Legacy of Merlin Daughter of Light

8/11/2019 Legacy of Merlin Daughter of Light

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ok 3 - DAUGHTER OF LIGHT

opsis

e borders of Avalon, a prophetess travels between present and past,

ween light and darkness, between the mortal world and the magic between

ger of treacherous battles and glory of an indescribable passion!

gland, 1067

ssandra Tregaron inherited from her father, the wizard Merlin, the gift of

nsport themselves freely through time and space. Stephen de Valois,

of William the Conqueror, is a fearless warrior, determined to

eat the evil Malagraine combatant. United in a mission that

ds to the ruins of an enchanted kingdom shattered, Stephen and Cassandra be

fronted with the powerful dark forces that threaten the world

rtal, and the challenge of a love that transcends infinity ...

inn Taylor


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pter I

ndon, 1067

l me, daughter. The thought came to Vivian, as easily as if the parent

s at his side, in the great hall of the Tower of London, and talked

h her. Tell me what they are talking about.

ere was a strange urgency in his voice, as if the thoughts

nnect to Vivian, as if he sensed something else, not to say.

hough he could read her thoughts that special way that

e, the father closed his for her.

ian stood in the shadows of the great hall of the newly built tower

ndon, the fortress where William of Normandy, now king of England,

ablished the court. Looked for her husband.

ian was now a counselor of the king, like his father, Merlin, had once

visor of another king. However, the baby who had just given birth

e required his attention even King William. Tonight, however, she turns attracted

he court for reasons not understood, but felt, throughout their

ve endings, as a premonition to hover in the presence

vy in the air and appearing in disturbing visions in a tapestry fabric.

ot has changed, Dad, since the year in which William took the throne

glish - Vivian murmured, knowing that his thoughts would bind to

m, even though his father was not there to hear it. - At the same time,

e has changed. Saxon barons are concealed and barely worth

fidence. There are constant rumors of plots against the king. The barons and

ights Guilherme show restless and want to return to Normandy.


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rke would like us to leave this place, but I can not. am

ded here. Feel it.

eed, much had changed. The coats of arms and emblems of the Saxon nobility

t once adorned the walls had been replaced by hangings

elaborate plot and banners of bright colors of the House of Normandy

ou, Pontiers, and half a dozen other European noble families,

ose riders were now owners of land in England, as

yment for services rendered to William.

at news?, The father asked, anxious, and Vivian knew the reason for the

stion because it also turns on the bright skeins of silk woven in

estry.

here is no news. Men that the king sent west were

ers. Feared the worst.

heated argument had broken out among the knights of William. many

re in favor of sending more men to the western border, while a

al number were against it and openly spoke of the desire to return to

rmandy, since most had families there, which they did not see

s more than two years. It was dangerous to talk with the Saxon barons

en carefully and set up their own schemes, where William

ve England.

rning torches attached to the walls, the acrid smell of animal fat to

rge with the pungent wood smoke, cold sweat and hot meat

ny bodies crowded the hall, stirred in discussions.

lliam the Conqueror, self-proclaimed King of England, sat at

le on the raised platform well above those discussed so


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ongly in the lounge.

was a stout man, shoulder width further highlighted by

ers of rich satin and velvet of his tunic. In his eyes gleamed a

bition that earned him the English throne. Beside her, the Queen Mathilde,

overed now after the birth of her third child, sat in

ughtful silence.

ross the king was his friend and loyal knight Rorke Fitzwarren. To

the strong and handsome profile of the husband, Vivian felt a surge of pride and

ire. There were moments of intimacy since the birth of the child. E

l had problems so hard in the lands of the West.

long hours, every night, he was with William the issueste. There were rumors that if William resolved to resume

rmandy, appoint Rorke Chancellor FitzWar-ren in its absence with absolute authority.

ian never intervened with his powers, in regard to the position

lliam Rorke before, but not let it be drawn into the intrigues

icies. Watching him, she realized he looked peaceful, sitting to the right of lliam, his fingers loosely holding a mug of drink. however

that her husband was aware and alert to every thing

s told, every change of expression and movement between those who

t in court.

e also raised the danger that was suddenly very close. Vivian,n approached silently until post behind the chair

rke. She laid her hand on his shoulder, while a gesture of

rning and instinct to protect him, just moments before the

ors of the great hall was opened violently.

rke immediately jumped from his chair, pushing back as Vivian


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put his hand to the sword. The hall, other weapons were drawn, while

eral warriors entered without waiting to be announced.

eir armor battles were covered in mud. They were a group

n, battered and bloodied, faces smeared with dirt.

ked on the steps of the dais of the king.

e of the warriors stepped forward. The others moved away to let him pass.

mail was pushed back shoulders. There were links

n metal twisted and broken, and several bloodstained and where he smashed out

unded. His black hair was emplas or loss on the head, his features barely

cernible beneath the mask of sweat, dirt and blood. Only his eyes

re recognizable, eye candy, once full of kindness and friendship,en Vivian needed a friend, but now showed

k due to the tragic loss of a much loved brother.

vin Mars stood in silence in front of his king and his men

rounded. Had ridden for days and under the most appalling conditions

get to London. The bloodstains and the state of the armatureke for itself the horrible conflict in Western lands.

ross the room, Vivian saw the cascade of golden hair of her sister,

a radiant beacon. But even if he had not seen his

ughts would have connected that old way that both

red with his father.

mething awful happened, thoughts Brianna murmured, filled

distress. As you saw in the tapestry.

, Vivian answered mentally. I also felt. - All your attention

centrated in Gavin Mars, who stepped forward and

roached the king.

ought a gift of the lands of the West, my lord - he said, his voice tight with

akness and pain for many injuries, but it could not disguise the


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ian felt that subliminal anger inside him, like a drawn bow in

aking point. - Posted by Welsh rebels.

m inside his cloak, took a basket. Holding it in front of him, stepped forward.

elt and presented it to the king.

re than danger, Vivian felt an indescribable horror at the sight that

aded with such clarity as if the lid of the basket had been taken

the content revealed.

orke ... - she whispered, her voice cautious in part, in afflicted part, the

k stuck to the basket.

turned, and his eyes narrowed.

What is it? Any danger to the king?

ian's fingers closed firmly on her husband's arm, as

eeking forces.

is dangerous for us all. - His bright blue eyes met

als. And at that moment, before the lid of the basket and were drawn

ntent revealed to all, she murmured, believes: - Do not need your

ord, my husband.

rke then turned and looked at the basket. William rose and fell

steps of the dais to the floor of the hall. Stared firmly his

ght and then reached out and took the lid off the basket. took the

sent to her.

was round and was wrapped in a dirty and stained tissue. had the

e of a bee hive. By unrolling the wrapping content

and rolled on the floor.

ound the room, Saxons and Normans gasped with horror and revulsion at the

re at the severed head of John Curthose, rider confidence and outfall

lliam, sent to negotiate peace with Prince John

dies present cried out in terror. Poladouras, the monk who created

ian since baby, muttered a hurried prayer, while all the


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und reacted in shock, disgust and outrage taken.

e Queen let out a strangled moan, muffled by the revolt

aged Stephen de Valois, the bastard son of William.

n Stephen Curthose created almost old enough to reach this

mount a horse and ride alongside his father.

rke Fitzwarren taught him everything he knew about the cavalry. John will

ght about the world beyond the battlefield. A world of culture

ch older than her; language, history and philosophy.

rke become the young warrior. John had molded the mind of the young

rrior and filled knowledge. Now, dear friend and mentor

been brutally murdered.

y God! - Stephen exploded, the shock to turn into suffering,

n anger, as advancing through the other riders

ilherme. - These rebels will pay for what they did!

vin turned to Mars.

ow many men were lost?

en of my own - Gavin replied, looking for Stephen King.

ll men of Sir John are dead. Were hung in

e for carrion birds to devour their bones. This - Pointed

this horrendous sent to the king - was delivered

our camp in the morning where we found massacred.phen was the same height as the parent, but with that agility animal of

uth in each muscle. The eyes were the same color of amber, the

r of a more vibrant brown than William. there were very

re than simple traits from parent to child, the same strong chin and

ointed arch eyebrows. But the similarity ended there. The mouth was

utiful and sensual as the mother, the creature whose only sin was to be the plebs


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not owning land or securities as a dowry. Although William loved her with

sion of his fifteen years had been forbidden to marry her by his own father,

bert of Normandy, which also made him a bastard, but that the

ointed his legitimate heir.

ian knew that William saw it as he had been in

phen. Father and son were bound by the circumstances of birth.

phen was the eldest and beloved as any of the other children of

ilherme. More than any of them, Stephen de Valois was the son of

sion and desire, in whom the king saw the pain of the past and envisioned the

pe for the future.

his can not stand! - Stephen shouted, expressing what each

ight and Warrior in the hall thought. - You must send an army

he lands of the West.

