Chapter 1815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ6WKKlLgp8
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Even as a babe in a crib I was aware... I might not have undestood everything but I was aware.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR8ZUqACQrH
What I was the most aware about was the soft sweet smelling creature that held me and comfored be and fed me from the soft containers on her chest. Dangling from her neck was a gold chain with a medalion whose image was that of a gold greeneyed dragon815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo4UKsJfWQV
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Two years later I came to know the soft creature that held and cared for me was my Mother. I still liked to play with the medalion around her neck.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbVM05DzD44
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She often talked to me about it., “Your name is Rafter De Louis, your Father was the Crown Prince Duvalson of the Kingdom of Dulciana, Remember this medalion identifies you. Your uncle John Mare De Louis had your grandfather and your father killed. His minions are looking for you.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsX31gILEhb
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I listened to everything she said and I remembered, “The night your father was killed he hung the medalion around my neck to give to you when you are ready”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN4NVHy2Fbj
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In my young mind I remembered the soft beds and the tapestries that hung on the walls... but now we hid in a tent and lay upon old blankets and mother cooked over an open fire. She had to fetch and carry water and we only had her old maid servant, I did not understand.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrqxRCL5k4I
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One night my mother rushed into the tent pulled off the medalion and said to maid Ceil, “John Mare is searching every tent...Take Rafe and flee.” She leaned down and placed the Medalion around my neck. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2N7EPDBsem
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Maid Ceil grabbed me up and ran out the back flap of the tent. This was the last I ever saw of my Mother.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfUwEWYxuqG
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Maid or rather, Mama Ceil as I came to call her took me to a Wizard's Keep. No one in their right mind would ever try to search a Wizard's Keep. There we lived a peaceful life till... Mama Ceil caught the ague and died when I was eight.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhxUmqhD7Ml
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*****815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrJ6kz5v73O
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Wizard's Keep815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHgQMvzb2ep
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Mama Ceil knocked on the door of the Wizard's Keep. After several knocks the door was opened by an elderly gent wearing an old grey Robe...815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjOoDtLe9dI
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“Yes ...may I help you?”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvmNKn3bwNw
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Mama Ceil says, “ My mistress Rebecca said if the time came... I was to come to you...and here we are.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbaW0CdhvjG
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“Yes you are … but who are you and time for what?”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9W2204tQtP
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Mama Ceil stammered and stuttered then her face lit up and she said , Oh, Oh I forgot, Rafe show him the medallion.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡat1QdLFJCe
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I proudly displayed the medallion that my Mother had given to me.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR3XMDrjoHG
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The old man hardly able to speak said, “Put the medallion away oh my goodness inside quickly, quickly”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ730fsLrDtZ
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That is how my new life began, I made friends with some of the children of the village especially the younger weaker ones. I stood up for them against the bigger and older boys even at three I hated bullies. I myself was as large as the bullies and they tried to get me to favor their side. It didn't work, the first time they started picking on a weaker child I jumped in and started swinging. I didn't know at that time but my blows were magically enhanced.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgD1ls1uzmK
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My best friend was a kid we called “Sneaker” he could fit in the tiniest places. He was just small. Next was Bean he was a skinny kid and Lump, well he was fat and it wasn't from eating to much. Most street kids rarely had more than a meal a day and often not even that. Lastly was our tomboy Mira a red haired freckled face waif who wasn't afraid of any thing She tried her best to hide the point to her ears.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOjFIxvUy08
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Although we were not supposed to tell about it, The thieves guild was three houses down from the Wizards Keep. I guess you can say I was being hid right under John Mare's nose in the capital city, Dulci. They called me Rapper be cause I busted heads of Bullies.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8rcebxYjjZ
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The thieves I guess you could say adopted us... it wasn't long till we were all quite adept at snitching purses as well as other things. Sneaker became a 'caser' He and Bean made a team. Bean would lift Sneaker up to a window, that I had checked for wards, I was able to read magic. I didn't yet know how to bypass the wards as yet but my wizard training would soon teach me that..815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTDdS8q4lko
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Sneaker would case the place while Mira would watch the front and Lump and I would watch the sides. Afterwards Sneaker would give the info to a Housebreaker and after the job was done he would give us a share.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5N0Yn0Z2gM
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By the time I turned twelve I was learning how to fight hand to hand and with clubs and night sticks. I quickly learned that although the night stick was good … there seemed to be something missing. I bored a hole in the handle and threaded a leather strap through it and then placed the strap around my wrist. With a flick of the wrist I would add eighteen inches to my reach. Thugs were quite surprised when they were expecting the nightstick toward the head but instead it hit in the groin.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeRCx5828ez
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Sneaker had remained small, Bean had grown taller, Lump was no longer fat he had turned to muscle.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQSy3aXWhK3
Mira was beginning to look like a girl, but you better not get caught starring at her charms. And me I was 5'10'' and about 180# it too was muscle.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK4dd3mx5Uf
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Tommy the Rat was a guild master he had asked our group to join up but we said no and that we would help when needed but to us it was just fun.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGl9nOpogrP
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Since The Elder insisted I learn reading and writing as well as the spell books it was decided that my friends be taught as well. We were able to earn extra money as messengers.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOGdg19OVd0
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One day while I was training at the Keep the elder sent me on an errand to the spice shop for cinnamon. It was an excuse to get me clear for awhile and I knew it. I hid out and watched, about an hour later four Horsemen stopped at the keep. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlUeeqXqpL4
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I had Sneaker hide out close so he could listen and report.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCa47v957Ud
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“The elder opened the door and ask the Horsemen if he could be of any help.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpcJUp0ZEMt
The leader of the four asked if there had been a maid die from the Ague recently... The Elder replied that was the truth. He asked if she had a boy with her. Elder said no and that the only boy at the keep was his apprentice. The Horseman demanded to see this apprentice and was told he was away on an errand and was not expected back for hours.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU309vl7KLj
For some reason this upset the horseman and he drew his sword. “The elder waved his fingers and chanted. The Horseman and his companions repeated after the Elder. The boy is not here and never has been,” they got on their horses and rode away.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqfFVkRXzju
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Sneaker asked, “Whats going on Rapper?”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAjKqtows32
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I smiled and shrugged my shoulders.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlPDZ56Zy63
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Chapter 2815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4U8kKY0lDV
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As I grew older my second sight or intuition seemed to be stronger. It seemed that I could fathom what people were thinking. Especially if it pertained to me.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2UT9lNqNB6
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I liked to eat lunch at the Sleeping Lion. Momma Mavis was the cook, she called us ruffians but our bowls always seemed to be filled higher than the regular customers. Today I was dipping into the lamb stew, it needed a bit of salt. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDpJ8Fwmdjz
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I looked and the salt was at the other end of the table, I put out my hand thinking of my need for salt. I tried to get some ones attention but there was an argument in progress and everything else was being ignored. I was getting exasperated and thinking harder about my need for salt when...Whap! the salt bowl slapped the palm of my hand. My mouth fell open and I looked around but no one seemed to notice. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp6opuUhPKL
