Soul Cursed Protector
Chapter 2: Friends And Enemies Meet

King Edward stood outside the gates of Drasal, patiently awaiting for the arrival of Alistair and his men, along with the Dark Ones that followed behind.

“I see Lord Alistair and his knights.” the lookout shouted. “Tis odd. They are being followed by men in Black armor, be they demons? King Edward, did you hear me?”

King Edward ignored the lookouts warnings, and lifted his sword up to his face whispering, “Old friend. I am in need of your power once again, for one last battle.” the King lifted the blade above his head, “I am not going to let you harm my knights, or my people. Go back to hell Dark Knights.” King Edward started to chant loudly in an odd language, “Ke, Nome, Me Jah, Ki.” his eyes turned as red as the sun, the armor he wore had become consumed by flames. Everyone that was watching was in aw over what they were witnessing, not a single person knew King Edward still possessed such power.

Once Alistair and his men made it inside the city safely, the king went into action. “I

unleash the flames of hell upon thee.” King Edward screamed, before he slashed the blade through the air unleashing a blinding bright light. When the blinding light faded, the Dark Knights, along with the horses they were on had vanished into thin air. Were they vaporized? Or were they burned into nothing more than ash? Only the King knew the answer. But none of that mattered, for his knights and the people of Drasal were saved.

Alistair jumped off his horse and made his way over to King Edward, it didn’t matter to him what he had just witnessed, it was more important that the king know of the situation. “Your Majesty. The Dark Knights have burned down the village of Cremshaw to the ground. There was none to survive except for that child that Gawain holds. Also, it seems as though they were searching for something, but I am unsure of what that is, my King. What should be our next move?”

King Edward was very weak, using that attack almost took all the life he had left, but he refused to show it. Any sign of weakness could spell disaster, even from his own knights. “Alistair, head for

the castle with the rest of your men. We shall talk about things later, for now I need a word with young Gawain over there.”

“Understood, my King.” Alistair replied, he bowed and took his leave.

King Edward walked over to where Caine and Gawain were standing, having a conversation.

“Where did the child come from?” Caine asked.

“I found him hiding outside the hut.” Gawain lied to Caine, remembering the promise he had made to the boys father, and he intended to keep it.

“Do you really expect me to believe that?” “It’s the truth.”

Before Caine could speak another word King Edward appeared beside them, “Are you Gawain?” the King asked.

Caine turned around as if he was going to give a smart ass reply, but that had changed once he realized that it was King Edward. “Your Majesty.” Caine said as he bowed. “My name is Caine, this here is Gawain.”

King Edward smiled, “Thank you for being humble, Caine.” he said. “If you don’t mind I would like a word in private with Gawain.”

“Of course my Lord. I will take my leave at once.” Caine replied in the utmost manner, he bowed then humbly walked away, leaving King Edward alone with Gawain and the child.

King Edward looked at the child then back at Gawain, “What is this child’s name?”

“I do not know, your Majesty. For the boy does not speak out of fear.” Gawain answered. “Hmm, maybe when he is more comfortable he will speak. May I also ask where you found the

boy?”

Gawain looked around to make sure there was no one listening in, before he explained everything that had transpired to King Edward. “I see. That is an unnerving tale, young Gawain. If what you say is true then I fear we are all in grave danger.” King Edward said with an eerie look in his eyes.

“How so?”

“That does not concern you, you should worry about that child, and your promise to his father.

Remember, that boy could hold the key to saving us all.” King Edward went to walk away, but Gawain was quick to stop him.

“Your Majesty. I almost forgot to tell you, that man also told me to give you a message “the time has come” was his last words. He said you would understand.” Gawain explained.

Gawain’s words seemed to upset King Edward in some way, “Gawain take that boy to the Academy, make sure he’s clothed and feed at once. Also you are here by ordered to become a Master of the Academy, and teacher of the arts to this boy and all others as well. Remember your promise well, young Gawain.” King Edward turned and stormed off towards the castle.

Gawain was confused, and also conflicted with the Kings demands, he wanted to become a Knight Of Valor, not some Master at the Academy. However the King had spoken and he could not go up against the orders given to him. And Gawain did have a promise to keep. “You heard our King.” Gawain looked down at the boy smiling. “Let us be on our way to the Academy.” he picked the child up in his arms and carried him all the way there.