We will discuss the matter at another time.

nother time? - Stephen replied, shocked. - In another hour, the next

ds will roll may be within these very walls. Youd to act now.

o not deal with that right now! - William retorted in a tone of

wer voice. It was an unmistakable warning against the folly of his son

peak so openly in the presence of the whole court, which included the barons

xon, who wanted nothing more than to see William expelled fromgland once and for all. It would not matter if the Welsh rebels

west were the cause.

phen, however, would not suppress. For months there had been rumors

blems in the border region of England, a distance not so


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mote. The lands of the West were only a few days' trip

ndon.

st the king sent John Curthose, and then Gavin Mars. And there had

carnage. Proof that his father needed most? The frustration and

phen rage impelled to speak so maybe less conservative than

uld. Frustration that he alone among the knights of the father, was

sistently underestimated in matters of military strategy, although

won his spurs Knight five years earlier, with much

unger than any of the other knights of William, including

rke Fitzwarren. Anger that every word, every gesture, every decision

s taken was a reminder of his spurious birth. It wassidered as worthy as the other knights and nobles to the king

sted his kingdom. And that anger made him precipitate.

demand that you send me to the lands of the West! - Stephen told

ng, head up, eyes narrowed, his father a silent challenge. their

s were clenched

d, hard muscle each of anger, as if ready for a fight.

ou made me commander of his army. It is my duty to protect the king

avenge the death of its rider.

is my commander under my authority - William replied by

ween the teeth, so that only the son heard. - Not able to

mand anything. And would do better to remember that what we have is due to my

erosity. - Said it hoping to discourage such Stephen

cipitation, but the phrase has caused the opposite effect.

What I Own - Stephen stated loud and clear for all to hear

mine by right of blood spilled in countless fields

tle, fighting beside him, my lord. Not least the blood other

o serve, but with which you now sit on the throne of

gland.


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y, undulating around your body es-I lead. The cloak seemed almost

phanous, shining a light hidden, and shining stones on the ground,

ich dragged at the feet of the young.

e hood had slipped for the shoulders, revealing the black hair

dnight, running down the back in waves, fine features under the skin

ivory satin and the most extraordinary eyes that Stephen had ever seen.

re the color of violet, like rare gems. And frightened.

Who are you? - He asked. - What are you doing here?

et go of me! - She murmured, distraught, trying to free himself. - Please! -

aded. - Need to drop me!

ddenly, a brilliant flash lit the gloomy corridor, as if theches were blown walls. The light intensity appeared

nfully penetrate the brain Knight and burn her eyes.

en expanded, surrounding the young.

phen tried to pull her back away from that circle of light, certain

would be burned by flaming heat. Instead, if it was felt

hed forward, pushed towards the light.

ere was nothing to hold, unless the delicate wrist in his hand

closed. Then, the light encircled both. Trembled and throbbed as if

ame brighter and hotter. Burned her skin and seemed

ot air from the lungs.

en that still clung to the young Stephen could no longer see her.

der bright light, it was just a golden silhouette. Then the

ht seemed to implode, swallowing itself.

phen felt he was falling, appearing to have been hit by a punch that

ew to the ground. But the floor was gone. Have been counted him

eased by some type of opening and urged by a light passage

nding.


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lowed tumbling, the churn, slipping and sliding through

ortex of images and sounds. everything came

him an immense speed, a blur of vivid color and intense

sations. Myriad sounds resounded as if millions of voices shout

he same time.

was as if he were a piece of wood caught in a current

werful, being sucked into a chaos of light, unable to free himself, unable

top what was happening, clinging to that delicate little hand

a lifeline.

en, the same sudden way we started, the vortex of light, color and

nd disappeared. Stephen was thrown on a hard surface and

gh, sharp edges of the stones cut her hands and her

atching his face.

urt to breathe, and he felt cold. His muscles seemed torn. had the

ling of having broken bones, as if he had been brutally beaten.

ard death described by knights and warriors who find us

tlefields. If not for the intense throbbing pain in your body

ry heart beat, judge dead.

ere were you? The fortress of the king was attacked?

e chaotic images gradually ceased to spiral around. Finally,

phen could pull air into the lungs. He tried to move his arms ands, and repented immediately, as the pain throbbed in each

scle and joint. Was as weak as a newborn.

en the world seemed to settle once again flexed Stephen

gers and found that no more holding the girl by the wrist. then

wly managed to open his eyes.


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was painstaking focus the view and sharpen the ears. Again felt the stones

d in the body, no longer hard and rough, but soft and polished.the salon in London? Seemed extremely changed. no

ch burned walls. I did not hear the noise of the horsemen and

rriors of the court of William. Everything was dark and quiet.

she turned slowly, felt something light as a feather brushing her cheek. E

n after, felt new. He looked up and saw snowflakes falling

ough a hole in the ceiling. White and silent, snow penetrated by that

ning and covered the walls collapsed as a shining robe,

ing the ruin and decay. That was not the tower of the king in

ndon.

at had happened? Where were you? What place was that?

adually, the strength returned to his body, enough so that he could

slow steps, Stephen toured the ruins. It was an old place, cold and

nt and shadows extending beyond the pale beam that

ped through the ceiling burst. However, even under that parka

ht, he could discern that place out once a

ge and imposing castle.

e stones were all clear, smooth and polished color under the moss and gravel

t had accumulated over the centuries. The panels of the window openings

ned onto a large courtyard surrounded by buildings and longer

ualties. And all around, there was a stone towers connected to the wall,

lt that same pale stone.


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e towers gleamed in the silent snow, like ghostly sentinels

o beware that old place. Stephen, however, felt far more

w something lurked hidden under the cloak of snow and debris.

th the instinct of every warrior who had stepped on a battlefield and

elled of death, knew that a fierce fight had taken place in

metime within those walls.

lying against spotted the signs: the blackened eaves of clear stones,

ere the fire had swept the castle; jars and metal scattered of pieces

ken pottery; and in the large main room, the tattered remains

me lost banners and disintegrated skeletons of past

enders who had bravely made a last-ditch effort to winimpossible fight.

cient armor battle lay fallen around the decaying ruins

at looked like a huge round table. Twelve chest harnesses

twelve swords were stones on the ground, as if the warriors

hout forces had simply lain down to rest for somee, before resuming the battle.

wly he approached the table. The surface showed very

maged and tarnished by the action of the elements that had taken possession of the

tle in the centuries after the final battle. Old inscriptions in

face of the rock was still visible.phen ran his fingers lightly down the tabletop. There figures

rriors carved panels which circumvented the edge. Inside the ring of panels, another ring lettersming words written in Latin, however indecipherable.

ay the debris from the side, but in the dim light, I could not read them

arly. Then, suddenly, he pulled his hand back, a brusque gesture.


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hough it was unbearably cold inside the ruined castle, his fingers

gled as if he had touched something hot and alive.

e snow had become a cold rain. The wind rose, and Stephen heard

tant rumble of thunder. At the top, the opening in the ceiling, the spokes

rkled. The glow brightened the walls blackened with soot.

wever, inside the fortress, there was a strange silence of expectation,

hose often experienced moments right before a battle,

en it seemed that the heart of every warrior ceased his frantic beat.

turned and saw a young man found in the hallway outside the

ilherme cut.

der the sudden coruscate of lightning cracked through the roof, your skin

s pale as ivory fine, as if he had stepped out of one of those stones

. His eyes were an extraordinary shade of violet, to illuminate the

h cheekbones; and the hair, the color of the night sky. Around

k she wore a necklace with stones that had been carved

usual recordings. There seemed a creature of this world. But when

phen reached out and touched her, the slender arm was flesh and blood,

and very real.

eed to leave this place now - the girl murmured, distressed. - It is dangerous

u're here.

other hand closed over his, and again Stephen felt that

gling unusual heat. When contact was taken again by the same

den sense of alienation and confusion, as if the hand of

the court of William, just before the world explode your opinion

nd. And again surprised by the strength that he perceived that pulse

icate, as if she could get rid of with a slight gesture. But he did not.