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I was puzzled as well as surprised, I had a class with the Elder Wizard after lunch I would ask him. That decided I went back to eating and joking with Mira and put it right out of my mind.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8KDMSSm8NC
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The Elder gave me a spell book and a book with blank pages and had me copy from one to the other. He kept telling me that because of who my parents were I was going to be a Mage. As usual I laughed. Then I reached for the inkwell and it landed in my hand.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDYBgFuyGxP
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Elder gasped and pointed at the inkwell, “Did you just call that inkwell with your mind?”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1mblXMy3ZH
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I looked frightened but answered truthfully, “Yes.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ0lh5JuHcs
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“What else can you do that you haven't told me.” The Elder was glad that he had released my friends from this part of the class. This needed to be kept quiet for a while.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe7V9PvhZAd
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So I told him about the voices in my head but they were hard to understand because there were so many. Also guard Logan was picking on Mira. So I had used my mind to Pinch Momma Mavis's fat bottom. She turned around and dumped the Water pitcher she was holding on his head. He ran out of the Inn with Momma in Pursuit.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPSeI3yPO60
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Elder had a big laugh about that and said, “ Your training will change starting tomorrow I will try to teach you how to control the voices as well as other things. Be careful and not use your mind powers so someone might see. The King, he sneeringly replied is suspicious enough as it is, And for the Gods sake keep that Medallion hidden.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlFogTboZY1
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Chapter 3815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkWRgb36Oiy
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Acting King, or rather The Regent, John Mare De Louis, was pacing back and forth in the throne room. Speaking to his Chamberlain. “We have to find that kid without that medallion the Cardinal will not crown me King.I am a farce now. Even the peasants are laughing behind my back.” 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyZArHPSMOq
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The third man in the throne room stood out of the shadows, Master Assassin Haver Was so non nondescript that he could blend in with any crowd. “I have told you give me a free hand and the guild will find him and retrieve the medallion, 100 Gold pieces. Just say the word.''815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3lq5aWeRAi
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“I am not ready for the Chaos you would cause to the country. Besides the Elves of Bramble Wood is just looking for an excuse to start a war. Right now it is a war we could not possibility win. But if I have the Medallion that would be proof that Prince Rafter De Louis was dead. The Cardinal would have no choice but to crown me King. John Mare ended the meeting by saying he was hungry and pulled the bell cord to summoned a page.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpDANQuo2kG
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Haver was disgusted with the Regent not allowing him to put a deadly search together. He was sure he could get results and he probably only have to kill eight or nine people to get those results. He decided he would still keep his eyes open.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsPosc0cf7v
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The Chamberlain was opposed to the Regent but since he enjoyed living he chose not to speak of his opposition of the Regent. That didn't mean he had to help him either. He looked back before leaving the Throne room in time to see the Regent slap the page for some minor infraction. He hated cruelty.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVVEKa9nr20
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Rapper was relaxing in the Market square. He leaned against a post on the fringe of the square he had spent a silver at the sausage stand. The rest of his friends had tasks to complete. Rapper was glad he didn't have any tasks today. He watched the Nobles and Merchants and tapped in to the workings of their minds. He was still struggling to separate the different thoughts it was like trying to understand a maelstrom.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2HaTS9kOXc
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Then he felt a clear thought blasting at him.”I will find him then I will charge the Regent a fortune... he has to be here some where. “815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdyFowHQN6z
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Rapper was startled, he scanned the crowd but was unable to discern who the thinker might happen to be. No Luck, Rapper edged back and behind the vendors carts. He observed the square and tried to pick out the person with the errant thoughts but no luck. He hung out till almost dark before sticking to the shadows he made his way to the Keep. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ71rcc86w7P
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The Elder was waiting for him...Rapper told him everything and how the voice had entered his mind with out him seeking. They talked and laid some guide lines for his attempts to hone his skills. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZGPpZZFy3m
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They were up till the wee hours and the candle was almost gone.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsIHAdeI2H3
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I was rudely awaken by the slamming of the door to my room. I raised my head expecting the Elder. Instead there was Apprentice Mage Arture. “Whats the matter Arture ? Are you crying? “815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuH2Iuu4AnT
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“It's Bean he's been taken by the City Guards.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7ppmbWk8O7
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“Why?” 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYkTEXfFx05
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“He was standing outside a Nobleman's window. “815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSpPbK8cxbF
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I rushed out on the street and found Lump with tears in his eyes, “It was my fault I was on watch. Last night I ate sumpin' that messed up my tummy. It hit me hard and I had to run to an outhouse. By the time I got back... they had him.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB9h62zdbkN
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“Which Nobleman.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSnJSQUs5cu
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“Nobleman Frane, you know next to Noble Pritcher.''815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxAWELbXjhp
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“Pritcher isn't that where Maggie works in the Kitchen...?” Maggie was one of our friends and she slips us goodies from the kitchen on occasion. Noble Pritcher knew about it but turned a blind eye. We classed him as a good Noble.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN9zLbjlfeC
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We went around to Noble Pritcher's kitchen an called to Maggie. We told her what had happened and she just smiled and said she knew what to do. Maggie was 16 and what we called a looker. She spoke to the cook then filled a basket with rolls and bread. When she came outside she told me to go with her 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl2LRi2LMcI
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She told me not to talk unless she nodded. She stopped at the Guardroom and knocked on the door. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjhELwaVMC4
A guard opened and said, “What'cha want?”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGeWE7BXY53
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Maggie smiled, “I was told one of your Guards took my delivery boy Silas”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh9xT8975Uo
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The guard Captain stepped up and asked, “Well if he is your delivery boy why was he outside Noble Frane's house?”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLPS83NMvi9
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“First time he has been there he just got the houses mixed up.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEMJwVcWBMW
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The guard Capt. Said, “Well just who was he delivering too.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFoGemdYqPA
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Maggie looked at me and nodded. I smiled and spoke up, “He was to deliver them to me for the Wizards Keep, I am an Apprentice there they call me RD and I am sure the Elder is getting upset waiting on his bread.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfIL5RsUy5D
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The Capt. Told the jailer to release Bean. When they brought him in the Capt admonished him and reminded him to be more careful from now on.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcIn5khnZnB
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We all kept a straight face till we were well away from the guard room then we let out a sigh of relief. Maggie handed the basket to Bean and directed him to deliver it to the keep kitchen just in case the Guard Capt. Did a follow up.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOeE0PnCByD
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Off sped Bean with the bread and we thanked Maggie profusely then I went to check on Sneaker.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH4j0DhfORZ
Sneaker and Lump was standing with Mira on the street corner. I asked Sneaker, “Who were you doing the casing job for?”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqGDMtIp1eb
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Sneaker replied, “ Gomer''815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAsppzJGH4H
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“When you give him your report tell him that he should put off the job for at least two weeks. The guards are going to be watching the house just in case.” I pretended I over heard the Capt. Telling this to the guards. Really I had a moment of clarity and was able to pull this from his mind. He really wasn't sure we were telling the truth. The Cook, May, told me later the Guard had been around checking to see if the bread had been delivered.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw0IBsXiyIq
