Looking through the window I let the Falcon go. It was near dusk now. The sky was filled with streaks of red and orange. I looked to the childeren who were watching me intently. I sighed, "Maybe we should leave the rest for another time?"

"No", Emily whined. "You have to tell us a little more, please?" What happened to the Falcon? or Robyn, or Dew? What about the king's friends?"

"Robyn seems to love the good king Falcon," Sarah put in. "But, somthing is holding her back. I feel very bad for them. I mean all the Falcon and Robyn want is to love each other."

"Yes", Ben agreed shaking his head. "There's a lot left to be said. I mean, everything's a mess. Everyone's so scattered."

"I'm sure we'll be okay going back home after just one more story," Sarah added. "There are so many questions that have been left unanswered."

I sighed. "Okay," I answered. "But just one more tale." They all cheered. "This tale will bring us to a place where everything is put in place for the Time of the Gathering." I waited until they all got settled and looked to Sarah. She had the quill ready to continue our tale. My gaze fell upon the warm fire. The falcon took me once more as I listened to the crackling fire.

Ah the throneroom, now it comes to me. Most of the time this is were we would go to be alone. I remember that night you had just come in from the Queendom of Beauy's Bend. The candle light bathed the room in a blanket of tender light. Shadows played and danced slowly all about. The fresh flowers I had put about, set the room with a beautiful, unforgettable, fragrance. Sweet soft music danced in from the ball room. I walked in and you were in tears. "What's wrong?" I asked, as I took you into my arms.

"I fear that my mother, the Queen of Beauty's Bend, may find out about us soon." You replied. "I think she has her suspisions."

I knelt and brushed the tears from your eyes. You gazed up, and our eyes locked. Smiling I whispered, "Let me talk to your mother. I can explain everything."

"You don't understand," you hesitantly whispered. "My mother has the most powerful Queendom in the world. It even dwarfs the most powerful Kingdoms. Without thought she could destroy Falcos. Woudl you would lose your kingdom for me?"

I looked you in the eyes and whispered. "I would give my life for you," I answered.

Your eyes lit up, then your eyebrows fell. You arose and flowed across the room. With your back against me you shuttered, "Please, don't say things like that."

Walking over to you I calmly asked, "Why not? It is the truth."

"I know," you explained in that melodic voice. "But I want no one to lose anything because of me."

Taking your hand I replied, "I fear that it's too late for me. Your magnificent beauty has subdued me. I am captivated by you. I know I've lost my heart to you, my love"

Your smile set my soul afire. You peered out across the room. Finally your gaze came upon me. I fell to dust at your sight. I could see that certain sparkle in your eyes. You buried your head in my chest and whispered, "Just hold me. Hold me and never let go."

I held you and felt at peace, as we slowly started to waltz.

That time bore into my memory. I remember the days that you were not there in Falcos. I would walk about like a lost puppy. I could never get you off of my mind... But no more of that now. The pain hurts too bad.

Let me see where was I in the story... Oh yes...

After a day of journeying, my mind was maggin me about leaving my best friends to search for me. I decided to take a rest. I lay down underneath a tree in the forest that I had entered just an hour past. Here I listened to the sounds of the animals. I heard the birds singing and the flutterby's chanting. I saw imps, and water sprites, dancing all about. They were taking care of the trees, and the flowers. It was so beautiful. Spring was in the air. I loved the beauty there and I took in a deep breath. After a brief nap I arose and started to walk. I didn't notice that the animals had quit singing or making sounds. I was thirsty and decided to look for some drinkable water. I found a spring nearby, knelt down, and drank. As I was drinking, I started to smell a very foul odor. I jumped up quickly and turned around. I knew this smell, it was a Orcon. An Orcon is like an Ogre but it has two heads and four arms, and are twice as big. They can be known to move unnaturally fast. Some even have magical abilities, but this is rare.

The Orcon was dressed in, what looked to me, as grungy rags, and he had an enlarged red roosters cron on his head. Red rooster crowns where rumored amoung the Orcon as being magical. If you wore it's crown, then you could posess it's magic. He smelled very badly, the stench of death was around him. Blood dripped from his huge ax. I knew I was in danger, for this Orcon had been hunting. It seemed like I was his next meal.

The Orcon swung his ax. I barely jumped out of its way. The ax dug deep into the ground. He swung again. I ducked and he hit a tree. Much to my luck, his ax had gotten lodged in the tree. Seeing this opening, I lepted for the Orcon. He turned, with supernatural speed, catching me in midair. He then proceeded to slam me to the ground. I lay there for a few minutes, playing dead. I needed to catch my breath. He turned to his ax and tried to dislodge it. He had nearly sliced through the huge oak in one shot. I forced myself to get up and run. I tripped over a root, then raised myself with my arms. I saw some bushes and hid in them. I waited awhile, breathing in heavily. Then, when I thought it was safe, I sneaked over to a nearby tree and hid behind it.

I could hear the Orcon in the distance, he had gotten his ax free. He was angry and coming back in my direction. Orcons were not as dumb as ogres. He said nothing but I could hear his footsteps. They were like small quakes. Each step shook leaves off of the trees about me. My heart started pounding. Sweat was pouring down my face. I was scared. My mind was racing. Then a thought of you flashed into my mind. That brought out a courage in me I never knew that I had. I waited for the Orcon. He came closer and closer, stopping now and then for a breath of air. He was smelling for me. I could smell him real close to me. I thought about looking around the tree to see if I could see him. I knew that he was only three feet away from the tree. I could feel it. I mustered up all of the courage that I could. Then I lept out in front of the Orc. He was surprised as was I. I reacted before he could and grabbed his ax out of his hands. He merely jumped back and pulled out a spear from his back pouch. He held it in front of his body in a threatening manner. Suddenly spikes on his armor began to come out. He was ready for battle. His orange tathered hair now hung about his face.

"Please let me be. I have no quarrel with you." I huffed at the Orcon.