ease - the girl begged again. - Should not be here.

ut I am. Who are you? - He asked. - What is this place?

ust a dream - she snapped. - There is. Stephen's fingers are


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sed around the wrist of the young.

here is. Tell me! - He pulled her against him. It was not a dream. was

ually hot, flesh and bone.

e cloak seemed radiate on the delicate shoulders and rustling around

nder body. Under the pale, shimmering fabric, full breasts

y were compressed against him, and delicate shaped hips to the forms of

phen.

ed with a contact so intimate, she lifted her head, eyes violet

ken until it seemed as dark and unfathomable as the night;

ped the sweet breath to exhale the parted lips. And that sound

mbling, he felt a sudden and powerful passion.

well beyond the walls in ruins and towers with tassel

me king had long disappeared, Stephen heard a noise

tinguished, as familiar to him as breathing. Sounds of battle. drew

ung with you to the opening of the large room window.

ove the Storm, heard the clank of steel, the clatter of horses, the cries

ng, amid the growing storm. The sickening stench of death

ended the valley, beyond the castle walls, carried away by raging wind.

r.

e young man closed his hand again on his arm, and Stephen turned.en if it was a dream, I knew that place was.

melot, the legendary kingdom of the ruler who once had ruled all of Britain.

e storm broke, and lightning exploded near the window. Instead of trying

rid, Stephen felt that the young man's hand closed over hers. she

led toward the light.

ain, experienced the intense flare and chaos of visions


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d noises to erupt around. And then realized that was falling, and that the hand

girl escaped from his ...

phen felt the hard, cold stone that scratched her hands and face.

rose slowly from the ground. The torches of the corridor and steam

kered and then burned harder.

her senses focused, he heard familiar voices to discuss in the hall nearby. The guardsnowledged that the post

ry court. Everything was familiar to him, just like when the left

l. But this time, the girl was nowhere to be found.

at was real? Or had he just imagined?

e opened her fingers slowly. Closed in your hand so tight that left a

print in the palm, was one of the shining stones necklace she wore.

en had held at that old place, the necklace was broken. The stone

in his hand was proof that Stephen not imagined! But, if not

imagination, then what happened?

looked at the clear and polished stone. The image was carved on the surface of the

ure of a man wielding a gun. For those who believed

ancient runes and destiny predicted, was the symbol of the warrior.gs of mist, like gray veils of the wrapped trees

est on the outskirts of London, the overcast dawn. There was a chill

he air that heralded the fall and then the winter in their heels. the

ves of vegetation greenness had lost, dyed in yellow

es, swooning in shades of gold and orange, still attached to twigs, in

h, as small golden banners.

e horses whinnied in the stables, impatient, the vapor of the breath

dense in the cold air. Felt the next day and were restless

escape the confines of your boxes.

e swords of battle had a dull glow in the early morning

y. Had rolled mattresses, attached to the saddles. two wagons

rying provisions. When ran out, would live than they could


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earth.

ou're going against the orders of the king - Stephen Rorke Fitzwarren advised,

e to face meeting between the Warriors to continue their journey, anxiety

ting the blood to them.

companied his young friend from the fortress of the Tower of London. one by

night away, knights and other warriors had also left the

titude, regroup to sleep in the forest. The food and wagons

come to the city because there was always some greedy merchant

ling to earn gold coins, no matter the hour.

phen does not pick up gals back and tunic with the emblem of Valois,

ose domain title and William had given him a year before, on merit. wore,

tead, a tunic and black tights. His shield format

e, which hung from the saddle, was also black, with a unique brand of color

od drawn on the diagonal and below the Latin word Desdicado. a

rd - unfortunate - who proudly proclaimed his birth

tard.

m not contradicting any order - Stephen retorted to close

t sheath his sword with hard, furious gestures. Then launched a

k at Rorke and slowly, a smile appeared on her face. a smile

ning and ferocious, very similar to the father when William was faced

ustainable chances on a battlefield. - The king said only

ould require nothing.

ay, I do not demand anything. - Rank of the last tie belt

s holding the weapons at hand, in the saddle. - As commander of the

king's army, sworn to protect him against any threat or danger. I feel that

re is a threat to the kingdom. Therefore it is my duty to pursue and destroy this

eat.

is own interpretation of the words of the king - Rorke muttered, knowing full well

t such an attitude would not do any good if Stephen William preferred to


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erpret otherwise.

he exact words of the king on the day they honored me with the post.

nd if, as chancellor of the king, I forbid to go to the West Country? -

rke asked, prepared to do so if he could prevent a confrontation

gerous between father and son, though he already knew the answer.

phen's smile disappeared, replaced by another expression that

rke knew the father; relentless and resolute expression when a

ision had been made and could not be changed.

o not ban - Stephen warned. - I do not like to lose a father and my

t friend on the same day. But it should be, that is. - Without leaving

tainly, repeated: - I go to the West Country. Do not try to stop me. - Hisongly abated. - You, of course, of all people, understands why

at.

eally understand. All I ask is that you wait a while.

or what? To my father find dozens of reasons and keep me in London, while the other

ds his knights to far ensure the kingdom? What about John Curthose? Was an honorable man.

did not deserve to die like he died. - Stephen shook his head, his mouth

gid tight line. He held the mattress behind the saddle. - Guilherme

ill not declare your child or allow me to seek my own

get. - He pulled the straps with fury. - I did everything he asked me. nothing

ked in return, except a chance to prove myself a knight of value,

he denies me the opportunity when it arises. As negative my

stence.

ished tying his cot rolling. Looked at his friend and mentor.

need to do this - said, his voice suddenly strained to recall the

eting the night before. It was a meeting that did not understand, but

t, somehow, I felt that was part of his journey.

e polished stone engraved with the figure of the warrior was tied in

m the saddle, an amulet that meeting. He held it between his thumb and


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efinger, feeling its warmth, as if he still retained the warmth of

ung. Then his expression closed, to conceal his thoughts.

need to do this - Stephen repeated. - And I know that my father would try to stop

e knew.

ome might call his actions of betrayal - Rorke pondered. - No

nimum, is nonsense. You can take only a few men.

lmost the same number that you took when ventured to the North Country - Stephen replied,mouth curving into a

le. So, it was very serious. - Men who ride with me are the

t warriors. You helped train them. We travel with lightweight and

ckly, as the rebels seek.

rke knew that boy like yourself. Also knew the demons

use against which he struggled, as if confronted with the same battle

to equal birth bastard. His father, however, was not a king,

o could not make choices with the heart; his father had no heart.

ere was nothing he could say to convince Rorke Stephen, and both

w it.

ssed the knight in arms, willing to follow him, to protect him,

he young had protected against many enemy sometimes.

o with God, my friend, and care. I will protect him here in London,

ch as possible.

phen Rorke's arms tightened with strong hands. In his speech,

d a profound gratitude.

hank you.

ce Rorke walked away to talk to other riders, a figure

eared a delicate swirl of mist. Then, as if the mist

lected in the opposite direction, carried by some invisible current of air,

phen saw Brianna lady, the wife of his friend Tarek al Sharif.


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r hair was like the sunshine through the haze, and eyes the color

arings of forests. The gray dawn seemed to wrap it as

was part of the mist, not a creature of this earth. His steps were hesitant; look,

tious.

said nothing at first, but slowly approached the horse. The animal,

vous, could easily hurt her with a single step. but Brianna

seem to notice or worry. He reached out and laid it in

scular horse's neck. Almost immediately, the animal calmed down, and

rted contentedly in a puff of steam.

phen never failed to intrigue the effect that all women that

mily caused in animals. As if they were kindred spirits, the animals

med to sense that they had nothing to fear from those ladies.

anna stroked his velvety muzzle, horse whispering words

t, unintelligible. The stallion lowered his head and seemed to hear. it then

iled and looked up at Stephen.

is a gift to all of my blood. We have a oneness with the

ure and everything that is part of it. - He turned the stallion, even post

ide Stephen. But continued to stroke the animal's neck. - Rorke

ed to dissuade him from leaving - she murmured, not as a question,

as a statement, as if he had heard the whole conversation. - I know

u should go. I saw the skeins woven tapestry. - His voice was sad.

ou're part of it now, as she, the youngest of violet eyes.

phen had not told anyone of their encounter in the hallway, woman

usual hair color with midnight eyes and a violet

raordinary, wrapped in a veil gleaming; or her experience when touched, as if

pped into another world.