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May told him. “Yes are you hinting for a piece.” The guard stammered and thanked her when she cut him off a piece of bread and slathered a mess of cheese on it . 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5x3BMGyFs7
Chapter 4815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBXz27geZf1
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I was getting better at grasping one voice and clearing the rest of random chatter, The major problem was I still could not discern which mind was sending the thread. Then one day it was like a vision... I could see out of someone elses eyes and I had a clear path to his thoughts . I was still surprised when he grabbed a lady and drug her down an alley and began ripping her clothes off. When he pulled down her bodice and her white breast popped out I almost stumbled.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTkosvAyyuO
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I ran to the alley while slipping my hand through the leather strap attached to the night stick. I turned into the alley as he was lifting her skirts, I could see her milky white thighs. I flicked out the night stick and it flashed out and made contact to his shoulder. He grunted and turned toward me, I noticed his size, he was a good ten inches taller than I was and he held a large knife in his hand.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYWlIIhOeG3
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I flicked the nightstick again the handle appeared to be headed for his face he put up his knife hand. The handle reached the length of the strap, the handle came to a stop. Inertia caused a pendulum effect and the end of the nightstick was on a collision course with his manhood which was in view. He was ready to take advantage of the lady. Then contact was made he screamed and went down. I rapped him across the back of the head and he went down and out.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrauSy6X08W
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The lady hadn't seen any thing her dress was still over her head. Momentarily I admired her wares, the first I had ever seen, oh well. I helped her up and directed her back to the square and told her to scream for a guard. While she followed my direction I slipped into the crowd and vanished.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhMS6Fts381
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The next day it was all over the square about the gallant rescuer of a Noble Lady that was almost raped.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyiWbk6uyEa
The rapist had been captured but the gallant rescuer had disappeared. The Noble Lady's Father had offered a reward. Many attempts were made to collect it but none had the real story. I had kissed her inner thigh almost to the VEE before helping her up.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj9xcEZm7d4
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I often followed her when she came to the Market, but she never knew. I often thought of the musky smell I had been near and how I was drawn … I knew I had no chance with her not only was she of Noble birth but she was at least eight years my senior.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrqrEsiOonr
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I began watching Mira more often and noticed the small protrusions on her chest. One day our group was outside the gate and romping through the woods and I fell in to the river. It was in a small cove where the water ran slow as to be gentle. To be truthful it was our swimming hole and we would have ended up there sooner or later. The next thing I knew the rest of them were in the water also. We played for hours then crawled out to enjoy the afternoon sun. Without thinking we all stripped off our shirts and laid them out to dry.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZY6Ju2wQTI
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We were all laughing and joking till Mira raised back up from spreading her shirt as she set back she put her hands behind her and stretched with her eyes closed. Suddenly everyone went quite her breast with nipples the size of the 1st joint of a pinkie finger was standing proudly. None of us, except me, had ever seen a bare chested girl before.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN5ojnYhTdL
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Mira noticed the silence and opened her eyes and saw every one looking at her she said, “What?”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8nMflNc0JI
She looked at each one of us the others were to enraptured to say anything. She looked at me, I nodded my head and stared at her nipples again. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF543s7tnSe
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She looked down at her chest and her face turned Red and she put her arm across her chest and grabbed her shirt, turned her back and put her shirt back on. Sneaker couldn't leave it alone and asked, “Where did you get those, they sure are pretty.” We all nodded.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk4O6MZ7yMg
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Mira jumped up and ran back to the City gate. Before following I had to explain all I knew about the birds and the bees. By the time we reached the gate they knew as much as me... which was almost nothing.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT4uKsCFB85
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Chapter 5815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0jG2NyUwnO
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The years flew by and we grew up, Sneaker was still under 5' and could still get into small places. Bean was close to 6'5'' and still skinny but still quite strong. Lump was 6'2'' and weighed 220 all solid muscle. Mira was a vision her bosom was the size of small grapefruits. Her red hair appeared to be flames while her freckles were just enticing, this delectable package was on a 5'3'' frame. Her ears .had become more noticeable and cause many fights. I had grown a little as well I was 6' even and weighed 220 and no fat. I was 17.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRrJXtXBpgq
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John Mare De Louis had become a fat slob and his rule was becoming heavy handed on the people of the realm.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7gnqzAG0vW
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One day the Elder called me to his office and said, “The time has come the people are repressed and have been taxed till they can hardly buy food. The City Guards favor the masses but the palace guards seems to lean toward brutality.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJvLZt9MKLP
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After listening to the Elder I began to plan. The first thing was a whisper campaign I had my core group start the rumors.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ81GfjiMZyJ
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“Have you heard, the real king has come of age, and he is not pleased with his Uncle. He is raising an army to reclaim his throne.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUONPWXRkPU
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There were a large number of break-ins at Nobles and Merchants homes. It seemed odd that it was only the supporters of the Regent who were hit the hardest. A little Redheaded Elf paid a visit to the Bramble Wood elves. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc91OGmzVWd
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A caravan consisting of two wagons pulled by huge draft horses. Wagon one was occupied by the Red headed Elf. The second by the Wizard Elder. The rest of us walked it took us a week to reach the border between Dulciana and Bramble Wood. There we stopped and set up camp. We made no overt moves in fact other than a night stick (mine) and a Staff (Elders) we carried no weapons. We all were a little uncomfortable in the fancy clothes the Elder had supplied. That is all but Mira she reveled in the finery she was dressed in today. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbdBH68B91w
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Each day as we made this trek that begun with six people. Each day others joined us, by the time we reached the border we were Two hundred fifty strong with more arriving daily. The Elder used his Magic only to provide food for the masses.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGhkOOXg5p7
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We waited at the border for four days. On the morning of the fifth day three Elves appeared in front of Mira's tent. Mira invited them into her tent and sent word to the Elder and I to join her. I entered the tent and stood behind Mira. While awaiting the Elder I observed the Elven party. Each was blond with hair to the shoulders, their noses were almost pointed. The stand out feature was their eyes, they seem to penetrate deeply into the soul of the person before them. All three of them were locked onto Mira not even acknowledging that I was even there.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiv1A6x2Bpi
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They remained so until the Elder entered. He they acknowledged and slightly bowed. The Elder nodded and moved behind Mira next to me.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFPgDj2hjRu
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Mira spoke, “The rightful King of Dulciana has come of age and seeks an alliance to over throw the Usurper John Mare De Louis. I am Admira cousin to king Felies ruler of Bramble Wood. I by my own choice have lived in Dulciana to keep the peace between the two lands.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8EfRZsCxg4
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“ The time has come to declare your recognition of the True King of Dulciana and to bring out the treaty of Bayer Bridge which our two countries vowed to support each other.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkeli8hFNvH
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The Three Elves, none looking to be over twenty, huddled together. Then one stepped forward, “I am Admiran brother of Admira and Cousin to King Felis. To my right is Sir Slender Shoot in Command of the Palace Guards. To my left, Prince Felieson, Crown Prince of Bramble Wood. Heed my words we have reluctantly kept our side ot the treaty of Bayer Bridge. All though it has been trying, John Mare has continued to raise tariffs for the goods we have imported to Dulciana. It has been almost useless to trade with them.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ70yTvP0Jch
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Mira looked at me. I nodded, She stated, This will be evaluated and an agreed on tariff will be set for each lands imports.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRgCFByZS7i