The Orcon smiled with his yellow teeth and huffed with his harsh breath. Then he lunged at me almost striking me. I tried to swing at him with the ax but missed terribly. I was trained in using a sword, not an ax. I tried to run, but, he caught me in the shoulder with his spear. The spear didn't penetrate my armor, but, I felt the sting of the spear. He spat in my face. My head armor blocked the spit, but I was angry now. I swung the ax with all of my might. The ax sliced the Orcons arm completely off. The Orcon fell to the ground. I looked at the Orcon, and the Orcon merely jumped up and attacked again. I swung again and severed the Orcons ear off. I swung again, this time to kill, but the Orcon was turned to stone. When my ax hit, the stone the ax flew in the opposite direction. I was thrown to the ground with such force that I blacked out.

When I came to, I was shocked. Up above me floated a vision of loveliness. She had blondeish-brownish, slightly wavy hair that hung mid shoulder. Her eyes were green, almost emerald. Her light complicated skin seemed to glow with her radiance. She was dressed in a cloak of a soft red streaked with pink, fully trimmed with lace. She smiled and raised her hand as she spoke. "I am the Sorceress of the Bend. I saw you fighting that Orcon," she grinned. "My apologises for the stone spell. I had no idea you were about to strike. I turned the Orcon to stone. He would not have died. I can tell that you are a warrior with much boldness. Who are you?" She asked suddenly stern.

"I am but a knight in search of adventure. You may call me Aftermath." I replied. I was stunned.

The Sorceress took in my features for awhile. I began to worry for a bit. I suddenly realized that I was indeed in Beauty's Bend, the place where your mother lived. She was Queen here, with much power. And she that was speaking to me was the famed Sorceress of the Bend, that you had told me about. She was a legend in many lands. You had also told me of the beauty of the gardens there at Beauty's Bend. You were not lying about its grace and charm. There were flowers of all sorts there. They grew in the labyrinth of trees and all over on the ground. It was as if I were in paradise. Suddenly, I could tell that the Sorceress was trying to see who I was. I now looked at her through my hood. "Do I know you?" she asked.

"No my lady," I answered, "I am just a knight passing through."

"From what kingdom?" She asked inquisitively.

Not wanting to trap myself I answered, "I am without a kingdom."

"Strange," she replied as she looked at me perplexed, "I feel that I know you. At any rate, my queen is in need of a warriors help, kind Sir. She will tell you of the vile things that have been plaguing our Queendom as of late. Please come with me Sir."

"Come with you? Where to my lady?" I asked perplexed, "We seem to be in some sort of labyrinth made out of the gardens. We can not possibly escape this labyrinth!"

"Nonsense," the Sorceress laughed, "She is but a sprinkle away. Take my hand and you will see my Queen." The Sorceress stretched out her hand. I hesitated for a moment, then took her hand in mine. She raised her hand that was free and made a figure eight in the air. After she had made two figure eight's magic, glittery, sprinkles of colors of all sorts began to fill the air and float all around us. Suddenly the sprinkles engulfed us. The sprinkles floated through us and all about. The sprinkles tickled. Then the tickling stopped.

I looked around and suddenly realized that I was standing in the center of a throne room. The Sorceress of the Bend had teleported us into the throne room of the Queendom of Beauty's Bend! I adjusted my cloak and felt my head armor. I looked forward and saw the Sorceress of the Bend standing beside a vision of loveliness, your mother, the famed and holy, Queen of the Bend. She had the most beautiful flowing blonde hair. It flowed beyond her hips. She had bluish-grayish eyes, so hauntingly radiant. I was in awe of her sitting atop her throne. She looked like a true goddess.

"My dear Queen," the Sorceress of the Bend spoke, as she shattered the silence that reined in the room. "This is a warrior who wishes to aid, and serve you. His name is Aftermath." Her gaze fell to me and I jumped. "Aftermath this is my Queen, the Queen of the Bend, whom I serve loyally."

I was in awe at the sight of your mother. At that moment I knew were you had gotten your beauty from, Robyn, her. I stood mesmerized by the Queen. She was dressed in a lovely flowing gown of pink silk, and lace. Upon her head sat a crown made of diamond, studded with rubies and sapphires. They seemed on fire as the light in the room bounced to and fro, off of the crown. The Queen looked upon me and spoke with an elegant, angelic voice. "Come forward warrior Aftermath." Her smile vaporised me.

I approached the Queen and knelt before her.

"I, the Queen of the Bend, sit here on my throne grieving," she said to me in a sad, but elegant voice. She sat back on her throne. "I grieve, you see, because this Queendom used to be heavily populated. That has changed as of late. A terrible Red dragon has been coming, and slaying my people. I sent my many knights to slay him but, they never returned. That accursed dragon has destroyed the awesome harmony that once reined over this Queendom. I am in need of a champion to slay the Red dragon. I ask of you great warrior, will you slay this evil, vile, dragon for me? This deed will bring, once again, to my Queendom the peace that we so richly deserve."

I looked up at the Queen and uttered, "My dear, gracious, Queen you are a vision of great grace, beauty, and charm. It is true that I am a warrior. I do wish to slay the dragon for you," just then my gaze fell upon the ground, "But, alas my heart is not well. It aches and cries out in desperation for the one thing it can not have. I can not slay the dragon for you see, a warrior is as great as his heart is, and my heart right now is very weak." I noticed were I was standing now. I was at the edge of a huge symbol that was built itno the floor. A white rose on a pink background spread itself across the floor.

The Sorceress of the Bend looked down upon me and said in a soft, comforting voice, "you are the first to come forward to help. The Queen's daughter is missing. She had gone to a nearby kingdom called Falcos, according to our people. There was a terrible battle there and she has never returned. We can not investigate any further, for our knights fight the Red dragon and are scattered about the country side. I can not challenge the Red dragon directly, for the Queen is my charge. Aftermath, this I vow, find and slay the vile Red dragon, and I will show you how to find the one you seek. Our knights must be free to go and search for Robyn. I know that she's no longer in Falcos.