he resemblance is strong in my family - Brianna murmured, with a subtle smile, to know hisughts. - Her name is Cassandra -

tinued, the smile replaced with a sad expression. - She is my sister.

phen's eyes narrowed. If the girl was Brianna's sister, so it was


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o daughter of Merlin. He knew the legend, as most of the world, the

at and wise counselor of the English monarch, who was allegedly

prisoned and later died, after the death of King Arthur. some

rlin said it was simply a very learned man, but others

d that it was much more than that. A man of talents and powers

usual, extracted from the forces of nature.

phen had seen such powers with his own eyes. Vivian Amesbury had

ling abilities; could mend torn flesh and broken bones.

d the ability to see events before succeeding, and

wer of fire as a vital force that lived within him.

anna just recently discovered the full extent of own

wers. The power to know the thoughts of others without need for

rds, and, most extraordinary of all, the gift of transformation. to

ract the powers of Light that flowed in his blood, as in her sister, she

ld take many different forms.

e mother was Ninian, The Lady of the Lake. It was she who had carried the sword

calibur for the world between worlds and had given Merlin, after Arthur's death. Ninian hadned Merlin

t world because he could not live in her.

ere, on that magical prison, Merlin off father of three daughters, who had been

t away in order to live in anonymity, in the mortal world,

y could be safe from the powers of Darkness.

anna captured the thoughts of Stephen. Her eyes followed him and

n widened to see tied rune on the shoulder of the saddle.

Where did you get that stone? - Before Stephen answered, Brianna

the answer. - Cassandra - murmured to take the rune between

gers. - We have not heard from her for many years. - Before the surprise of


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phen, she explained: - Cassandra thought that our parents had

ndoned. When Merlin refused to allow her to return, was

t and angry. Then he refused to accept his inheritance. Never returned to

rld of mist.

ran his finger down the polished surface of the stone, as if he saw more than

age recorded there.

We do not know what powers it has.

saw her. She's here - Stephen revealed, without seeing any reason for not

it to Brianna. She believed in what others would not believe.

he rune is hers.

anna shook her head, still holding the stone between his fingers.

felt the presence of Cassandra soon as I saw the stone.

Maybe now she decides to return.

en prying eyes, Brianna had a distant expression, as if unveiled something that others could.

Whatever the reason that brought her, she was, and without a word, nor

n our mother.

Where to? Brianna stared.e returned to the West Country.

ow is it possible? I saw two nights ago, outside of the royal court, and

many days of travel in difficult terrain and dangerous regions to the land

sterners. If ... what I saw was real.

phen learned in previous encounters with the powers of Light and

rkness, it was nothing it seemed. Could not be trusted in everything

ans, as the forces assumed many forms and used disguises. scars

st he carried were proof of the power of those forces.

anna felt the frustration and confusion of Stephen to capture her

ughts: the encounter with Cassandra, the incredible journey that made the

ages of the ruined castle fortress.


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was very real. Feel the lifeblood of my sister in stone. If your

eting was just an illusion, I would not be captured her presence.

anna got to wonder what Cassandra brought to London after

those years. So close to the family, had refused any contact.

e thing he knew for sure: the encounter with Cassandra Stephen was

t of what was woven into the tapestry.

our journey has begun - mumbled. He shuddered as he felt something

ould not see, perceive only. A disturbance in the forces of Light

ned their world and protected the deadly danger of.

rkness grew as her sister Vivian turns on the tapestry. but one

anna thing not yet felt: that Cassandra had immortal powers.

d her sister away the powers of Light and Darkness facing?

to concentrate on the essence that will endure in stone, as a

mnant of the heat that was part of the presence of Cassandra, Brianna not

naged to capture anything about the powers of the sister. And realized that this was

t of the journey that he hoped Stephen de Valois.

here will be an immense danger - Brianna told him, unable to feel

ctly where would the danger. Expected at least give you a warning

help him protect himself.

do not know who you can trust. But the mission is far more

avenge the death of their comrades and secure the throne of William

inst the rebel attack.

m the folds of the robe, pulled out a small roll of cloth. Was thin,

more than a ribbon, and color of gray haze. He held the handle

phen and tied the ribbon around.

is an amulet - explained. - The wires are the same as those in tissues

estry. But, if it is placed on the wrist of Cassandra, she will be without

wers, like any mortal.

iven the dubious expression of Stephen, Brianna warned:


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o not doubt me, warrior. For I speak the truth.

s will protect you. It may well be the only protection because, for what will come, your

ord of no avail.

phen looked at the narrow ribbon. Seemed delicate and fragile, such as a

sman given to a young rider before a tournament. however

s strong as the best steel sword found in the empires of the East

t. The color changed. There was more gray on one side and blue on the other, but if

nged constantly, to shine in intermediate nuances.

ou know what danger can protect myself? - Stephen asked.

e sad eyes, saw the answer: Cassandra, the own sister Brianna.

ou need to find the old Oracle. It was stolen by the powers of

rk, five hundred years ago, when Merlin was banished from the kingdom. Cassandra

he only one who can find him. Only she can use her power.

hesitated for a moment.

here's more. Not even Merlin can feel the true heart

ssandra. It is possible that she turned to the powers of Darkness. Thee amulet will give you strength for what needs to be done as it has the

rlin's power combined with my sister and my.

e did not need to explain what should be done.

What is Oracle? How will I know? Brianna smiled.

ou'll know when you see it, and if you're lucky enough strength to triumph. It is the

tique crystal that contains the knowledge do Universe.

oever possesses the oracle will have access to this knowledge and

wer to change the future of humanity. Once the crystal belonged to

rlin. But it was stolen and hidden during the great cataclysm, when

hur, the former king, was betrayed and killed.


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What can you tell me about the threat in Western lands?

s real. The Welsh prince joined the rebels, along with the Saxons

o fled after the death of King Harold at Hastings field. he did not

stern intends to return to his father land.

an there be peace?

do not know. The powers of darkness are strengthened in the lands of the West, because it was

ere it all began, long ago. The future is in gestation, nor

n Merlin can see the result.

What about John Tregaron? - Stephen asked, for it was on the border

lands of their riders Tregaron friends had been attacked and

d.

ambitious. Search only protect the fortune. Will do whatever it

essary to protect what is yours. - Brian on the felt, however, that

garon was not the biggest threat. - If it is strong and cunning, you can deal

h him.

phen noticed the hesitation in his voice and asked:

o you feel anything else? She agreed.

omething I can not clearly discern. But there is another threat,

ch more dangerous: the danger of Darkness.

t Tregaron, but someone close to him. More than that you can not

, since it was revealed to me. - After a moment's hesitation,

anna continued: - You will need someone to guide you through the lands of the West.

an take you there, because I can see what you can not see. He shook his

d, and the answer came firmly:

can not afford. And even if I could, I would never leave her husband.

ll I have enough enemies in the lands of the West, do not need another

at is one of my closest friends.

ut you have only the guidelines of Sir Gavin and men

urned to him. Can not remember everything correctly. is it dangerous


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e travel guide in unknown lands ...

ntly, but firmly, Stephen refused.

o, Lady Brianna, I forbid you. If the danger is as I said, do not put

o at risk. Also - added - his image was not

ven in tapestry panel.

e could not deny the truth of the statement. That was the fate of

phen and Cassandra. The magical images, not clearly

ined, could only be discovered by Stephen de Valois and her sister.

kay - agreed reluctantly.

e clearing, the call came for all mount their horses. day

n born and mist was rising slowly from the forest. needed from

ile it was time before being seen by the guards of the king, the

ls of the fortress. Stephen jumped into the saddle.

ound your wrist, again the amulet glowed a shade of violet

p. It was warm to the touch, as if alive. Your thoughtful look

anna found.

What will happen to this fortress and everyone in here if I fail?

thout being needs to be said, she knew the thoughts of Stephen

re the father, whom he loved, even daring. could show

er and resentment, even disobedience to the world, but in his

art had a deep love for the man who fathered.

anna shook her head and said in a solemn tone:

ou can not fail.

th the battle armor and weapons concealed, using only pants and

ple robes and carrying hunting gear for swimming the

ntified as Army soldiers and knights of King Stephen and his

n emerged from the forest once the fog lifted. headed for

ndon.


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wenty strong men riding together, or simply dresses

ull armor, draw attention. And the guard patrolling Guilherme

ular routes of arrival. Thus, in small groups followed

more than two or three, with the hoods pulled over the faces.