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Admiran continued, “How do we know the rightful King is prepared to agree and that he is ready.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFFY6HucSzk
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“Take our delegation before the King and all will be made clear.” 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeG1y9zDLbS
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The Elves again huddled together, Admiran stepped forward, “ You will have our answer before the third Sun sets.” They turned and left the tent an the camp.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL26F6HSGS9
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“Well what do you think, I said as I paced inside the tent.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxa7ntjkunk
The Elder as usual played his cards close to his chest and Mira said “I guess we will have to wait and see.” *******815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlKIHhNOeba
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The Elf delegation wasted no time before they were in the presence of King Felies. They bowed to the King but he waved it way … “Yes, Yes, what did they say ?”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA7v1sqdNkL
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Prince Felieson acted as their spokesman, “Father they said that if they were brought before you, all would be made clear. I think the young man is the rightful King. Our cousin Admira is to confidant for that not to be the case.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYBaNQ1RdF3
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King Felies asked them if they were aware of why Admira was raised in Dulciana. They all nodded “NO.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpDcIN37BXX
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Chapter 6815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOHQoymE5PF
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The “Treaty of Bayer Bridge”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkncn6UZaxo
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King Felies leaned back from the table and looked steadily at King Duval De Louis the ruler of Dulciana. They had been discussing the terms of the treaty which would make their friendship official. The final codicil of the treaty would be the eventual joining of the two family's. King Duval had a new born Grandson. King Felies had a female cousin In the direct line the two were bound to each other. She and her Mother would live in Dulciana and be raised with the Crown Prince's son. When he came of age they would be married.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiiHZP2JV7b
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Two years later King Duval and his son were dead...and the grandson was missing. King Felies did the best he could with the Treaty. He was still hoping the rightful ruler was still alive. And Now....815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCMrJIkbV3K
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King Felies told his son, “Yes bring them before me.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS4x1cxtTUD
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*****815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKG8uOW02UT
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Mira had been aware of Rafe's identity for years. Once when they were swimming in the river she had seen the Medallion and recognized the Dragon of gold with green eyes. She kept her silence, she was aware of the Treaty and that she was promised to Rafe. She had always known …815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZriQ6npVEm
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She looked toward Rafe and smiled ….815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9xO83cPPVN
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There was a loud noise out side of the tent and people yelling a head was shoved into the tent and an Elf yelled, “Quickly you have to get across the Bridge. Dulciana's Army is on the march.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQe731SF8DM
815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlrZYEoW73F
We all rushed across the bridge only to be swallowed up by the Elven Army. A squad of them took down the tents and hitched the wagons and brought it all across the bridge. Then the Elven Army lined their side of the border. At the Bridge itself was a group of Elven Mages Led by the wizard Elder.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJKPXfZHVEl
An Elf walked to the center of the Bridge with a paint brush and bucket of paint, He drew a line three inches wide and wrote Dulciana on their side of the line and Bramble Wood on the other.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBzoiDBqXCk
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In less than an hour the Dulciana Army came into view. Nearer and nearer they came till they were at the bridge. The Baron who was leading the Army walked to the center of the bridge and was close to stepping over the line when the elves on the bridge lowered there Lances toward the Baron's chest. He stopped and backed up. Only then did he notice the freshly painted border. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4rjUllMiql
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The Elven Commander asked the Baron, “What business do you have in Bramble Wood.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4qUinFvMug
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The Baron stated, “I have been dispatched to arrest a traitor.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkkvahNlqR6
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“And just who is this traitor and what did he do?”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs3AtuFy5cP
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“ I am not sure of his actual ID but he is one of four street kids, and as to what he actually did I don't know. What I do know is he is wanted by the King John Mare De Louis.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBr69Pxu8RC
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The Commander smiled, “As you can see we have near 300 refugees and at least 50 of them fits that category. But first King Felies has informed me he does not Recognize anyone named John Mare De Louis as any thing... except as a criminal.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUie7yu2IWs
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“I advise you to turn this ragtag bunch around before My archers lose their strength and loose the 100 arrows that are aimed at you and yours.” “ On the Count of ten My Lancers are going to clear this Bridge.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhRrzLJM0Cq
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The Baron began to back away from the bridge and set up camp. He set up a bridge watch at the Dulciana bridge end. The Elves did the same at their end. Traffic was not stopped on the Bridge but was closely scrutinized.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrIwLSFOCA1
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A messenger was received at Mira's tent and she was informed that King Felies was ready to receive them.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡukhEF6JjCw
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A few hours later they were ushered in to King Felies's presence. King Felies asked for introductions.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiPH7b6Udl2
Mira stated, “I you know but I am Admira Cousin to you King Felies and promised to Rafter De Louis.” 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLuoVuS5pZ3
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Rafe's mouth dropped wide open not in disappointment, just surprise.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfChFSKDu6p
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Mira continued, “You also know the Wizard Elder, The rather small gent is Lonnie Better known as Sneaker. Next to hin is Silas Better known as Bean, Next to him is Tom also known as Lump. Last but not least is Rafter De Louis, known as The Rapper or Rafe or just RD. The rightful King of Dulciana.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUY3Joqv4ld
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All of his friends were mouth agape never suspecting their friend was a Royal. King Felies says, Lets see proof.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCMH2SGDeWm
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Rafe stepped forward and reached inside his Tunic and removed the medallion...The green eyes of the gold dragon transfixed all who saw it. All of Rafe's friends dropped to their knees and bowed before him. He told them to stop bowing it made him uncomfortable.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHP75XLTQ68
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“ I was raised by The Elder and by Mamma Ceil, My mother was Rebecca and my Father was Crown Prince Duvalson, Son of King Duval De Louis. Both were killed by Assassin Haver by order of John Mare De Louis.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNNr3g6PnEn
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Word has been sent to the Cardinal that I have come of age.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzC3Ucp52Q3
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“I accept the betrothal of Admira, I looked at Mira and she was blushing and smiling, Wedding to take place after I am crowned.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJoqjWaq9RA
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I turned back to King Felies and asked, “Sire what say yee?”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6uLOqQVWGd
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He looked to the Elder, “Elder what is your story?” ********815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡalobkioPnr
Chapter 7815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA20sQvgVuZ
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Elder's Story815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpYPHN69IRf
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“ I will first tell Mama Ceil”s story. I was folding clothes in a tent out side the village of Collie while my charge Rafter De Louis played on the floor. My mistress Princess Rebecca rushed in and told me John Mare's men were searching every tent. She said I was to take Rafter to the elder. She removed the medallion from her neck and placed it on Rafter's neck and told him never ever lose it ..He was three.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxvEPuH4e39
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“He and I crawled through a tear in the rear of the tent. We slid out and down to the river which was near. I waded out in the river and holding Rafter I turned on my back with Rafter between my breast we floated down the river.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAyDG4f7xKU
