Chapter 1

n a land far away, in a time long forgot. When time stood still, and valor meant something to those who chose to follow the code. The land was rich from a prosperous harvest. Winter had left it's mark, and spring was in the air. 'Twas a time for celebration amongst the villagers.

The plague had subsided and the leaves were returning to the trees. The fair king that ruled this fair land sat alone on his throne. Two years prior, his lovely queen had been a victim of the plague. He sat alone in his throne, gazing at the empty seat beside him, wishing she were back.

The towns people grieved for the king's loss, but were saddened by his reluctance to take a new queen. Of course they rallied women from far and wide, giving him the finest of the flock to choose from. They were brought to his audience, and one after another they were turned down. His grief was great by any standards. His servants and consoles attempted to cheer him up, but he needed to work this out for himself.

One evening, while he sat alone in his chambers, eating with the portrait of his departed queen, as normal, he looked to her and said "I hope you will understand. It has been such a long time." He came to his senses. That evening, donning a simple cobblers tunic, his favorite sword, and a wide brimmed hat. He slipped out of the castle unseen. The night engulfed him like a lover's touch, and he moved toward the village.