King Edward was already back at the castle, greeted by Chamberlain Ballard as he was on his way to his sleeping quarters. “My Lord, such a great victory and display of power. Those Dark Knights will think twice before they try that again.” Ballard said gleefully. King Edward did not replace Ballard’s words amusing, he pushed straight past Ballard and into his chambers, slamming the door behind him. Ballard just stood there laughing quietly, “Soon all my dreams shall come true, and I will rule the lands. Nothing will stand in my way once King Edward is dead.”

King Edward was alone in his chambers, he threw his blade to the floor, and started yanking off his armor, throwing it around the room in a fit of rage. “Damn those vile Dark Ones. You killed my best friend. Why him and not me? Damn it all to hell.” he was screaming like a mad man. His fit of rage took the last bit of energy left in him. King Edward collapsed onto the floor exhausted. Edward laid there with no strength to move, all he could do was think about his fallen friend. Bowen, how could the

Dark Knights have killed you? You were one of the best, even better than me. It was you that was destined to be King, not I. But you chose to leave and never return, I could never understand the reasoning behind that decision. But I think I do now, my old friend.

Back at the Academy, Gawain had his own issues to deal with, especially with Head Master

Baird. “You bring a child of a pig farmer here and expect him to join the Academy?” Baird shouted. “I have no noble blood in me, and yet I was accepted into the Academy. Why should it be any

different for this child?” Gawain replied.

“I can’t explain that, Gawain. Or you could say that I refuse to do so.” Baird snapped back. “You have no choice in the matter, Baird. King Edward ordered me to bring him here, he is to

eat, have some different clothing, and train here at the Academy.” Gawain said loudly. “One more thing, Baird. I am to become a master at this Academy now, that is also the Kings orders. You can talk to the him about these arrangements, if you like.”

Baird was none to happy with the news, but not even he was stupid enough to challenge King Edward when he gives out orders. “If that is truly the Kings wishes, then I don’t have a choice in the matter.” he said. Baird then turned his attention to the little boy, “What is your name? And be quick to answer, I haven’t the time for dilly dallying.” the boy refused to answer, only hid behind Gawain’s back.

“It’s okay. Baird may seem mean but he’s actually a nice guy. Besides, we can’t just keep on calling you child the whole time, now can we.” Gawain said with a calming voice.

The boy peeked out from around Gawain’s back and whispered, “My name is Leon.”

Baird walked somewhat closer to the boy and looked down at him, “Your last name child, what is your last name?” Baird was a very intimidating man, with his gray beard, and long gray hair, the scar on his face did not help matters either.

However the child still answered his question with little hesitation, “Cromwell. Leon Cromwell.” the boy hid himself back behind Gawain.

Baird’s eyes widened, it seemed as though hearing the boys name had shocked him in someway. “Gawain, take him to the quarters where all the young boys stay, see that all of his needs are met. I will see to it that the counsel is informed of this, and then the hard work starts afterwards. Now be gone with you both.”

Gawain had a feeling that Baird also knew of who the boy really was, just like the King did. But asking any questions would be a bad idea, especially with the way Baird was acting at the moment. “Follow me Leon, I will take you to where you need to go.” as Gawain was walking down the hall, on the way to the sleeping quarters, he would point out what room was what to Leon. “That room there is for the study of Alchemy or magic, which ever you would prefer. Oh and this one is for the study of Ancient Weapons.” the next room they came across Gawain stopped for a moment and sighed.

“What is wrong?” Leon mumbled.

Gawain looked at the boy and smiled, “Seems as though someone has found his voice again.” he jokingly said. “Do not worry about my troubles, Leon. This is just the class to train for KnightHood, and I used to be in it. But my fate is of another now.” he was done showing Leon around and pointed on ahead, “Lets get you on to the quarters before Baird has both our hides.” Gawain nudged Leon forward. When they approached the quarters, Gawain seen there were still a couple of young boys hanging around, he figured this would be the perfect time to introduce them to their new guest. “Hey, guys” he shouted. “Come here, I want you to meet someone.” The two young lads came walking over, and neither looked much older than Leon either. “Who is that?” one of the boys asked.

“Well if you would give me a chance, I will introduce you to him.” Gawain answered.

“Just hurry up, Gawain. We have an Alchemy class to get to, and I don’t want to be on Lady Catherine’s bad side.” the other boy hissed.

“You know if you would just show up on time Henry, you wouldn’t get into so much trouble.” Gawain scolded.