Kay, newly arrived from Normandy, was a young knight who

phen trained. It was the last of the group, with face stained with dirt

hide his features, and grimy clothes that reeked of a smell

rible. Could pass thief was not his noble birth. Drove the wagon

visions, with his horse following behind.

ook almost two hours for everyone to cross the city. Join in a small grove just outside

old Roman road linking London to cities and towns to the west.

Kay was the last to arrive.

l had several hours and had to put distance between the group and

s much as possible before it was the absence of all

covery. As a further precaution to avoid being followed, the group

ded inland through the forest instead of using the old Roman road.

ntinued to travel well after nightfall, the track of the road guilos

distance, in the light of the crescent moon, who played at hide among

clouds. Not lit bonfires, and ate bread, cheese and strips

ae-dry each carrying a saddle, the saddle. The next morning,

ore the fog lifted and the sky would clear, moved on.

oided towns, villages and farms, so no one knew who had

sed that way. As the first night, after dark, not

ned fire.

the third day of travel, Stephen forced riders and mounts to

austion before stopping beside a small creek at the edge of

ods, just before sundown sun. That night, they lit bonfires,

ile several men penetrated the forest to hunt. Sir Kay was

visions taking the cart. Nobody complained, but the promise of meat


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it was tempting for everyone.

en a shriek cut the camp. Weapons were wielded.

veral of the men of Stephen, who went into the woods to hunt

urned, but equal numbers fell, hiding in the forest, eyes

ch in camp.

ake your hands off the girl, your dirty monster! - A voice bellowed. - Or I will

the guts out like a codfish!

around the camp, the men of Stephen converged to

wagon provision and Sir Kay. Was not his voice they heard.

Kay was in the back of the wagon, between the crates of chickens

ttered on the floor, bags of grain, frizzy breads, dried fruits

cheeses. As the torches illuminated the clearing, all encountered

h an unusual scene.

old witch faced. Had half its height and it was dry as

eed. The long white hair framed her face like a

ver cloud. A bony hand full of protruding veins, clung to a

ff on which it rested. The shoulders were curved and fragile in costumes

n. On the other hand he held a long, thin knife with the tip

geted with deadly precision in the vulnerable area just below the belt sir

y, as if he had every intention to meet the threat.

Kay was planted in place as if it had taken root, and dared not

n breathing. But holding the arm of a slender young woman.

as a kid and also dressed with simplicity as the old witch, but the resemblance ended there.haps he had no more than

rteen or fifteen, the oval face to take the carved angles that

become a beauty. The skin was pale and luminous, almost translucent

e a pearl, the torchlight. His eyes, wide and full of

ght, drew attention because they were the color of aquamarines or blue

green, but in an unusual hue between the two.


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rdlessly, she struggled to free herself from the clutches of Sir Kay and.

she struggled, the hood of the mantle fell on his shoulders. her hair

sened and glittered in the torchlight. They were a deep, rare color,

honey with gold accents.

phen ordered his men to recede weapons.

re my guts that the witch wants to boot - Sir Kay complained, for

ween clenched teeth.

should help her - Stephen replied. - Loosen the girl.

hey were hidden in the wagon. And the old woman threatened me with a knife. god

ows what he is capable.

Much more than you can imagine or would like to try -

phen said. And he repeated: - Loosen the girl.

erly confused, Sir Kay obeyed. The youth fled back of the wagon, and

old lady finally dropped the knife. His expression sobered,

tened by a slight smile. He turned to Stephen and the torchlight,

n saw that his eyes were milky, bluish color full

tructed by blindness.

suppose it's not necessary to ask how you got the wagon -

rmured Stephen.

e old woman laughed.

nly if you were a fool, Stephen de Valois, and that you are not. maybe hardheaded

d impetuous, but not a fool.

Kay looked from one to another in disbelief. The other men began to

k to camp.

ou know this old?

es - agreed Stephen, torn between anger and frustration. - I

ow. Called Meg

Meg? The guardian of Lady Vivian?

Went to guardian it once! - Meg exclaimed proudly, as he turned


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voice as though he had sight. - Now that Vivian met its

tination, I am no longer needed.

is not necessary here - Stephen said. - Will return to London.

h, warrior ... - She sighed. - Do not do that since it would require sending an

men with me, and cannot; will need all the lands

West. Also need someone to guide you there.

Kay snorted and laughed.

ou, old witch? A guide? Blind?

g turned and met with remarkable accuracy, vulnerable flesh with

of the knife, as if it were not blind, but see as well as he.

was born in the West Country. I know every valley, river stone. And I do not need

se eyes to see what I need.

phen pulled away gently.

o need to ask who sent it. Meg gave him a smile

nificant.

Was not target or even her sister Vivian venture by Country

st. But there was nothing in the tapestry that says an old could not

ompany him.

nd the girl? Cannot talk? - Sir Kay asked in a bolder tone

n it should.

g vacant eyes narrowed.

er name is Amber. Lost his speech for many years, since his village

mily was attacked and murdered. - So, frowned, as if

captured a thought he did not express aloud. -

ke care, warrior - she warned. - I approach without being

visioned in his cot and bury this knife between his ribs before


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u know what happened, if you touch the girl again. It is not

you.

eave her alone - Stephen added his warning to the old. - The girl

be treated as an escort campaign.

will finish unloading the wagon after - Sir Kay hastened to say,

n picked up two crates of chickens and took them to the bonfire

mp at a safe distance.

phen turned to the old Meg

will not cause problems to the girl - assured. - In the morning, you

urn to London. One of my men will escort them to the limits

y.

g shrugged.

We will run and follow them. You cannot stop. And will a man

st of which desperately need in the coming weeks.

phen knew that Meg spoke the truth. And if he tried to tie his hands

feet, she would run the same way as it was a descendant of an enchanted a mortal. Although his powers were limited, could still find

ys to elude him and his men, and he had no time for such things.

We will leave you and the girl in the next village - Stephen warned without

nt to take on the burden of following with the old and the young. - Are they safe

re. For now, they can stay on the wagon for your use. - He glanced at

ward the sky, where the clouds hid the stars. - They will be protected

weather. - Then he turned and returned to camp. Meg snorted.

will see Warrior. We'll see.


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pter II

bana was at the end of the trail, skirted by trees and surrounded by

est. He stood there so long ago that no one remembered no more

en. Above the sound of the wind in the trees, the thunderous roar of the

ounded ocean, as the waves were falling from the cliffs

, where the forest met the sea.

ey called him "angry sea," as a pot to boil and

bbling beneath the dripping rocks, covered with moss

enish, while above, perched on a high promontory,

e a toothless old hag whose bones whitened the

, were the ruins of Tintagel, an ancient fortress with origins that

t in myth.

me said that the legendary King Arthur was born there. Overlooked the sea

st, which some called the big lake, toward an island

ible only occasionally through the mist and clouds. The former

me of the island was Avalon.

e ruins of Tintagel were empty, now inhabited only by marine birds.

arded the secrets of the fortress, perched as

tinels along the top of the crumbling walls, each calling

er before diving from their perches on the shoals, between


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ks and lagoons formed by the tide, fishing for fish and crustaceans

behind with the receding waters.

piral of smoke rolled up the chimney on the roof of straw

that stood in the shadow of Tintagel. Carried a strange odor and

nging from some old stock.

was there that farmers, villagers, fishermen and woodsmen came for

ling potions and herbal teas Old to relieve any sickness or

abling injury. Others came for very different reasons.

pt silently through the forest, appearing at the door

ne or in groups of two or three, looking for help and guidance to

way, the way of the ancestors, who believed in the powers of

th, wind and sky.

eir requests were always met in one way or another. Elora did not

t anyone away. But there were some whom she refused to

eive, those who she did not trust.

ny already had seen in the forest, to rely heavily on a staff, the

lect moss and lichens, gathering a lot of dead things and

moldy cloth bag that hung from his belt knotted at her waist. But

re were others who claimed that the creature they saw was no

ne witch, but an in-ordinary young beauty who quickly disappeared when the sighted.

ide the cabin, a huge white wolf raised his head suddenly from

paws, erect ears toward the door, made of skins

imal stretched on a wooden frame.

es - said a voice coming from near the stove. - I also heard my

nd. We have a visitor. - The voice was not old nor young, but

meless voice that sighed as the sound of wind. - The girl, Lodi, the

stle Tregaron. Came to ask for more post mistress.

e white wolf rose, the thick tuft of hair on your neck bristle.

odi is harmless - the voice near the fire, someone invisible until then


35/250

ally took shape, when one who lived there came out of the shadows.

t that the boss thinks is a witch of lost gear. - Snorted the

patience. - Spells with herbal mixtures, cobwebs and land

ecrated graves. Lady Margeaux believes it is only a matter

ind the right potion to give you the power you like.

gun with healing potions to distribute among the villagers of Tregaron.

en post to relieve the black humor of Tregaron Lord John, his brother.

re recently, off to the cabin in the forest, in person, looking for

er potions that could give you the power of intuition.

ck to the cabin one afternoon not long ago, the sensitive

d Margeaux of Tregaron already inside,

ween the ceramic jugs and jars containing herbs and medicinal powders.

hough the lady he claimed innocence, she realized that some herbs

cious and few post had been stolen.

e loss not bothered, but the growing fixation on this woman

wers that thought mixtures possess.