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“We neared the Bayer Bridge, I directed us to the Dulciana bank. We followed the roadway although we stayed in the forest. There were merchants traveling along the road which allowed me to snitch enough food to keep us going. It took us almost two weeks to make our way to the Elder's Keep. We arrived near the hour of noon but waited till almost dusk before knocking and asking for the Elder.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡynQ7duYyNJ
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Elder 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVNVrzWKYTj
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“ I was enjoying a glass of ale when I heard a pounding on the door of the keep I was alone my compatriots were all on errands. There was not many of us to begin with. I am Mage Sabron but called Elder. Also abiding in the Keep was Mage Aquinas, Mage Arture, Arture's apprentice Jody and their cook/maid, May.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiammsHhIbH
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I went to the door and opened it to find a woman and a babe, they both were filthy. “Yes can I help you.” The woman spoke.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoQtR3OIYzR
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“My Mistress Rebecca said that the time would come and we was to come to the Keep and here we are.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZtRc80F9Da
I said , “Well yes you are but who are you and time for what.” 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTGX2QXiCc0
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The Woman's face turned red and she stammered and stuttered and then said, “Oh I forgot Rafe show him the medallion”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfLm9CFOPCY
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The boy pulled out the medallion, I got flustered and told him to put it away and pushed them into the keep. I made him a leather bag to put the medallion in it had a drawstring so it kept the medallion covered. Mama Ceil helped May in the kitchen until she came down with the Ague and died I think the boy was about eight. By that time he was already the protector of the weak. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4wdbesz9iy
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“I knew he had a magic background so I began to train him. To insure he learned everything I also recruited all his friends so they also have been schooled except in magic. I did not try to influence them but allowed them to view the world and to make up their on minds. I am proud to say the weak and downtrodden have always been taken care of by these few. They also learned from the street and learned to bypass the cruel. “815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWxZXQiRbWN
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“One other thing Look at him closely. Now the picture that was painted at the signing of the Bayer Bridge. Look close at his Grandfather.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjvN6XZ0d6t
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Every one turned to the picture hanging on the wall. It looked like an older Rafe. The elder said, That is all I have to say.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡioZcr5GqOl
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King Felies thought about all that he had been told and all he had seen. He remembered his friends voice and was surprised to hear that voice coming out of this young man. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡih6zd2peeA
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The King rang for a page and told him make ready rooms for my party. I stopped him and told him that we have over 250 followers at the River I will stay with them, my friends nodded that they agreed.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTOz2CgWNS3
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We departed for the camp. As soon as we arrived the Baron was asking to speak with me. I met him at the center of the bridge.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJwXPd9jVOw
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“Might I see the Medallion.” I removed it from my tunic. He stared at it. “I must do some thinking I was sure you were dead and with that thought in mind to try and protect my people. He asked and I gave my oath. Now I know not what to do.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOu2TbBMl5Z
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I looked deep into his heart and said, “I am sure the right decision will be made. In fact I would bet there will be a lot of soul searching going on.” 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzCqEPzP0f0
I heard a noise and looked over my shoulder to see a contingent of the Elven Army began lining the River. Their Commander walked onto the bridge and Handed the Baron a scroll. He opened it and read aloud. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd1eRoConpF
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To John Mare De Louis, “We the kingdom of Bramble Wood do here by recognize the rightful King of Dulciana ' Rafter De Louis'.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgwlU4D7pxE
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In so doing I King Felies place the Army of Bramble Wood as his to Command.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXdKfHAc64i
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The is a formal Declaration of War, Not with Dulciana but with the armies of the Usurper John Mare De Louis. You are here by given Five Days to answer .815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzOGgAo9MQe
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Signed: King Felies 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp1j4jtJqhm
Ruler of the Kingdom of Elves Known as Bramble Wood 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY4SIYMY0YO
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The Baron ordered his men to fall in... and departed at once... The Baron called his fastest runner and gave him the scroll to deliver to the Regent.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmdMDnNvD1h
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Upon reaching the crossroad, straight was to Dulci, right was to his Land Holdings. Baron Phelps hesitated then called a halt. He called all his Officers to a meeting.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYneSzJtG71
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He looked to each one, some had been with him for years and some just a short time. “Our long lost King Rafter De Louis has come of age and is demanding his rightful place, to the dismay of the regent. A few years ago I gave an oath to the Regent.” He noticed some shuffling and whispering among them. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhfqGQKOfqO
“Twenty years ago I also gave my Oath to defend the Crown. Since the Crown belongs with Rafter De Louis and not the Regent that is the oath I must honor.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC8uiAuAXuG
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“Any of you who wish to be absolved from your oath to me and wish to follow the Regent is free to do so. But first I wish you to speak these words to your men. I leave for my home in one hour. All who wish to honor their oaths can follow. All who wish to follow the Regent may depart with honor.” 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsn23rB7MOx
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The Baron's Page lay a cloak in the shade of a mighty Oak. The Baron sat and leaned back and closed his eyes. From the noises he was hearing there must be quite a discussion going on. After a few minutes … nothing but silence. He nodded off to sleep.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTfiJPYI7D3
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Until his page gently shook him, “Baron the hour has past.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGpylbOOyZo
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The Baron opened his eyes to see all his troops lined up and prepared to move out on the path to the right. He stood walked to his horse and said, “Very Well Mount UP.” He tried to hide his emotion as he brushed a wayward tear from his eye.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6jTU48KrU7
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“Messenger, take this Message to King in Waiting Rafter De Louis. We the men of Baron Phelps Stand to your right.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSq8DzIeuxW
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Even before the Baron could reach his estate the power of gossip had raised its ugly head. It had been shouted throughout the lands that Baron Phelps Favored the King in Waiting. As he rode into the grounds of the Estate there were messengers from his fellow Nobles wishing to confirm his decision. Some were condemning him but most were aligning with him and offering their help.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSOI0WL6tQk
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I stepped out of the tent to a blast of noise . I was almost stunned, overnight the supporters had increased to over a thousand men and women. There was also a line of messengers awaiting his attention. One by one he read the messages. The list of support by the Nobles was staggering. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that Baron Phelps had been the first to issue his support. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMMEdqw4FOk
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I sent message to them all accepting their support and asking them to Join me for a meeting and to bring their second in command as well. The Elves set up tents and supplied food stuffs. We searched through our people and was soon able to fill the tents with cooks and kitchen help.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPZG1t712Dd
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Bean and Sneaker began interviewing our masses. It took over two weeks to establish what each was good at. The first and most important was Scouts and Runners. It was a welcome to know we had a core group to train others. They consisted of twelve lancers and eight archers all thanks to the City Guard. They were led by the Captain of the Guard I smiled when I learned they had brought the entire armory of the City Guards. I had the Captain set up companies and squads and begin training. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIJHJGXRuoV
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It wasn't long till the ladies were making vests with a Green Eyed Gold Dragon in the center on a field of blue. I was even more surprised when a spar was erected and a silk flag of Blue with the same Dragon represented. I never knew where the material came from.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvqD29wxMuZ
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I was most surprised by the lack of response from John Mare. I had sent scouts into Dulci and awaited their return. Days later I had my answer. There was desention in the ranks and mass desertions. It was said he was hanging his own men. I guess you could say there was a trust issue.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5fysv7Vk17