"I know your heart cries out for her, whoever it may be. In my heart I feel your sorrow. Use your love for her to strengthen your heart of stone."

I looked into the green eyes of the Sorceress of the Bend, and then took in her features. Then my gaze fell over to the Queen of the Bend. I looked into her eyes and saw a mother aching for her daughter. She didn't have the time to give her full attention to finding her daughter with this Red dragon taking up her time. I marveled at her youth, and wondered how she could be your mother when she didn't even look more than fifteen seasons old. At any rate I saw her pain and decided to slay the Red dragon. If I died at least I could escape my pain. I stood up, bowed, and spoke, "I graciously accept your quest. I will slay the Red dragon and lay his head at your feet by dawn break, this I vow."

I turned at once and left the throne room. The crowd opened up as I headed for the drawbridge. I was led, by a force that I couldn't, and to this day, still can not explain, to a deep, damp, dark cave, three hours journey away.

I entered the cave and continued into it. The dampness was great and I could feel a thousand eyes watching me. Flames licked at me from all directions. I was not afraid and continued on. The flames seemed to dance around me echoing and crackling throughout the cavern. I finally emerged from the cave and immediately I was in the center of twelve trees. There was nothing but silence. That was shattered by the sound of a million bees. I glanced up into the sky and a huge fire ball descended upon me. I jumped out of the way. The fireball hit in the middle of the trees and fire exploded everywhere. That was when I noticed that I was there to slay a dragon and I hadn't a weapon. One of the twelve trees opened up and handed me a sword made of destiny wood. I grasped the sword in my hands. I could feel eyes watching me. I was ready. The air was still and I could feel that something big was going to happen. The moment was electifying. I feared death.

"ARE YOU NOT OF THE DARK!!?" a voice thundered, causing me to fall from fright.

"Who is there?" I shouted out trying to be brave, grasping my wooden sword. I turned and turned again, my cloak floating in the wind.

"HEH! HEH! HEH!," the voice quaked," SO THE PROPHECIES ARE TRUE! MY MASTER WAS RIGHT. YOU ARE THE ONE! YOU WEAR THE CREST OF THE FALCON ABOUT YOUR NECK!

I looked down at the necklace around my neck. It was a purple heart with a golden falcon in the center. The crest had been handed down for generation after generation. I was the one hundred and forty forth generation of kings to have ruled Falcos. I was the very first in my lineage to actually wear it. My fathers before me merely casted it aside as a bauble. I liked it so I wore it.

"I am of the Light," I answered as I kept turning around sword drawn. "What prophecies?" I yelled nervously, "Who is your master?... Answer me!!!!"

"My master," the voice replied vilely, "is HE WHO is the DARKNESS!!!! He wants you to suffer and suffer! Then when you are broken you will die by the Darkness' hands." The Red dragon arose into the air, flapping it's wings with hurricane force. His eyes burned red and then his mouth exploded, like a huge waterfall, with fire. It engulfed me. The fire turned into the likeness of a hand and was squeezing the life out of me. Then it slammed me down to the ground. I got up feeling every bone in me wanting to explode.

The dragon swooped down upon me and I hesitated until the last moment. At last I darted toward the dragon sword in hand. The wooden sword cut the dragon on top of its head were its horns and scales protruded outward. The dragons claws on its wings scraped my back clear through my armor. The electrifying sensation rocked my body as I flew through the air. Finally I hit the ground. The dragon came around again and this time he blew fire. I jumped through the flames and struck him once more. This time my sword cut the dragon from its eye to its neck. I saw its scales close that time, they looked like stones that had been sharpened to a razors edges. I also got a good look at its claws too. They were ebony black, and looked as if they could slash through me easily. I feared how they would feel. The dragons claws were clenched in anger as he ascended into the sky. The dragon dove down and let another fireball come out of its mouth. This time the fireball hit one of the twelve trees. It shown forth with a White Light. I flew on impact and the other eleven trees almost broke under the stress. The tree the dragon hit was the tree that had given me the sword.

The dragon cringed in fear as the flames parted and the tree still stood, but it was glowing white. I could hardly stand in the brilliance of the Light. The tree spoke "Beware the forces of Darkness for they are everywhere. The Darkness is everywhere. The Time of the Gathering is at hand. You have much to do yet, Falcon. Bender of Fate. Leader of the Childeren. The never Dying Spark. They are coming like the hurricane to land. Chaos. The liver whithers. The Colors swirl, ready to do battle. The Red dragon will fall in a minute, I have frozen it in time. When the dragon lands, drive your sword into the dragons heart, it will turn to stone just as your heart is. I know of your pain. I have only one piece of advice to give you on your quest, always remember this, when things look their darkest, let loose the power in your heart. It is there, but you'll have to learn how to unleash it. The Darkness fears you. Woe! to the universe when you unleash the power, for all shall bend knee to you... even the gods. Always follow your heart. Never cast shadows in your heart, for you block out the Light. And though your journey may seem over it is not. Never give up hope or belief in the Light, for they are powerful allies. The circle spins, there is no escape. the end is the begining, the begining the end. Each quest will take you closer to the end, which is also the begining. The Loght and the Dark shal seduce one another. all shall be ripped asunder, when the moons explode in the land of Argranoth. Prophicies weep blood, the childeren pray. Hold to the Light dear schilderen, our hope is woth you. I will release the dragon now."

The dragon swooped down. I did as I was told. I sunk the wooden sword into the dragons heart. Immediately it turned to stone and fell upside down. I took the sword out from its heart and sliced off the dragons head. The sword disappeared. I looked up at the twelve trees... they were gone. The cave... it was nowhere in sight. The dragon's body, vanished. I didn't understand what had just happened, all I knew was that I had the dragons head in my hand, and a promise to keep, dawn break was fast approaching. My head was spinning with Colors, and I saw a huge white falcon take to flight. I feared it as it ripped me to shreads. All that theur was, shattered about me into a trillion shards. My eyes were wrenched open as I sat up drenched in sweat, breathing heavily. I looked as though I had been out in the worst of storms for a week. The dragons head in my hand, I made to run off. I could still smell the Colors in the air. I could almost feel them in everything about me.