“And if I wanted an old mans opinion, I would ask for it.” Henry replied back.

If anything got to Gawain it was being called an old man, you could call him anything else, and say anything you wanted about him, but never call him an old man. “Why do you always have to call me old? I am but a few years your senior. Have some respect, for I am soon to be a Master at this academy.” Gawain had now forgotten that he had Leon with him, and the whole reason he was on his way to the quarters in the first place. For now he was in a full on shouting match with Henry, back and forth the two went on until the other boy ignored the two, and introduced himself to Leon instead.

“Hi my name is, Ulric. You must already know Gawain, and the boy he’s shouting at is, Henry.” he went to shake Leon’s hand, but Leon refused, he was still somewhat scared. “Still scared huh? Don’t worry, I was the same when I first arrived here, it can be a scary place at first. Don’t worry, everyone here is very nice, when they want to be that is. Even, Henry of course. He’s just grumpy because he has yet to eat.” Ulric was doing all he could to earn Leon’s trust, but for some reason it wasn’t working, and all the shouting definitely wasn’t helping either, so he tried another way. “Can I at least ask your name?”

“My name is, Leon.” the boy whispered nervously.

“Well, Leon. First you have to SPEAK A LITTLE LOUDER AROUND HERE IF YOU WANT OTHERS TO HEAR YOU!!” Ulric screamed out, just to get the attention of Gawain and Henry.

“What’s all the screaming about, Ulric?” Henry hissed.

Ulric shook his head, “Don’t we have a class to be at? Or did you forget?”

Suddenly Gawain remembered what he was supposed to be doing in the first place, and talked in place of Henry. “Ah, that reminds me. Since I am running out of time, I order the two of you to look after Leon here for the day. Make him feel welcomed or else.”

It didn’t take long for Henry to start running his mouth again, voicing how displeased he was, “What? We don’t have to take orders from you old man, I’m not your babysitter either. We’re the kids everyone else looks up to, we don’t need him ruining that for-”

Ulric interrupt before Henry could say another word, “Shut your mouth, Henry. Leon is coming with us, like it or not.” he starred down Henry, “Or do you have a problem with that?”

Henry frowned at the thought, “Whatever, Ulric. You win, he can follow along. But he better not get in the way, or I will be none to happy. Besides, I’ m hungry, and don’t have the strength to argue.”

“Before I forget, Ulric.” Gawain chimed in. “Inform Lady Catherine that Leon is a new student here, that way I can avoid her myself.” trying to act as though he wanted nothing to do with her even though the look in his eyes said otherwise. Gawain didn’t say another word, he just turned and walked off down the hall in a hurry.

“Now that he’s gone we had better be on our way as well. We’re already running late so this should be fun.” Ulric said sarcastically.

Moments later, the three boys had arrived at the Alchemy room but before they went in, Henry decided he had a brilliant idea to keep them out of trouble. “Listen up, you two. I think we should sneak into class. Lady Catherine will never notice us, remember there’s not time to argue with me either. Be best to just follow my lead.”

“I’m not sure I like this, but you are right, we don’t have the time to argue.” Ulric responded. He looked back at Leon, “Stay close by, okay.” Leon nodded in agreement with Ulric, it’s not like he had a choice. Leon didn’t know much of his surroundings like the others did, also he had to much on his mind to even care.

“Follow me, but do so quietly.” Henry told them. He was the first to sneak inside the room, Henry looked around the class, seeing only a handful of the other students had seen them, but they were

friends of his and would not dare to snitch. So he waved for Ulric and Leon to join him, believing the cost was clear, however he couldn’t have been more wrong. As soon as Ulric and Leon was just about caught up to Henry, something happened to their bodies and they could no longer move, not even a muscle. Henry turned back and noticed how they were both just squatting down in place not moving. Henry went to wave them both over again, but he also could not move a single muscle either. Henry wondered what was going on, as did Ulric, until they both heard a voice shouting all the way from the other side of the class room.

“Look behind you everyone. We seem to have some untimely guests in our presence. I wonder why they are just squatting there, do they need to go to the outhouses?” the voice was none other than that of Lady Catherine’s, she must have cast a spell of movement upon the young boys, to keep them in place.

The whole class turned around to see who Lady Catherine was referring to, that’s when laughter filled the room. Three boys were being pointed at, talked about, and most of all, laughed at. It was the most embarrassing thing that could have ever happened to Henry, and there was nothing he could do about it. Ulric on the other hand could have cared less of what the others thought of him anyways, never did matter to him. Poor Leon was scarred out of his mind yet again, he had been through enough for one day and just wanted it to end.