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According to the Scouts What was left were mercenary s and men who were just there for the money with no real desire for the sake of the Kingdom.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaScwhUmFJi
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Chapter 8815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtgM5KWPYoz
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So this is war.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡugjXXrmCru
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With the support of the Nobles and the peoples of the land we had an Army of about 10,000 strong. We knew we would be facing about 30,000 all better armed.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3cIzdxCKjf
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Lump surprised us all, he had a real gift of strategy. He told me we were missing and important item... Supply lines. Which were open to Dulci from the South. I assigned him a troop of fifty mounted men and named them Tom's Raiders. They traversed the miles to Dulcianas Southern border. They carried few supplies, which meant either make successful raids, live off the land or starve.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpZIC6zaJQw
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Tom's Raiders815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLHEto260cv
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Lump, Tom, Lead his Raiders south never coming in sight of any road except when it was necessary to cross one. They scouted the roads entering Dulciana from Langdom to the south and to Arrington to the East. Their fourth day they heard the squeaking of the axles of a heavily loaded wagon. As the wagon with five outriders entered the clearing which was ringed by the raiders. When they were completely inside the clearing, including the 4 outriders at the rear..815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9PJIFjNOLo
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The archers stepped out of the bushes with their Bows fully drawn. Lump spoke, “ Well gentlemen please lay down your weapons and step away from them. You two on the wagon get down. Please lay face down on the ground with arms and legs spread.” 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqRW8Qz0M4o
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Each were checked over and knives and night sticks removed from their person. Their hands and feet were bound. Lump placed two men in the wagon and started it onto Bramble Wood Border.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5Mq2Czz5lS
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“I am sure it will not take you long to free your self. I suggest you turn back to Langdom and not return. If you had put up a fight all of you would now be dead and we would have all regretted it. But none more than you.” 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS9kLnyS9aA
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Lump had given orders for the wagon to move as fast as it comfortably could toward the rest of the army. They were also prepared to ride like the dickens at the crossroads to Dulci. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvrp3mdJz3e
He was not aware that there was a squad on watch near the cross road Which escorted them the rest of the way.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIhUG2hZMzj
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Each day they would watch an incoming road and were averaging at least I shipment a week.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1vfymH9MOB
Dulciana sent out troops to try to protect the incoming supplies. The raiders ambushed them and wiped them out to a man.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWEos5Af5nF
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After a month the Dulciana Army began to move. We nipped at their heels and ran away. When they chased us we would ambush them. Their losses was about 10 to 1 of ours. Theirs was an Army while ours was a bunch of skirmishers or back alley fighters... We didn't fight fair.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMAnZBxkLTg
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John Mare brought in Mages from Drummond which was to the North west We wondered what he was promising them. The Elder had warded our raiders against magic. We attacked their rear with arrows then rode away. The Mages were frustrated when their spells returned toward them and they had to go on defense against their own spells. We found out later that John Mare had not told them anything about the Elder supporting us and he knew nothing about me, and that I too knew magic.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvXeCMc9vBG
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With out informing most of my officers or King Felies I left camp with four scouts and Mage Arture. Our plan was to sneak as close as we could to Baron Ronin's HQ tent. Baron Ronin had designated himself as General Ronin.His only thing that qualifed him to be a General was... he was the richest Noble in the Kingdom. Also the most arrogant and the least knowledgeable of how to run an army.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Xrv0rcjPz
His officers were getting very frustrated.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsfdH3zKWOl
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I cast my mind into the tent. As usual there was an argument going on. Captain Cross of the Palace guards and Major Nells of the Dulciana Army were already at their wits end. It was impossible to get through to General Ronin that you could not attack some one who was already gone. The General decided they would leave a squad of Calvary behind. Then when the Raiders slipped in behind they could attack and wipe them out.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbudPCzVs6b
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When we arrived back at the Camp, we made our own plans. Rather than attacking the rear we honed in on the right flank. We held back a reserve and when his trailing Calvary came around to attack our raiders they were met with our reserves and a hail of arrows. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzULJZYzWUd
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To embarrass them more Sneaker slipped in and stole the Dulciana Flag. We hoisted it up the spar where our Dragon flag flew. It was flown second to our Dragon.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR9XNBkcHib
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It would have been simple to take out General Ronin. But he was their worst enemy so we left him alone.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAv79AGhmJp
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King Felies was very incensed when he discovered my scouting foray. “What in the world did you mean by leading that scouting party? Kings don't lead raids they direct from the back ground.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwdNcWn8ER6
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I looked at him and smiled, “ As yet I am not a King, and I do not follow...I lead... by example.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQlTrPmLMqA
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I talked with Mira and Sneaker, Mira had an idea to scare the hell out of Dulciana troops. For three days one tent was a beehive of activity and only a certain few were allowed in. Late on the third day Mira walked out of the tent and nodded to me. Three of the smaller scouts who were experts in stealth and Sneaker all entered that tent... nothing else happened. Soon it was forgotten. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVZlWHx1eMq
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The camp of Baron Ronin began to stir....Then it turned into a male storm... Each was holding and looking at a small piece of parchment. Baron walked out of his tent also holding a piece of parchment , demanding to know who was responsible for the parchment.... 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdo0mXCdKLH
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He looked back down at his which was on a piece of rawhide and was around his neck. The parchment had a drawing of a dagger and the words you could be dead ...next time for real. He started screaming where are the guards... they were found with their throats cut and a piece of parchment held to their chest by a dagger.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJUhAO7FOHR
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For the next week there were desertions and some worn out soldiers that appeared to have not slept for awhile. Every night someone was killed in their sleep and Baron Ronin collected another piece of parchment.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOMIoF0UK2x
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Before the last part of the plan could be put into play Assassin Haver had his try. I began getting reports of a black clad figure fliting in and out of tents around camp... In some cases there was a body to go along with the report. Elder immediately said an assassin I added Haver.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOpyZRbRekm
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I begin to browse with my mind...near evening time I started to pick up traces of Haver. I turned in about 11 pm. At about 2 am I said, “ NOW ! “815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcfp28T3ubt
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Sneaker removed the cover from a lamp and light blazed into the unsuspecting eyes of Haver. Elder stepped into the tent and enwraped Haver in magical restraints. Haver tried to turn his head towards me and spit. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRSTAotPGTH
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I was expecting something of the sort and sent a magical force into his face which cause him to swallow what he tried to spit at me. He began to gasp and his face began to have a bluish tint and he crumpled. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡihL1Id03IE
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Elder checked him over and said he was dead. He and I using our magic and not touching the body carried the body to a cairn outside of camp which we had prepared earlier in the day. We placed the body on the cairn and set the pyre alight. First we warned everyone in camp to stay away and especially not to breathe the smoke.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWHXbh96aGZ
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Chapter Nine815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy8dNR0YD1b
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The two army's had been camped close for weeks each trying to be an irritant to the other. It was almost a war of attrition. But we had plans, and I assume they did too. We just had to be first.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9cZ11Hl5TG