Along my way back I started thinking about what the dragon had said about the prophecies that he had spoke of. He Who is the Darkness had said the same things to me when he had taken you away from me. And that tree that gave me the sword, it told me to believe. I was confused. I believed what the tree had said, about believing being a powerful ally, because of my time with Dew. I wished I could see her again, because, then she could make me laugh and I wouldn't be so lonely.

Everything seemed to blur about me, and suddenly, I was walking into the throne room of the Queen of the Bend. The Sorceress was standing beside her. I took the Red dragons head and placed it at her feet. The Queen of the Bend looked at the dragons head in astonishment, then she looked up at me.

"I know not who you are hooded one," She said to me, "I know not what shadows lie in your heart, but you have saved my Queendom, and I am in your debt."

"No," I replied, "'twas an honor for me to slay this dragon for one as beautiful as you."

"You honor us with your presence here," said the Sorceress of the Bend. "Now that you have slayed the dragon, I will comply with my part of the bargain. I will tell you how to find your love..."

Just then He Who is the Darkness entered into the throne room through the windows, and the ceiling and turned up into the center of the room. He was in the form of a black ooze then he appeared in his normal form, as a cloaked nothingness. I was the only one who noticed he glanced beyond the Queens throne, then he pointed towards me and wretched, "You are dead. You have slain my pet now you will die." He raised his hands together and there was a horrible stench of death in the room. Blue mini bolts of lightning slinked up through his arms and then through to his hands. He opened his hands and a huge ball of evil arcane magic came towards me. I could feel it's ancientness. I began to get very angry because I knew Darkness was going to hurt me badly, and I could not inflict any pain on him. I felt his power as the icy cold grip of death came closer to me. The magic came even closer. Suddenly the Darkness grinned and the magic came crashing towards me. Before the magic hit me there was a red dome all around me. Darkness' magic didn't even touch me. The red dome disappeared and I looked toward the Sorceress; she had shielded me from the Darkness' magic.

He Who is the Darkness looked at the Sorceress of the Bend with surprise, and screamed "You!!! The Sorceress of the Bend, challenge the full might of He Who is the Darkness!!! You dare insight my wrath!!? Then prepare to embark on a journey...a journey to DEATH!!!"

"Indeed you are powerful," The Sorceress of the Bend replied as she made the Queen disappear, "But it is not I who challenge you, but you who challenge me, by being here in the Bend. I have sworn to my Queen in blood, that I will protect the Bend even if my life be forfeit."

"Very well," Darkness giggled insanely," I will take your life and then your soul. Yes, indeed I will have get joy in torturing your soul."

"You will not have my soul," the Sorceress of the Bend replied in anger, "You can not defeat me because you are of the Dark and I am of the Light. Everyone knows that the Light always overpowers the Dark."

The Darkness reached out for the Sorceress and the magic did fly. The Sorceress started to glow. The white and the purple magic that Darkness had hurled at her was gone. She placed her hands together and white magic went and struck the Darkness down. The room shook as the Darkness hit the ground.

She made strange gestures with her hands and then seemed to flow, "prepare for the Shimmering!"

Darkness cringed in fear. "NO!!," the Darkness groaned, "Not the Shimmering, I thought it long dead!! It must not end now, not like this. Not before I have the full power. It must be written that the Darkness overshadowed the Light!" Darkness turned into the ooze again and then uttered, "You will never be able to rid this world of the Darkness. I will return with a vengeance." In a flash Darkness was gone.

I looked on at the Sorceress in awe of her might. She snapped her fingers and the Queen of the Bend returned to her throne. I sat down from exhaust. I could not believe what just happened. I thought of you for an instant, and the memory faded.

"What were you fixing to do to the Darkness?" I asked. "Why did he bubble with fear?"

The Sorceress grined patting a ouch that was tucked under her belt. "A very bold bluff, child."

There was a little feast put on in honor of my slaying the Red dragon, the Darkness' small defeat, and the freeing of the Queendom.

Two rich, young merchant men's sons came over to where I was sitting. They asked if they could join me and I said yes.

"I am Sir Reed," said the taller one. He had short curly black hair and light brown skin. I enjoyed the way that he laughed. It brought joy to my heart. He was dressed in studded leather armor, and very nice clothes. He looked like a noble to me.

"And I am Sir Chaplain," the other one introduced himself. "He was a little shorter than the other. He had short blonde hair, and was very humorous. He liked to laugh and make jokes. He even made fun of the food that we were eating. A solver of riddles was he.

"I hope you don't mind us intruding," said Sir Reed.

"Nonsense," said I, "you two will always be welcome at my table."

"Why thank you," Sir Chaplain replied, "They sat down, both were finely dressed. Sir Chaplain looked up at me and said, "Say, Sir Reed and I were talking and we have an offer for you. We would like you to stay in the Queendom of Beauty's Bend and defend us. The Queendom needs warriors as great as you. Here you would never be without clothes or food, we will see that you are taken care of."

"I appreciate the offer my friends," I answered, "But my way lies to the south. I seek one. Perhaps after I find my love I will return here."

"Then let us aid you in finding her," said Sir Reed. "Together Sir Chaplain and I have great wealth and power. Just say the word and you'll have whatever you need at your disposal.

"Thank you again my friends," I answered, "But my ways lead me alone. Someday I will repay the kindness you have shown me here today. You honor me greatly with your company kind Sirs. Will you allow me the honor of calling you friends?"

They both smiled and shook their heads in agreement.

"If you'll excuse me now my friends, but, my time has come to leave this place of beauty." I got up. They arose too. "Strange", I said. "I know that we'll meet again."

"Then let us hope it is soon," Sir Reed saild as he offered me his hand. I took it and shook it and left. I entered out into the gardens for one last look. The Sorceress and the Queen came out and greeted me.