Lady Catherine made it a point to slowly walk around the boys, scolding them in front of the rest of the class, “You see class, this is what happens when you are careless. This is also what happens when one is untimely and shows not a care in the world for anyone, or anything.” she stopped to look back at the rest of her class.“Never think that I don’t see all, because I do!” Lady Catherine shifted her focus back on the boys. “And I will have swift punishment brought upon all three of you boys.” and that’s when she noticed an unfamiliar face. “Wait a minute, I don’t remember you. Just who are you boy?” she released the spell on the three boys so Leon could answer. “I know, Henry and Ulric. But I’ve

never seen you before now, child. So answer me, who are you?”

Leon was so frightened that he could barely even utter a word, Ulric decided he would try and answer for him, “He is frightened, Lady Catherine. Also-”

“I did not ask you, hold your tongue.” Lady Catherine shouted. She turned her attention back on, Leon. “If you cannot answer me because of fear, I shall use another method to get the answer I seek.” she knelt down in front of him and whispered. “It is alright child, I shall not hurt you. Just look me in the eyes, try your best not look away. If you do this, all shall be made clear to me.” Leon found her voice soothing and comforting in a way that he could not explain, without even thinking twice he did exactly what was asked of him. He starred straight into Lady Catherine’s eyes, and not once did he attempt to look away.

Not a single one of the students in the room, including Ulric nor Henry knew of what Lady Catherine had seen through Leon’s eyes. But it was enough to make her facial expression change to that of worry, almost as if what she had seen frightened her. Without uttering a single word, Lady Catherine bolted out of the room in a major rush. Which confused everyone, and worried all the students in the room.

Back at Gawain’s sleeping quarters, he was putting things away getting ready to head for different classes, forced upon him by King Edward. He wasn’t much paying attention to anything else, and was deep in thought about the trials that laid in wait for him. When Alistair rushed through the door and into his room, it made Gawain jump and reach for his blade.

“Calm yourself.” Alistair took a step back with his hands raised in the air. “Just here to ask a question or two.”

“Lord Alistair.” Gawain sighed, and put his sword back on his bed. “Sorry, you startled me is all. To what do I owe this honorable visit?”

Alistair lowered his hands, wasting no time in saying what was on his mind. “When you found

the boy, did he have anything on him? Like an amulet of sorts.”

Gawain could feel his heart start to race, How does he know of the amulet? he thought to himself, but remained composed, even in the presence of Lord Alistair. But still I have a promise to keep, and will not betray that even to Lord Alistair. “No my Lord, there was no such thing with the child.”

Alistair looked at Gawain as though he didn’t believe him, “Are you sure you didn’t replace anything on the child?”

Gawain knew he could not give him the amulet, but he didn’t think it would hurt to give Alistair the book he had found. In time that would prove to be one of Gawain’s biggest mistakes. “Hmm. I did replace something with the child on second thought, but it was not an amulet.”

Alistair’s eyes widened with anticipation, you could hear the excitement in his voice, “What did you replace?”

Gawain picked up the book and showed Alistair, “I found this book, Lord Alistair. It doesn’t look like much though.”

Alistair smiled, “You have a lot to learn, Gawain. Never judge by looks alone, there is always more to somethings than the eye can see.” it seemed as though Alistair was lecturing young, Gawain. But it would be the best advice anyone could have given him. “Do you mind if I take the book off your hands? I could demand you give it to me, but it is not mine to take.”

Gawain thought about it for a minute or so, “I have no use for this dusty old book, by all means you can have it, Lord Alistair.” he held the book out for him to take. Alistair slowly reached out to take the object, once the ancient book was in Alistair’s hands is when images flooded his mind. Images of great battles, and weapons of great destructive power was what he had seen, but that wasn’t all. For he also seen images of the Dark Knights, and monsters far worse than you could ever imagine. However, there was one image that he witnessed that changed Alistair forever. It was of a man that gained the

power to control it all, the power to make all of his dreams come true. “Are you alright, Lord Alistair?” Gawain asked.

Alistair cracked a faint smile, “I’m fine, Gawain. Do not ask questions that does not concern you.” he turned his back on Gawain and walked out of the room. That is the moment that everything would change in the world of Todrain.