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On the first day of Winters Chill... Baron Ronin awoke to silence, he dressed and threw back the tent flaps To find himself facing Sil Slender Shoot and Silas Bean. It was almost amazing when the soft spoken Bean unleashed his true vocalizations of his stately rich baritone voice.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3mkRBzw2r0
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“General Ronin You are surrounded by the forces of free Dulci and the army of Bramble Woods.. For your treasonous acts you are hereby stripped of all land and titles and exiled with only the clothes on your back. Or you will be put to death by hanging...I almost forgot if you accept option one...and ever decide to return. Option two is automatically enforced. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBU1RiMcL2M
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Ex Baron Ronin was escorted by Tom's raiders to the border of Langdom. He was pushed across the border begging for at least a horse... which he did not get.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW2OTRKnmQT
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With the addition of Baron Phellps army, our Volunteers and the Army of Bramble Wood we decided it was time to take the war to John Mare815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ2QklODW1Y
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King Filies called a meeting and after much discussion we came to a decision... We wished to make them worry as well as to pay. We decided to make it seem as if we were on parade. We put up a facade of joyous playing around. As if we had not a care in the world. The truth was we had thousands of mouths to feed.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9I2lVBnbU8
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In each camp the Elder assigned an apprentice who fed the troops by magic with platters of piping hot food. Our daily marches were short not starting till near 10 am and stopping nigh 4 pm.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL9QtJLEnDu
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On the third day John Mare's army took the bait. They moved up to attack as we would be making camp for the evening. What they didn't expect was before they could get the word to attack...Arrows came flying out of the trees all around them.. They lost over a hundred and sixty men that day and the surrender of fifty more815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZjUvB5OZ0w
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They thought they had laid the perfect ambush of an unwary group. When in essence they had been missing one detail. First a number of scouts would search out the next nights camp ground. Only one would return to act as guide.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqMDDP2fDmh
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Second as dusk began to fall a troop of about fifty men would peel off into the night. They would go to the next nights camping area and prepare an ambush. When John Mare's soldiers moved through they did not realized they were passing with in inches of our men. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhtGdIkK4B1
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There was a watch kept on their Officers and the attack came before he could give his orders to attack the camp. From our positions we were driving them toward the camp where they were met by... Number three, a well placed group of lancers.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡejcZHUdDZ0
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We lost three injured and two dead..... We heard their Army was disgruntled and saying things like we don't fight fair.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAQ5BBjMYgn
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The days turned into a week before the walls of Dulciana loomed into sight The buildings outside the walls were empty815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzcUla8wJa7
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I rode up to the Gate “John Mare come out and face me... You have been trying to kill me for over 17 years.... “ I heard a swishing noise and a soldier's body hit the ground in front of me. I glanced to the side . Admiran was notching another arrow... he smiled. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQtAFdgq7D9
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We had scouts in trees, not close enough to make an attack of any sort but they were not there for that purpose. They were there to observe and report. Each scout had a long glass and watched and re ported the gathering of John Mare's mercenary Army. Soon we would engage.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRYmj7crJWH
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Again we used subterfuge … we grew up in that town and all of us knew how to enter and leave without being seen. Again the Wizards Keep played an important part. In the basement of the Keep was a secret passageway that opened into the tack room of the barn in the Smithy. The Smithy and corral was just inside the wall of the town. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXVVkQCFDLD
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Once inside we could scatter throughout the town. Our first night, Lump, Bean and Sneaker went in checking the access. The second night each of them led a group of fifteen men each, our stealth fighters. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBiv8LKsMpy
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They hit the barracks and the guard shack near the North and south gate. They set fire to the barracks then attacked the soldiers as they tried to escape. They never knew what hit them nor how to respond. This was our manner of harassment for two weeks. John Mare's troops were tired but afraid to sleep. They were making mistakes, just what we were waiting for. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQZFXmQUWeL
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The next thing was to take out the guards on the west wall, open the gate and to fill the square with our troops all before John Mare's Army awakens.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGMKdoPp6FV
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John Mare De Louis awoken to men shouting and the clatter of weapons falling to the ground. He rolled out of bed and looked at his empty table and was instantly angry. That lazy Perdon was late with his Breakfast again. He pulled his bell chime cord angrily three times.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx89T1HM31F
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On the third pull his door opened...He was all set to rail against Perdon when he saw that the two men entering his chambers were armed and their Sashes were the colors of Green and Gold. Not his Red and Black he rushed to his weapons. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPv2Nrn8AYB
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They smiled and one of them said, “ By all means arm thy self Just as Crown Prince Rafter desires you.We are here to escort you to the battle yard. “815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp5h5EyqyNf
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John Mare grabbed a lance, his Sword and a brace of throwing knives. Thinking to himself, “This kid has never had any training with weapons...What chance does he have against me, a sword master.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYZbHwCSVKd
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** Truth be known John Mare was not near as good as he thought...I mean seriously if you are practicing with an unstable King just how hard are you going to try to win.**815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlADGA2PYj5
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Bean and Lump escorted John Mare to the Battle yard. He entered and found himself alone he looked above at the viewing area... it was full of Men, Women and Elves. The 1st face he recognized was the Chancellor the second the Cardinal.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEcjyoxaWgT
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Chapter Ten.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf1dFxOO8og
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The door began to open, John Mare drew his sword, he was ready.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Np2uZCJgE
He almost burst out laughing...The young man who entered, he assumed was his nephew, was only armed with a nightstick dangling from a rawhide cord.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkZNvHvx0ph
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“Good Morning Uncle... I was told I had to give you a chance, Thus I chose to face you with a nightstick. Since I don't wish to kill you, only beat you senseless I thought it only fitting.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx9kitLKcxZ
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John Mare smirked and said, “Quit crying and lets get on with it so I can eat breakfast.” All the time he had been talking he was moving towards Rafe. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCGWd1EtTXV
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As he drew near and was ready to swing his sword. Rafe's nightstick struck like a snake hitting the knuckles of the hand holding the sword which clattered to the ground. The audience roared. John Mare was stunned not seeming to understand what had happened.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡStGuIKiBCl
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Rafe backed off to allow him to pick up his sword. Never taking his eyes off Rafe, John Mare reached for his sword. Thinking Rafe a fool he again started forward. He had taken two steps when the nightstick flicked out again and caressed his elbow... His arm went numb and his sword again fell to the floor.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0dtfXLEiuh
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John Mare realized the sword was useless. He lowered the lance he had been holding in his left hand. Rafe was watching his every move. When John Mare made his thrust, at the last instant Rafe stepped to the side and flicked out the nightstick it met John Mare's chin with a cracking sound.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfbzWM8LPNf
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John Mare was so keyed up he didn't seem to realize his jaw was broken. He swept the lance to ward Rafe who stepped back and loosed his nightstick. John Mare thought he was prepared and whipped his head back. Again the fulcrum effect took over and the nightstick took the lower path. The only thing that saved his manhood is that he had turned his body. The nightstick struck his left thigh bruising it deeply.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4HhYIoPZji