"What is wrong?" the Queen of the Bend asked me. "Everyone is dancing and is merry and you choose to be alone? I do not understand you."

"Sometimes the best times I have are when I am alone," I replied. Besides, there is a heaviness upon my heart. It has lived there ever since I lost her."

"I know you feel bad about losing your love. I can read it in your face," the Sorceress of the Bend said to me. "Maybe you would be more happier in the Bend? Here you would not be alone. You are a hero here. The people here all love you. It is once again peaceful here."

I looked down with a heaviness on my heart. Then I looked up and opened my heart to them and said...

"I have traveled so very far in my sorrow,
And wonder if there'll be another tomorrow
I am in search of my lovely glorious Queen,
For she has beauty like none I have ever seen.

My lonely dark heart cries out to her in a song,
It is only for her that my cold heart does long.
I'm weak, I love her greatly in so many ways,
I'll never forget her for the rest of my days,
The times we were together the magic did play.

So if you can tell me how can I get her back?
Truly it is only her that my heart does lack.
I must find her for I fear the Reaper comes soon,
To plunge me head first into Darkness dark boon."

They were both moved to tears at my words. Only the Sorceress could speak. "Never give up on your love, for it truly is great. Have faith in the Light. It shall guide, and protect you, but only if you have faith in it. Your heart of stone can not be healed by any magic. Now, you find your love. Only with her love can the spell be broken. You have two powerful allies with you. One is your belief. Belief is powerful. Belief is power. Heed my warning, be careful what you believe in. Many want power and to get it, will try to steal your belief from you, so they might abuse it. I have seen even the most powerful intellect fall into throws of the Dark. Many love to corrupt the young. The younger the better. For you see, the younger the believer, the more pure the belief. The more pure the belief, the greater the power. Children believe most purely, that is why they are the most powerful people on the planet. Grownups who have been polluted by this world think that they have to protect the young, and make them believe as they do. This is only what the Darkness wants. You see, children already know what life is all about. Life at its purest. It is not until they grow up and are continuously polluted by this world, that their belief begins to lose it's luster. Many strip the innocents from children everyday in an effort to 'make them grow up'. My if adults were only not so blind, as to see what they are doing to the children. The children grow up and then repeat the cycle. This is among the Darkness' great plans that has not failed. He causes hardships as to wear down their spirits in a bid to take belief away from the Light. Many blame the Light and turn from it. They turn to what has turned them away from salvation. This is one of the Darkness' greatest lies. It is very effective. The road of righteousness is paved with many perils. It is very hard, and easy are the ways to He Who is the Darkness. Be careful that he doesn't trick you into running straight forth into his arms. I know that you have been wronged, and that you might have lived a terrible life, but please, never turn away from the Light. I have heard many wise men and women say that if you have enough faith and belief, a being can accomplish any feat that he or she desires. Your other ally is your love for her. Use it to carry on. I know in my heart that you are not going to stay in the Bend, your heart leads you south. May the Light speed you on your way."

And so I rose not meaning to be bold,
Feeling the chamber of my heart so cold,
Not knowing truly were my quest would end,
From there I departed from Beauty's Bend.

So from there I walked all night, so cold and alone,
A King without a Queen, a Knight without a home.
I tried to forget the sorrow of my dark heart,
As my sanity was slipping, falling apart.

My journey led me into a shadowy town. I could feel that it was enchanted. The town had a river flowing straight through the middle of it. On the side that I was on it was Light. On the other side of the river there was nothing but Dark. I came and knelt at the river and drank. I wiped off my mouth and took in the surroundings. All that was there was just tiny hut like buildings. The wind blew dust up everywhere. This town was abandoned. The town had an air of loneliness much like my own. There was no bridge so that I might cross the river, to the dark side, so I decided that I would turn and go another way.

I stood up to leave and I caught a glimpse of you. My mind disbelieved what it saw, made me I blink, hoping, that when I opened them again, you would still be there. If you were there, I knew that I would not be dreaming. I opened my eyes and there you were on the other side of the river. It had been awhile since I last saw you, so I took in your features and admired your beauty. As soon as my eyes saw you the birds started to chirp and sing. Flowers grew in abundance in the town. The flowers were of all colors, and aromas. Little furry animals came out of hiding and were playing in the streets. As always you brought life were ever you went.

I was dumbfounded. I could not even move. I wanted to speak to you but I couldn't find the words. All I could do was stare. The sun shown brightly on my head armor as I lifted the hood of my cloak back. I was captivated by you and my heart was in tears. I could feel the pain deep within my soul. I was on fire with sorrow. Still I could find no words. I knew by now I was feeling that I would always love you for the rest of my life and even after death.

I wanted to cross this river and hold you, speak to you, love you. Something held me back. I couldn't explain it at all. It was as though the Light was holding me back. I wanted to cross over into the Darkness and be with you. I cared not were I was, so long as I was with you. You looked over at me and I could tell that you knew how much I loved you. You wanted to cross that river too, I could sense it. My heart cried out for you, but you did not hear it. I wanted to say that I was sorry for all that had happened. I wanted to talk to you about the good times that we had had. I wanted to say... I love you... but I couldn't... all I could do was stand there. I had a chance to get you back but I let it sip by.

Seeing you again brought shivers through out my entire body. And yet there was nothing I could do but just stand there and watch you. I felt something touch my arm. I looked down to see that it was Dew, the little girl from the village. She placed a note into my hand and then headed off in the direction of the Bend. I looked back at you and forgot that moment. I was once again captivated by you.

Nothing was spoken between us. But our feelings for one another spoke volumes over that river that day. My eyes wandered over your entire being, hungrily taking in all of your features. Oh how I wanted to take you to the highest mountain top, and shout out my total love for you. I do not think in all time that there has ever been a love as great as ours. I wanted to hold you in my arms so tight. Shower you with kisses and never let go of the moment. Your beauty was enchanting my heart to the fullest once more. You charm, grace and beauty touched me to the core. Just when I was about to speak. You arose and walked away.

