the ground can be heard. The crescent blade appears glowing and as before, the two crescent shapes fall from the handle. Another sound of flesh being impacted is heard. The two crescents are thrown and boomeranged back. More flesh is impaled. The moon begins to shine brightly.  

Zacarias is running through the town and back to the battlefield where King Allanath’s castle used to be. Along the way, he is ambushed by undead. He does his best to fend them off with bare fists. In an attempt to knock one down, the undead soldiers are all pulled into the ground. The spell to rise them has been ceased and the tide of the war has shifted. Zac worries over the princess. He has seen a few possible outcomes of the battle. He first reaches General Crasious at the Fire pillar.  

“Can you believe this!” General Crasious is launching fire balls left and right. “I never used magic in my life and can not wait to converse over it with my son!” 

“You have to give it up!” Zacarias tells him sternly. 

General Crasious relaxes himself and turns to face Zacarias. The two stare at one another. He chuckles some. “From one warrior to another, I can see truth within your eyes. I will.” He nods at Zacarias and Zac takes off running to the next pillar. He explains and convinces everyone of the court to stop using the pillars magic. They all agree and cease their attacks being provided by the pillars magic. In front of  everyone, they gaze at the pillars. The shape of their hands forms within them again. No one places their palms into the indentations. All sit on their feet and close their eyes. In their minds, they become linked. Zacarias shares the images of what could happen. Everyone is summoned around Queen Cassandria. They see her in chains and the Baronet rushing in to attack. 

Cassandria is struggling within the chains. Just before Morgath could attack, her tail strikes him through his heart. It becomes punctured. All of his body freezes. The chains fall to the ground. Everything goes dark. Cassandria raises her crescent blade in the air and lines one of the crescents with the moon. The light it usually emits, disperses and the crescent shaped fall to the ground. Cassandria slices the Baronet with the blade as her tail is still lodged through his body. The blade levitates above their heads. She throws the crescent blades past him and they boomerang back. They lodge into his back. So much blood is pouring on the ground. The moon illuminates and lights up the land. The sword glows so bright, it blinds everyone, but the queen. A glow shoots down from the moon into the sword. From there, the sword drops and divides the Baronet’s body in two. Cassandria tips her tail out, with his heart attached at the end. Baronet Morgath is no more.  

Zacarias, Artemis, General Crasious, the witch and Luna all take a stand. Simultaneously, they speak. “Queen Cassandria.” All of the pillars explode! Magic pours out and into each member of the court. They hold their open palms forward towards Cassandria. The magic pours from their bodies into hers. She falls to the ground on her hands and knees. The first dragon exits, her body. Each one exits and the Lighting dragon regains his full body again. The last to exit, is the one she battled with and befriend. He grabs by his tail and flings her onto his body. The ground shakes and another ginormous ghostly form of Baronet Morgath appears. Her armour returns to that of the Black Knight. Only, her helm was still the crown. She grabs the crescent blade and pulls another large glow from the moon. It attacks the ghostly Baronet and he is drawn back into the ground. His head reaches up and grasps Cassandria and the dragon. He manages to squeeze the drawing and break every bone and scale of its body. Cassandria is protected by her armour. A second glow exits the moon and causes the Baronet to release her. As she falls, she looks up at the moon one final time. It is directly above her and the glow passes through her body to. She drops the blade and passes out. Below her the ground is exposed to the magma beneath the land. Her dragon falls first and makes a large splash. Shortly after, Cassandria is submerged into the magma beneath the land. 

“Dria!” Zacarias screams. 

“Princess!” Artemis falls to the ground and hugs himself with his eyes shut. 

“No!” Everyone else adds in. 

All throughout the land, everyone is speechless. The sun begins to rise in the distance. Many begins their travels home. Everyone of the court just sits on the edge of the land looking down into the magma. Birds begin to sing and animals are grazing. Luna tries to cheer up Zacarias with no luck. 

Artemis places a hand on his shoulder. “It will pass. We all should carry on.” 

“Yeah… I just need some time. You all go on. I will stay here for a while. I need to think.” Zacarias responds.  

“To all on the land, he wishes to hold her hand. Sorrow will fill, even tomorrow. She fought boldly and will remain in our hearts. Truly, we all will never part. Here my harp. It stuns, this battle has been won. Can we remain and be back the same? Most likely not, but here we shall make something to honour all this. At this very spot. Nobel and true, what on earth shall we all do?” The Bard sings. 

Zacarias is staring into the depths of the lava from atop of the edge high above the river of magma. This was a daily routine for him the last couple days. Dreading over the loss of his love, the win of the battle,  and trying to fine reason to move on. 

Suddenly, a black and white ingenious fist raised from the magma. Zacarias notices this and jumps down into the depth with magic around him. He rolls and takes no damage. The hand opens and relaxes to an open palm. Zac grabs it and pulls it slowly toward him. Slowly and gracefully, a large dragon rises from behind flinging much lava all over the place. Queen Cassandria walks out of the hot molten magma of the stream fully healed, and ready to battle having armour exactly matching the dragons. She looks into Zacarias' eyes and smiles. He pulls her close and wraps both arms around her with much happiness, gratitude, and more importantly love. The two embrace one another kissing within their armours. 

Narrator: The Black Knight, risen from the volcanic rivers below the land surfaces once again and the platinum Knight said to take on more enemies than one can imagine and defeat many solely on their own lead to live on aiding others. All leading to......