We need to find something to send back to the girl -

d aloud, for white wolf. - Something that distracts Mrs.. of Tregaron

some time.

turned to the shelf of jars and bottles, according to a blocked form

light in the doorway. While the White Wolf took a stance

tective between the woman and input, sensory exclaimed, in a voice that

med as old as time:etween, girl! What like?

wever, with wise eyes the color of the deepest violet, she already knew

t the girl had come to ask.

di hesitantly entered the hut. His eyes lingered a moment until

ustomed to the gloom. Always surprised that this was a place

enjoyable. Not dark and damp, or smelling of rotten odors,


36/250

rible, yet warm and welcoming, penetrating aromas pass

opening of the door. But the creatures that inhabited the hut with

d always preached him a fright.

w, closing the door behind him and his eyes adjust to the dim light

ide, solid suddenly seeing the huge gerbil rat now

old to hide in the corner of the stove.

e had seen rats in the grain tank and pantries in Tregaron, but the

e that creature always amazed. Had the pointy features of

at, but was the size of a large cat. Not flee from

r, but watched from the shadows. It seemed that her eyes shone with

ray-silver color that transparent. The girl approached with

uctance.

ome on, girl. Do not be shy. - With a slight smile, the old

ended: - I will not eat it. - Saw the wary look that shadowed the

tures of the youngster. - Should not believe everything you hear. Tell me, what

t brings the forest?

My lady looking for a tonic - Lodi explained, taking a purse

folds of the robe.

d eyes sharpened. Did you know that the bag contained gold pieces,

yment for powders and potions. Gold that would be given to those who

ded after the girl was gone because of Tregaron Margeaux

s incapable of generosity and taxed farmers in Tregaron

es that took them to misery.

What kind of bracing? - Old asked to turn to the cauldron

thing and bubbling on the stove and spread lavender on the boiling broth.

What ails your mistress?

en before the girl spoke, the words captured the Old and wrinkled her

wn.

ot Disease - Lodi explained. - She wants a physical fortifying a


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ion to return it the appearance of youth.

a hesitant gesture, put the bag of coins on the table next.

What about her powers? - Old asked. - I heard that your

ployer is considered a great sorceress. What need have a

woman like me?

very day my boss looks in the mirror and sees a new line or brand.

d is very worried, especially now.

e Old frowned.

Why are you so worried now?

e girl looked around, as if the walls might have ears.

ecause she is not married. Is very excited for it. Encourages Lord John

oin his army to the other Welsh princes planning an

ack. But if King William to invade the lands of the West with all its

my, invaded England as she is determined to prepare for

ke an advantageous alliance.

deep frown creased his brow Old. That same morning, had

ery unusual sight. Cut his hand by accident, when collecting rare herbs

he forest. Bled a lot. Upon returning to the cabin, a little blood

l drip in small bowl of water when cleaning out the wound.

scarlet stain that had formed, with the by turando blood to water,

had a vision: armed warriors who did not wear badges,

embled in large warhorses and bathed in blood. but not

dicted the ambitious plans Margeaux. For the first time, its own

wers had failed him.

Where will this attack? - Old asked, curling his fingers over the

m, where the cut had healed yet.

plain Brodmir, the mouth of the valley. The directors of Lord John

it is the perfect place to corral them. Are all dead, of course,

were the first.


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th stiff lips in a row, the Old put two bags of powder on hand

girl.

ake this to your mistress - instructed.

ou will regain your youth and beauty? If not, I fear that it is

y angry.

e Old agreed.

ell your boss that must be mixed precisely; two parts of the powder

e with a piece of white powder and cooked slowly until it becomes

uid. Then needs to cool down.

Will it work? - Lodi asked with an incredulous expression.

es, it will - the Old replied with a wave of his hand. - Now go away.

w the girl turned to leave and felt also when hesitated and was going to get

bag of coins back as her mistress had instructed to do.

eave the bag and go - the Old murmured, lowering his voice to a

mbling. - It's getting dark. Will not want to be caught by night in

est, alone.

fore the warning, Lodi ran out of the hut, leaving

bag on the table. The Old stopped stirring the cauldron and turned to

k at the girl, she had left the door open in a hurry.

e huge gerbil disappeared. Instead, transformed, was the wolf

ite, who growled softly.

es, Fallon - the lady said with pained voice. The wolf looked at her with those

se eyes, silver. The Old also transformed, assuming other

ce its true form, a young and delicate woman, beauty

usual, with hair the color of the wings of a crow and violet eyes.

ou need to go - she ordered the wolf. The air shivered around

ming to contain dark secrets. - The soldiers of King William should

warned of the attack.

his thoughts, he recalled the sight of morning, the warriors


39/250

vered in blood, and he who led them with no badge on

ic or shield, only the black color and the word he used, one,

t blood poured from his shell: I deside.

phen and his men had camped within the narrow mouth of the valley.

ere was fresh water and plenty of grass for the horses. A fruitful hunting out in

est. Even so, he felt uneasy, as before a battle, with that inexplicable rush of energy that seemedburn her skin and

t prevented him to sit beside the fire with his men.

Kay and John Lacey approached.

he girl and the old are gone.

Where last seen? - Stephen asked.ust before we camp. Thought the old needed a

ment of privacy. I did not take her eyes for more than a moment.

moment is all it needs - Stephen retorted dryly,

ause during the last few days, he and Meg had signed an alliance nothing

y: Stephen would not try to send her back to England, and she did not

to turn their men into stones, which I fully believed

u might be able to do.

what direction were seen?

ear the large rocky cluster we passed. She went back

uge stone.

stone behind which you would not see - Stephen muttered to

ss the cleverness of women, blind as he was, to elude his guards.

m so sorry - said Sir Kay.

ady Vivian really likes that old. You will have much to regret

n if any harm comes to her. - He turned back to the horse. -

ck before the moon is in the midst of heaven.

l go along - John Lacey said. - The region is unknown and dangerous.


40/250

ay with others - Stephen ordered. - A is only a target less

o visible. I find the old and the girl. Do not tarry. - He led the

se out of the camp.

e moon provided little light to slowly rise from the horizon.

phen marked the way, memorizing the unusual rock formations

a peculiar curve of land under the pale moonlight. The West Country seemed

sent many peculiarities. Then advanced by a group of trees and

ed with an unusual panorama.

come accustomed to seeing huge rocks while traveling, but this was a

usual provision. The setting did pull the reins. Instead of

ed or stacked one over the other, as if some giant the played at the base of the hill, the stones were posted up,

menhirs.

ey were huge, at least the height of two men, dark and shiny

moonlight. Also great rocks were arranged as dolmens on

of several pairs of standing stones, forming a large open circle

flat terrain of the valley.

phen then saw the girl, Amber, first stop outside the

cle of stones, under one of the menhirs. Meg was within

cle, his head thrown back, arms open.

e horse refused to move. Snorted and shied when Stephen tried

ce him to go ahead. Finally, he dismounted and tied the reins of

lion on a branch. Continued on foot. When you get closer to the rocks,

rd the voice of Meg old who sang unintelligible words in a

nge cadence.

phen came over to where I was the girl, calling her softly to

frighten her. She turned. his vivid blue eyes looked clear as moon-stones, hair like gold

k in the moonlight.

mbled, for the night was cold, and neither she nor Meg wore


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ir robes. Stephen ordered Amber back and wait near the

se. Then slowly approached the circle of stones.

know it's there, warrior - Meg said softly. - Approach to

y careful or you will scare her. - He felt the unspoken question and

lained: - The magnificent creature on the other side of the stone circle.

was amazing the soft heat inside the circle, he felt upon entering, as

he wind did not get there, though there were huge gaps between the

nhirs. As Stephen approached the old, finally saw the creature of

ich she had spoken.

was a magnificent white wolf, larger than any he had ever seen. was

opposite side of the circle, within the space of blues further north menhirs.

ce Stephen stood beside old Meg to the silver gaze of the wolf

ked himself on it.

phen had seen that same look in the eyes of an animal before

ack. Did not expect was the old face with a wild animal.

e wished she had brought the sword had left the saddle, but drew his dagger

nting belt sheath. Meg reached up and grabbed his wrist with the

e and sure of who saw.

o not do any good - muttered. - The creature is protected by

ne circle and cannot be killed.

nd I'm not protected inside the circle - Stephen retorted with

casm.

o not be afraid. The creature came to warn you.e hairs prickled at the nape of Stephen, an instinctive alarm. the old

rs on his shoulder, achieved an encounter with a creature of

rk, tingled as recently healed. Each muscle was

se.