I thought at that moment that if I never loved another for the rest of my days. I would be satisfied by only having have had loved you. Robyn, my love, for you will always be strong and true. So long as there exists your beauty, it will always sing out its sweet, sweet song.

I looked down into the river looking at my reflection and at what I had become. I didn't want to look up again; I didn't want to know that I had lost you again.

I arose and turned around. I sighed deeply and noticed the letter that Dew had placed in my hand. I looked around for her quickly, but she was not there. I wonder even till now, had she really been there at all? I read the letter not daring to look back. It said but this...

My Dear, Dear, Beloved, King Aftermath,
Beware of Darkness' powerful wrath!

I looked up into the sky to scream in despair. But all I saw was the Darkness. It was all around me. I feared Darkness' powerful might. I could feel him grasp me as he lifted me into the air. Darkness had tricked me into letting my guard down. Now I was his and I could do nothing about it. I could hear my cries echoing across the countryside. Then they slowly faded away, and I, lost consciousness. Had this been a dream? A trick of the Darkness?

I awoke in a nothingness. I arose and began to walk. I could see nothing, but still I walked. I could feel a coldness like none I had felt before. As I walked the stench of death became more, and more apparent. I had thought that Darkness wanted no more of me but I could see now that the hell he had put me through was only just beginning. I can't really explain what Darkness is or what he looks like because I saw him, but I didn't see him. All I know is that at that moment I was too angry to be scared. I knew that he was the cause of my problems, and I was going to slay him, even if it meant my death.

I began thinking about why he was even bothering us. I was no threat to him. He was very powerful. My kingdom, the kingdom of Falcos, wasn't even the most powerful kingdom in our country let alone the world. Why would he take you away? Why was he doing all of this to me, to us? He knew how much you meant to me and he ripped us apart. He knew that by taking you away from me and allowing me to live, would the most powerful torture that I could experience. Why was he attacking me? Did he want my sanity?

Then I thought about how you had given up on us so fast. Didn't you know how much you meant to me? You once again consumed my mind. Why could I not stop thinking of you? It was as if you were the breath that kept me alive. I loved you greatly and I still do. I started doubting your love for me. I mean you were the best thing that ever happened to me. How could one, as beautiful as you, love one as cold and dark as I. Before you I would look at couples and wonder what this love was. Now I knew full well what it was, I just couldn't understand it.

All I knew was that if I had another chance to love another I would not take it. There can be only one for my heart, and that is you. You were special, loving, kind, quiet. You were not wild. You were peace. That is why I loved you. The way you would look at me, the way you would laugh at my dumb jokes. You knew when I was angry, you knew when I was sad. I was an open book to you. You read me well. Even when I had doubts about being king, you were there to give me advice. No matter if you were sick, I always came first. You had a generosity around you that I loved. You also saw life as a precious thing to love, nurture, and cherish. You were kind to all and loved children. I could write down all of the things that I loved about you, at that moment, but that would take volumes of books and fill up a library. I only have a short time left, so I will proceed on with this book.

If I had you back I'd give you the moon and stars. I could live again. I'd give anything if I could see you again. To behold your beauty, and experience your essence, would be heaven. To be with you would be the greatest thing of all. For you see you are my world. You are my life. You are my heart. You are my soul. You are my love.

I wished you could see inside my heart. Then you would see just how greatly I loved you. I never meant to put you in harms way. I never meant to hurt you. I knew that I was no one great. I knew that I was no one special. But, all I wanted was for you and I to be together. That is all I wanted. I tried to love you with all of my heart and show you my true love, but alas I stood there in this nothingness, alone. When we were together, it was an honor for me, to have everyone know, that you loved me, and that I loved you.

You and I together, forever,
Would be, for me, nothing but pleasure.
I wish to hold you in my arms so tight,
You know that I love you with all of my might.
My love with another could I share?
No, for with you no one can compare.
'Twas an honor to know your love so true,
Everyday with you my true love grew.
If I had you in my arms tonight,
I'd never let go, I'd hold you tight.
If you are down and don't know what to do,
Just call on me and I'll be there for you.

I could feel your love there among the nothingness. But it was cut short. I knew at once that I had to face the Darkness. I could feel him approaching.

I could see nothing only blackness. The strong aroma of death hung all about. Hands started grabbing at me from the ground. I started running very fast, my heart was pumping so hard that with each thrust, I thought it would hammer through my chest. I knew that I was in Darkness' realm. There was an evil so great I could feel it breathing on me. I could hear screams way off in the distance. Cries coming louder and louder. I stopped and looked up. There was Darkness. He picked me up in his clutches and then thrusted me down to the ground.

After I awoke I felt around and there was an altar. It was made of bones and skin. I jumped back in horror. I was so afraid and alone. I felt that an attack would come from any direction. I knew that I was being watched. I could hear a breathing in the distance and with each passing minute it would come closer, then it would go away always to return again. My muscles were very tense, and, I felt were about to rip. Something was there watching me, playing with me. I thought of you, but, fear washed the thought of you away. I realized that Darkness was apart of me, moving me, manipulating me.

All of a sudden a very fowl stench moved in. I almost vomited. Darkness was there before me. His eyes glowed red as he giggled. I summoned up all of my courage and decided to speak.

"I am but a lone Dark Knight,
I now fight for what is right.
I'll fight you below or above,
I'd die for the one I love."
I'm now a Warrior of Light,
I've no fear, for her I'll fight."

And Darkness laughed and replied,

"Enlighten me, young Kingling, will you please?
And maybe I will let you die with ease.
I can kill you below, or here above
Why would you cast away your life for love?

I know not who you are you puny man,
What is this thing, love, why is it so grand?
That a puny warrior would challenge me?
You are going to die can you not see?"

I replied,

"I love her so very much,
Love isn't merely a touch.
Love's unlike a magic wand,
But 'tis a magical bond.