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John Mare was finding it difficult to stand. He retained the lance but was now using it as a cane. Rafe flicked out the nightstick again in the direction of John Mare's left wrist. He retaliated by swinging the lance butt striking Rafe in the rib cage, cracking a couple of ribs. Rafe missed with his attack. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtt7f0oiUIE
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John Mare tried to follow up on his good fortune, pull his dagger and lunged forward. The night stick was already on the way headed for his manhood. John Mare's lunge put his head in the way and the night stick caught him square in the forehead and down he went.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLsdJMFuGl5
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Rafe waited but there was no movement from John Mare, Sir Slender Shoot and his medical man Fever entered the Yard,. Fever felt for a pulse and nodded, yes there was a pulse he was just unconscious. Slender Shoot called for three men. They trussed John Mare up like a Christmas Turkey.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0dE5G96hrw
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I looked up to the Audience and announced. “He will have a fair trial, “815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgfIr6vFe2g
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I Looked around as they drug John Mare to the dungeon. “Runners take a message to Langdom, Drummond and Chelsea And any other near by Country we have dealings with, speak to the Chancellor, asking them to send a representative. To sit at this trial they must also have authority to negotiate Import export Tariffs. Also Must Represent their Country. In my Coronation and wedding to take place, I turned to the Chancellor and motioned...”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFKPCajO4xB
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The Chancellor spoke quickly, “ Six Weeks for the trial and in two months for the festivities.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7TJeMeQtXo
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“Also I wish a runner be sent to Mountain Home for a Dwarf representative to be here as well.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTWVHkghL8s
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Time seemed to drag even with all that had to be done, The household staff had the Palace to clean up and prepare for all the guests. It had been decided that the Coronation and the wedding would be held in the Court Yard so that all who wished could attend...after all I did grow up on the streets.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdrr0sI6cMB
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I made a few appointments, Lonnie/Sneaker to head the Intelligence corp. Silas/Bean Secretary and Treasurer, Tom/Lump Head of the Palace Guards and Baron Phelps Commander General of the Army of Dulci.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAT3suTMuR2
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Six very active weeks went by and the Dwarfen Representative, Smash Stumpf Foot, had arrived. The trial began... “John Mare De Louis You are charged with High Treason and Regicide How do you plead.” 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoxijyq5gIg
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John Mare stared around the Court room, “ How dare you . You have no right to try me I am a King...!”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs9z9qgjCF4
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There was chuckles and noise from the spectators. King Felies shouted “S I L E N C E” As acting Judge and a King the silence was instanious. “We will take that as a not guilty plea.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvox2Wx07vD
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The first witness was Mama Ciel's younger sister. “My name is Myra”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ9HQITJVGy
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The Chancellor, acting as Prosecutor asked her what she had to offer at this trial.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZWUHaMHTcJ
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Myra's Story:815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtxHjYqsQKl
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My Mother had been a Ladies Maid and my older sister was as well. My Mother died in child birth and my sister Ciel raised me. Ciel was Ladies maid to Princess Rebecca she spoiled me. I was always hiding and eavesdropping. She would laugh at the things I told her, she thought I was making them up. One day when I was seven and Prince Rafter was a Babe I overheard John Mare and a man he called Haver Talking.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8eS6R1aY3q
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John Mare said “Haver I will give you 100 Gold to assassinate The King and his family.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Vc0Tr5Kxm
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“How do you want it done?”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTUe1KxZwQc
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“I don't care Make them pay but make sure you get the Medallion from around Duvalson's neck.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv7Id0HfiB9
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I didn't understand what assassinate meant and I got sidetracked and went to play with my friends. Later I asked my sister what assassinate meant. She asked me why and I told her. She told Princess Rebecca and I had to tell the story again. Princess asked me if they said when.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUT8c1DooCk
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I said, “They said something about a boar hunt.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAPmW1L93G5
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Princess Rebecca got all excited and said “That is today.” She had Ciel grab a few things and they left the Palace. I never saw them again. “Later that evening a messenger brought John Mare a note saying the King and his Son was dead.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡML4GTbELFP
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After that John Mare tried to get Crowned King But the Cardinal refused unless he had the Medallion proving he was the last of the family line.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk3uCakUYDs
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“John Mare was ruthless he had servants beaten for no reason and he raped the castle ladies including me.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyt1hHa3GsS
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John Mare Leaped up and yelled it was his right to rape the women he was the king.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpbsXRLcHaA
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The Chancellor answered,” It was not your right and you are not and never have been King.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD26gjYB7ed
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Many were called but none spoke for John Mare. It was really a farce as Trials goes. The verdict was known by everybody.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA41Qb57Nb5
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King Felis stood and told John Mare to rise. “John Mare De Louis you have been tried and convicted by a court of your Countrymen. You have been found guilty of High Treason, Regicide as well as later added Rape charge. I argued vehemently for the Death Penalty but soon to be King Rafter De Louis argued for a more lenient sentence of life in the mines. Smash Stumpf Foot Take him away he is all yours.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjCfG9sOyaG
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John Mare De louis screamed NO NO as Stumpf Foot placed him in chains.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO1R1Lag16k
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Chapter 11815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSiP4ivCHhx
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I was glad for that part to be over and it seems like everyone was in agreement. The moment John Mare was pulled through the door and it shut behind him. I stepped forward and...815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO7m1EAtYtJ
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“Ladies and Gentlemen The Wedding will take place in Two Weeks from today. One week Later the Coronation will take place.”815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsIBKDQFXcN
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The Wedding was a frantic rush between beating out Trade Concessions and agreements and trying on Wedding Clothes. Finally the day arrived. The wedding was held in the City Square. This was necessary since I had Promised no one would be turned away. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡurXrMwA0e7
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I had never seen such finery in this city and then Mira stepped out escorted by her Father, The Elder agreed to stand with me.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuxIrIe8V0F
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We turned and Knelt in front of the Cardinal. “We are gathered here together to join these two. Crown Prince Rafter De Louis and Princess Admira Felies....That is the last I remember till I heard the Cardinal said I now pronounce you Husband and Wife... You may kiss your Bride. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy3l8kkN5a1
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I hesitated, Mira said, “ Go ahead I won't Hit you... “815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLQjT6dkxyC
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I smiled and gathered her in my arms and we shared our first Kiss... then we disappeared to our Chamber which was kept personal.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4xMoClUkyG
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The reception lasted two full days and the Chancellor stated well there goes the treasury just to feed the crowd.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUYKTzWddK4
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The next few days we finished hammering out the trade agreements. And then it was time. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv5m4H8D5LE
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The Cardinal read the rites of the Coronation as Mira and I again knelt before him and then...” I crown you King Rafter De Louis King Of The land of Dulci. He took the Crown from The Elder and placed it upon my head. Then he completed the ritual for Mira. Admira Felies I crown you Queen of The land of Dulci thus Joining the Two lands of Dulci and Bramble Wood. May God Bless and Guide you both in your Rule. “815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaErt66Gvt8
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...And thus began our rule....815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnMuPYej1x5

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