What warning?

serious danger - said Meg - The no more than two days' journey


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m here. There will be an attack. You and your men will be inferior in

mber at least ten to one, as were the knights who

me before you.

he wolf told you that?

he wolf is the messenger. Brought the message to another person.

phen's eyes narrowed.

What game is this?

ame no warrior, but deadly serious subject. You and your men are at grave risk. Many will die,ess you hear the warning and

e precautions.

recautions? Against an army ten times larger? Maybe you should

the wolf as it can be done - suggested with irony and

may.

g shrugged.

re you the warrior. It's up to you to determine. - Then a slow smile

wed her mouth. - But there is no rule that says you should

ounter this enemy in open battle.

Who sent the creature? - Stephen asked.

g smiled. In asking the question, he had accepted the message as true.

ou met the warrior, the lost kingdom. My young mistress, lady

ssandra.

Where will it happen? - Stephen wondered, but as he turned, the white wolf

ff as he disappeared into the mist that slowly rose in

und the stones, until a cloud enveloped the whole circle.

ou have been warned - Meg reminded him and called the girl, Amber, when

k and out of the ring of stones. - Do the best.

phen did not leave immediately the circle, but stood there, knowing that

usual feeling as if he had, once again, withdrawn from the world

al to another world that existed in parallel.


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fingers closed on the polished rune engraved with the symbol, he

d belt, and again felt unusual warmth that despite the air

d of the night. The same heat from inside the stone ring.

on leaving, glanced back. The dolmens on top of a soft blue,

m to sparkle with an immaterial light under the arch of the growing light. when

ked again, the moon hid. The stones seemed giants Real Estate,

nt, keepers of secrets.

ar noon, two days later, Sir Kay and De Lacey returned with

ws that the rebels had been sighted less than an hour

urney ahead. This gave them precious little time to prepare a

ense.

en with the memory of the death of Curthose, Stephen had taken seriously the

rds of the old Meg was not necessary place in the open. there was

er means to fight, he learned from his friend Tarek al Sharif, whose

ategy was to attack without warning, run away, then attack again, as did

rlike desert tribes from whom he was descended.

phen had chosen to wait. If the rebels knew of his presence, then

o came to them, will reason. For the rest of the morning, had his men

minating the deadly traps and snares which they had prepared for the

els in the forest.

pes were stretched by clearings. Flexible, stripped of all branches

ves, had the sharp edges in lethal spears, then buried by

cks and trails, waiting advancing attackers. The forest became

atal trap for the unwary. So Stephen handed spears and

itions indicated to his men, the heavy armor discarded in favor

greater freedom of movement. All were ordered to meet

oss the small forest.

set, he left Meg and the girl with the horses on the opposite side of

est, with instructions that if the rebels arrived so far, the two


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uld take two horses, dispersing the rest and escape. Then he returned to

vanced position with his men to wait for the dawn.

ave you prepared everything well, warrior - a voice was heard from

vering the trees. - But it has less than fifty men. And

lagraine sends nearly five hundred mercenaries and rebels against Saxons

u.

phen drew his sword and turned to confront the attack. but

tead of encountering a warrior to sneak through the trees and

hes, he saw no one. Then, a figure dressed all in green and

own jumped from a branch above the ground before him.

ou need a lot more than fifty men. - A sword

el snapped in air, wielded by two strong hands in front of a face

te bearded. - I offer my sword to your service.

phen stared incredulously at the apparition that appeared to have fallen from the sky.

es, much more - agreed, and raised his sword, not knowing whether to laugh

kill the cheeky fool. - But we'll manage. Maybe I should start

h you - suggested.

Maybe - the stranger agreed, the smile that curved her mouth

ighten the eyes of a cobalt blue. Had the features framed by

ck hair, face covered by equally dark beard. - But you

d every man who can wield a sword. Let me live,

this amounts to fifty-one against Malagraine.

ou are either an idiot or a fool - Stephen replied. The stranger threw the

d back and laughed. Then the tip of the sword buried in soft soil. or

s very brave or very reckless, before a broadsword.

eah, maybe a little of both. 'm Truan Monroe - said. - Offers

services. You would be wise to accept them. Kill me if you prefer

mended to read Stephen's thoughts - but then fail you a

ord and a very good fighter.


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th a quick move like lightning, who was smiling silly

ve a lie, took the sword by the hilt, pulled her off the ground

e a pen and targeted it with deadly precision, the end to

dge inches from the throat of Stephen..

r you can let me fight at your side and take my chances against the army

bel.

owing no outward sign of fear, Stephen asked:

ow will I know that you are not one of the rebels sent for Tregaron?

an turn against me in battle.

nroe shrugged.

I wanted you dead, english, you would have. Walking through the forest as

oar, stumbling over roots, a throng that everyone can hear,

ouncing their presence. I've had many opportunities.

nd I suppose you move silently! - Stephen replied.

an Monroe was ironic:

was in front of you before he could pull the sword.

phen stared at him through narrowed eyes. Learned with Rorke

zwarren, the true heart of a man is revealed by the eyes.

honest man stares directly, a coward or not concealed

.

Why make such an offer? - Asked.ou know why.

phen was wondering if it was the man costumed jester

ponded, or had some other meaning hidden in their largest

rds.

We just met. How would I know your reasons?

e smile on the face of the stranger reappeared, and Stephen was sure was


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West of the West? - John Lacey growled on the other side of

phen. - The man is an idiot. There is west of the West, only sea

ened.

an flashed a sly smile.

fool only when need be - answered. - And there are far more

st of the western sea than land could imagine.

en walked away to suggest to men of other traps Stephen

t could set the forest and to strengthen positions, giving the impression

t was one of them and fought at his side for years instead of being a

ent threat that needed to pass a test.

e battle took place at sundown, as Truan Monroe anticipated. while the

t of the rebel army encircled the hills, two hundred warriors attacked camp of tents andmpfires

oldering next to the forest only to discover that was completely

ert. Then if penetrated in the forest behind the tracks, signals

EN hairs deliberately left Stephen to attract them. an error

would cost them dearly.

ny died in the armed ambushes, pierced by cuttings, stuck in

ps, slaughtered by an enemy who could not see or hear until

was too late. A new breed of warriors followed. The fight

ame fierce, as far into the deeper woods.

phen's men fought and fled; then returning aen directions and fought again. Where to draw the enemy ever

ther into the forest, until it was dispersed through the woods. Then,

ch a predetermined point, Stephen ordered that the forest was

ned. The rebel army had no choice but to retreat. or

burned alive.

phen and his men fled the flames to the riverside, where Meg and


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mber waited, Sir Kay and tied horses. Truan Monroe appeared

ther part of the forest, with stained face and clothes full of

t. Had proved his loyalty several times but did not wait for words

phen gratitude.