You know not how much she means to me,
She's all in this world that I am to be.
I care not of your power or of your might,
For her I would die, for her I would fight.

I care not if you have won,
I'd fight you or anyone.
You see I've nothing to gain,
I'd die again and again.

So you are here kill me if you may,
If you don't then ha! you will I slay!"

And Darkness simply replied,

"You're a pathetic fool to challenge me,
If you wish to die then let it be!"

Darkness struck me down about five times. Each blow was harder than the last, but I still kept getting up. This angered him more. I was totally defenseless. I tried to run but he would just strike me down again. I wasn't even sure were I was. He was everywhere. Everywhere I would turn, there he would be. There was no escape. I faced death, and he was my reaper. Darkness thrusted me up against the wall. There I hit my head on the hilt of a sword. I reached up and grabbed it. I was ready to fight Darkness. I tightened my grip on the sword and glared at Darkness. My intent was to kill. I ran at him. Everything seemed as if it were happening very slowly. I jumped in the air like I've never jumped before. My mouth opened as I drove down with the sword. I screamed as I descended. Darkness was merely laughing. The sword touched him and shattered, sending shards of metal everywhere. Hundreds of shard pierced my body sending pain tearing through my soul. My agonizing scream was drowned out by my falling through Darkness. He absorbed me. Inside Darkness was like being inside tar suffocating through every poor in your body. I could not breath. I could not move. I was helpless. My mind was screaming out to let go and just die. My heart on the other hand said for me to fight for you.

My mind drifted back to what the Sorceress of the Bend had said about believing in the Light. So I believed. I believed with all of my heart. I, for the fist time in my life, felt slightest stir of Light within me. It swelled up until it almost exploded. Then I let it all out. Light escaped through every poor in my body. Suddenly I heard a terrible scream. It was Darkness'. I had hurt him. Darkness heaved and I flew out of him. I hit the roof and then fell to the ground. I couldn't feel anything and was covered from head to toe with a tar like substance. Still I rose. I saw Darkness on the floor. He rose also. We were both hurt very badly. I had strength now that I could see that Darkness could be hurt.

Darkness screamed out in a total rage and his eyes glowed an eerie bright yellow. His arm extended and grabbed me from across the room. He then brought me over to where he was. He grinned and started the squeeze the life out of me. As I saw the life fading from me I began to think of you. And my heart sung once more for you...

"I remembered the time when we first held hands,
`twas more lovelier than a trillion gold strands.
When we first touched 'twas poetry in motion,
It brought out of me, my deepest emotion.
I wish I could have said how much I love you,
I wish you could understand my love is true.

I was no one great and I was no one good,
But you still loved me, and still you understood.
I wish I had once again the love we once shared,
Because a love like yours can never be compared.
Should I chance that we will never again kiss,
Or should I be plunged down into the abyss."

I stood at death's door thinking that if I died in Darkness' hand's, I'd be happy knowing that at one time, we once shared a love. Darkness looked down on me and giggled loudly. Then he spoke...

"No one can be more powerful than me!,
No one can withstand the powers that be!
I tried once but I was met with retreat,
You truly thought that, Darkness, you could beat?

Ha! ha! ha! ha!

Idiot!! Darkness is in everything,
In the skies and in the birds that do sing!
I posses great power, now won't you cry?
You are too late you fool!! For now you will die!!
Now you'll taste my deep, dark, devious wrath,
You idiotic warrior Aftermath!!!

Ha! Ha! Ha!

It's I who control your love beyond rhymes,
It's I who force you to commit these crimes.
You believe in love, and I in power,
You are kind, you'd find life in a flower.
Come on, lay down, let me in, take a rest,
As I slay the one with the falcon's crest.

Ha!, Ha!

Evil, so vile, shall finally prevail,
Death is in the air! I can surely smell!
I am so great and powerful it's true,
I am now taking life away from you!
You can do nothing, ha! what can you do?
The prophecies have failed! they are not true!

Ha!

I have taken your power to wingdom!
I have taken your love and your kingdom!
I have taken from you no less than all,
I have taken your soul and watched you fall.

Ha! Ha!

I know that deep down you love her no more,
Hate the one that you once did adore!
Look how she has hurt you so very cruel!
If you don't hate her then you are a fool!
Join with me I will show you it is true,
Many places that will mystify you.

Ha!, Ha!, Ha!

Do you not know that she loves you no more?
Why even bother it is such a chore?
You know deep in your heart, you need her not!
She'll be the reason that your heart will rot!
I do not see how you can hold her dear,
You moronic fool! she is why you are here!

Ha!, ha!, ha!, ha!

You were indeed a warrior great and strong,
And so I waited for so very long.
You will be unto oblivion's strife,
For now it is I who will take your life,
I say: love her no longer and you'll live!
A chance at another life do I give.

Evilish laughter this night is dancing in the air!
Can you stand it? you are struggling in your despair!
You tell me that your love always endures?
Live, fool, the choice is ultimately yours.

Darkness laid me on his alter and stared down at me. I decided that for our love I must speak up and defend us. I summoned up all of my courage and then spoke these words...

"So you say that the choice is only mine,
You are so unholy, you are so kind.
I'll always love her more than life itself,
I could never be with anyone else!
My love for her holds no bounds can't you see?
Me? love someone else? that can never be!

I'd give my life for her with no regret,
My love for her will I never forget.
She means nothing less than the world to me,
If I die 'cause of her then let it be!
My love for her, you ask, will I deny?
I say, I think not! I would rather die!"

"Now it is time for the Light to die," Darkness screeched. "Hope will die with you." Darkness was really angry. My words really stung him to the core. Because here he thought that I was broken, but all he did was give me more courage. He snapped his fingers and you appeared out of the shadows. He wanted me to know that you saw my death. He wanted to torture me more. I could not look at you. I didn't want you to see me this way. I looked up at Darkness and could see that he had the Dagger of Darkness ready to strike the life out of me. "She is here of her own accord," he laughed. I was ready for death. I looked on in fear at that instrument of evil that would take my life. Darkness raised back his head in ecstasy as he bellowed out loud, his eyes glowing red...