Many escape the flames. And will not take up that bypass

est and give chase. We must escape while we can.

scape to where? - Asked Sir Kay. - The forest

ehind us and the river in front of us. - And the night fell quickly, with

h the threat of storm, which erases the fire escape and delay in

pery ground, he thought.

there a safe place nearby - Truan told them. - I'll take them. - saw

ressions of doubt the Warriors. - Or stay and greet the rebels,

en prompted.

phen hesitated. Beside her, the old Meg laid her hand on his arm. as

e knew their thoughts, said:

eel warrior. Should follow the path of the white wolf.

th an enemy army to the rear and unknown territory ahead

phen hesitated. Then, as the clouds parted for a brief

ment he saw a silvery glance at the horizon. Could be a ray,

ught. But to see the White Wolf posted the distance, in the sameection pointed Truan Monroe, decided.

o ahead - Truan said, and as he spoke, hundreds of meters

far beyond earshot, the white wolf jumped in front, as if

d them.

e location to which the Truan took was at an elevation of land in

fluence of two rivers. The old fortress was surrounded by water on three


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es, with high stone walls facing the valley below.

was dark and deserted, seemingly little more than a pile of rocks

h its walls collapsed on the walls below. However, in light of

on, who played at hiding among the clouds, the internal walls had a pale appearance

bright, a ghostly image of the place outside, in other

es.

know this place - Stephen said as they entered the gate in ruins, the

io to reveal the Roman influence in the gravel and destruction that

devastated the site over the centuries. - I've been here.

men scattered by the fortress, looking for a way to

up a barricade and fortify the entrance and a dozen other places

which one could enter easily. Stephen took a torch and went

etly the abandoned hallways, on the trail of the white wolf, which

mped into the ruins before them.

otted the wolf several times as they went, where the distance.

w, there was no sign of the creature, as he vistoriava the fortress.

umns, wide stone steps and stone walls and polished clear

miniscences of forts were similar to those of the empires of the East

t, a stronger convergence of influences that architecture

man, with its open balconies dominated by vines and moss.

der layers of dirt and destruction, the stones glowed, many painted

h sharp murals whose images spied the blackened plaster

oke.

ere had been a major fire there, as if someone had

d to burn it to the ground after a sack. But the stone and

rtar were there, a silent and ghostly skeleton of what

been before.

size, was very imposing a castellated fortress

lt for a king and could easily protect the population of


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mall town within its gates. That was before the cataclysm that fate decreed abruptly,

dging by the looks of things.

bles were overturned, chairs carved, scrapped to

ces. The floor of the rooms found most is covered ceramic

ken, rotten carpets reduced to mere lint and debris frominhabitants who had died trying to defend the place. the

letons were fewer than one might expect from such a

tress. Unless the army had been called away and left

protected castle. So, Stephen discovered the starry chamber.

e huge double doors hung on their hardware. The torch light, to

p through the opening, the walls glowed a pale blue. Overhead, the ceiling, the

st miraculous intact panels made of thick clear resin

ne with the light of a thousand stars that gazed center

m.

phen kicked the woods broken doors and crawled inside.

ard the noise of rats fleeing the light and the sound of the wind through the windows

ashed. So the torch lit the huge round table in the center

mber.

d at least five feet in diameter, the scratched surface and

avated. Been burned in several places when the invaders tried

troy it, in vain. But they had failed to do, the time had.

e table hung where one of the strongest legs rotted and had broken. The

face was covered with dust and debris, but the dirt and destruction are not

ld disguise the beauty of the piece or colored panels and

amented that had been carved into its top.


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ere were twelve panels across the border, each engraved with an emblem or

ignia. Inside, Latin words. Stephen bent down and lifted the torch

air to closely examine each panel. Tell a story

bravery, courage and sacrifice of a noble caste cavalry

mmitted to a common cause.

welve panels, twelve badges, twelve knights ... Exactly the same

had seen before.

running his fingers through symbols and emblems carved, a light

kered a darker corner of the room.

Who's there? - Stephen asked, when extending the torch forward, the sword

ore them in the other hand. - Identify yourself. Otherwise, you will die.ere was no answer.

m the shadows, behind a column, the young man was watching the Knight,

d holding the neck rough coat Fallon, white wolf,

mmunicating to him the thoughts through touch, to hold it back.

e warrior was tall and his shadow stretched out to touch hers, whereden in the darkness. Around his neck he wore a leather strap and

rune stone she lost the night she met him on the side of

side the court of the king.

remembered the touch of his hand on the pulse, and strong, yet gentle, and his

rlessness when that contact the boost through the portal of light,ng with it. And as before, experienced a mixture of fascination and

ible uncertainty. She wanted to run at the same time realize that it was

possible to escape.

Who's there? - Stephen asked again, circling the table and

ting closer.

rified of being discovered, Cassandra retreated into the shadows behind the


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umn. With the movement, his robe far-failed around the ankles, and

silver threads of pale blue fabric reflected the torchlight.

ssandra was sure that the rider turns. However he could not

ay, as if drawn to this man who, for a fatality, had

ourney through time to that same place and was now on

gain.

uld clear day in a few hours. News of the disaster in the forest is

uld spread rapidly to Tregaron. When saving a man, betrayed another,

meone who was like a brother to her.

felt the movement before the silent warning Fallon to warn that

hiding place was discovered. The torchlight away the shadows,

minating it briefly. In the expression of the warrior, she saw the

ognition.

before, Cassandra felt he had a bond with that man, when he reached out and touched her.

turned and fled through the portal of light, with Fallon, leaving the warrior

nk that was the victim of an illusion.

phen walked around the large room with the sword wielded the torch

cted to illuminate the shadows. His search brought back the enormous

nd table in the center. Surrounded her again, slowly. The words

in, translated, spoke of honor, duty, loyalty, trust, bravery,

tten hundreds of years before, in another time. A code of rules

es formed a solemn commitment.

naged, with difficulty, to decipher the first few words of the text,

the meaning seemed to shake the air as the other voices repeat.

elve voices who had committed their swords, blood and sacred honor

ing, was over five hundred years. Stephen knew the place.

as lost in myth and legend for so long that most doubted

t had ever existed. Camelot, the ancient kingdom of legendary King

hur and his brave and loyal knights of the Round Table.


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heard the snap of wood. The light from the second torch appeared in

ted door sill and spread across the floor of the room. Truan

nroe away debris and crawled inside.

raised the torch above his head. The light fell on the table with his

ient carvings and the twelve locations equally distributed around.To my sorority, pledge my sword, my blood and my

red honor ... "

expression was intense to repeat the old oath, within that

m, magnificent past, the legendary king.

o you know these words? - Stephen asked, watching the young

rrior who had joined them only recently.

e jester, who wore a sword with the best of the ability

rriors, made no comment comic or a smile

d, but it was "replaced" by someone who did not know Stephen.

es, I know - Truan replied, his voice low as if lost in

mories. Was serious, the air of laughter outside the beautiful face and eyes

vocative.

.. Beyond this life, beyond death, until the final journey to my soul

o the light ... "

e words seemed to echo in the soot-blackened walls, the ceiling

rry dome shaped, and sigh at the stone floor, as some

litany that crossed the centuries. Like men who

pronounced that oath murmur the tomb, a

minder.

en the spell broke when several men also Stephen

t the camera and entered by the stop burst.


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We left the stronghold and await your orders - Sir Kay

ounced, intonation of voice usually become high and low

erent, when his gaze moved, intrigued, unusual room

und ceiling adorned with your stars.

vin and John Lacey were equally amazed to examine the site. of

cey found an ancient sword, fallen from the hand of a warrior

lded, and now, by time, into a powder.

vin had heard stories of the legendary Round Table and frowned,

e, on the ruins of the table that was there, as if waiting for

rriors take their places again.

What will you do? - Asked Truan, spiked look in Stephen. -w that twisted the lion's tail.

phen felt that his men were examining the same question in

ir expressions.

here is a gap background with enough water - Gavin explained. - And now that

ow how we are fighting against, and then we can rest

k to England.

he king will support us once you know the size of the enemy army and

Saxons joined him - Sir Kay amended.

was clear that they felt that they should retire to England

he face of the numerical gap. It was the logical thing to do. But Tregaron and

lsh prince he served had no way of knowing the true strength

t will face them.

phen turned to De Lacey, whom he trusted as a brother. it

o was a bastard and understand what motivated Stephen to challenge

father and head to the lands of the West.


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ou have not talked yet. What do you say?

n stared at him in stunned expression. Although their friendship was deep,

phen had always taken their own decisions. In his veins ran the

al blood of Normandy. Did not need the advice of anyone. same

as if to ask the opinion of each of its

ights.

We have come too far to avenge the deaths of our comrades - From

cey said. - Malagraine is still alive. Do not do what we came

We are only fifty - Stephen pondered. He knew what he thought each

of his men. - Even with the losses in forest Frodmir, theynumber us at least eight to one. We are in a foreign land,

ere no one will help us.

hey do not know how many we are - insisted De Lacey. - We may be

y or five hundred. And we have these walls to protect us.

es - Stephen murmured thoughtfully - have these w

Documents

Legacy of Merlin Daughter of Light