"Now no one can stop me, this world will run red,
With the blood of innocence that I will shed!
You are no king for I have ended your reign,
And now I will also end your horrid pain!"

He thrusted down with all of his might. The Dagger of Darkness seemed to laugh with glee. 'This is the end,' I thought, 'farewell Robyn, my love.'

Time seemed to flow slowly and my eyes stayed focused on you. I could hear the dagger whizzing down towards my heart. I could feel deaths embrace. I felt him there in the room. I felt the world cry out as it's last hope was about to be lost. A river of black and grays washed away the colors. The Light grew dim. You were not looking at me. You just couldn't see me die. A single tear rolled down your cheek and you turned to me. Just before the dagger entered my heart, you looked into my eyes, and whispered those three magical words that still ring in my ears today,

"I love you."

The love that we shared broke through for a brief moment. And a powerful Light shone forth that rocked the entire world.

"Darkness screamed out in agony, "NOOOOOOOOAAAAARGGGHHAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Darkness faded away. I was astounded by your words, I blacked out. When I awoke two days later you were gone. How ironic was it that you defeated Darkness. Then again I have come to learn that you can never know what to expect from this world of Zandarous. My heart was no longer stone. I could feel it beating once again. I was happy that Darkness was defeated. I hoped in my heart that he would never come back. We were lucky that we caught Darkness with his guard down. I could not be happy, totally, because you were gone. I wondered why you had left. I wondered were you were. Perhaps you went back home to the Queendom of Beauty's Bend? I knew that you would not have gone back to Falcos and neither would I. I still had to find you. I knew in my heart that our love would ultimately destroy Darkness. I showed you my dedication by standing by and fighting for you, no matter what was at stake. My heart was whole, you were safe, the world was void of Darkness, but one thing still saddened me... I still was a King, without a Queen.

"Oh how I do wish that I could see into your heart,
Maybe then I could understand why you did depart.
Oh how I wish that you could tell me what I have done,
I know down deep in my heart you truly are the one.
Throughout all my life, in my heart you will always be,
You have opened my eyes and have made me see.
I am sorry that I have brought you nothing but pain,
Knowing that I have hurt you is driving me insane.

I hope you know, I'm forever devoted to you,
I hope you know, my love for you will always be true.
I know deep in my heart that I can love no other,
My love for you I'd never be able to cover.
And though my love for you is on all of these pages,
Everything is the same with us except our ages.
Would you please open your heart to me and let me in?
With our love I believe that we can start once again.

Could you please tell me just what is keeping us apart?
For even you have to know deep within your great heart,
That your magnificent beauty is beyond compare,
With me again, your love, I do so wish you would share.
My how life has played us out a great, strange, tragedy.
My love is going to last for an eternity.
I just wish that you would answer a question or three,
If everything was right would you come back to me?

The very next question will be question number two,
Can you even imagine how much I do love you?
The final question is merely question number three,
Deep in your adoring heart, do you still love me?
No one can ever, ever mean what you mean to me,
I love you so greatly I do wish that you could see.
Oh how I wish I knew what to say so perfectly,
What, oh what, can you tell me, destroyed your love for me?

I wish I could know what it is that you're going through,
Until now, I never knew how much I did love you.
When I lost you, I lost everything, I was distraught,
Do you know how much happiness, to me, you have brought.
If I had the power I'd treat you more than a Queen,
It would truly be heaven, it would be like a dream.
I have so much love in my heart, just for you, to send,
But, only to someone who's beauty is without end.

Your beauty, grace, and charm, over my heart, has a hold,
Please, I beg you, take me back, have mercy on my soul.
If you took me back it would be beyond believing,
For I would be afraid that I was only dreaming.
Trust me when I say, to me, you have done no wrong,
My heart, truly forever, to you does it belong.
If you ever need me utter my name from your mouth,
For that is when you will see me coming from the south.

I've been through many adventures untold,
Fighting for your beauty and your mystique so bold.
Merely seeing you brought back sweet, sweet, memories,
Of our loves great, great, melodious harmonies.
When your beauty reaches out it is utter bliss,
I wish I could reach out and give you but a kiss.
My love for you sings out loud like lovely wind chimes,
Truly as it's written, hidden within these rhymes.
No matter how far I travel away from home,
Or if I'm a Dark Knight on my huge, steed alone.
Robyn, my dear, I just always want you to see,
That no girl can ever mean, what you mean to me.

I love you with all of my heart
and soul forever,

I wish this story, for me, had a happy ending,
All the time, with you, I know that I would be spending.
I love happy endings in everything that can be,
I wish I could say I'd a happy ending for me.
These happenings and battles are cold, reality,
I'm afraid my heart's this story's only casualty.
I'd like to thank you for being my inspiration,
Although I am drowning in utter desperation.
Your charm and essence to me it truly inspires,
You have within you all of my total desires.
They may say this Epic is great but don't you forget,
I love you so greatly and Ill never regret it.
I understand one thing now, and I'll always take heed,
You're all in this world, that I, will ever really need.

The Falcon now silently wept in my head. I shut him off lest he crushed me. The childeren all sat in silence. Sarah finished scribing and she placed the quill down silently. Tears filled her eyes as she silently cried. "That was beautiful," she whispered wiping her eyes.

Dhovan and Ben looked upon me as did Emily. They were all silent. I cleared my throat and looked out the window. "My, my," I said. "It is indeed getting late." And indeed it was well beyond dusk.

"Dear!" Sarah gasped. "We must be getting home!"

The boys got up stretching. Emily arose and walked over to her sister. Sarah picked her up in her arms and Emily ley her head on Sarah's shoulder. I arose too.

"I'm sorry my friends," I said. "I fear I've made you late."

"That's okay," Ben said. "We always walk at night when mother's not around."

"You've got to promise us something," Dhovan said to me. "This night you must not follow us."

"On my honor as a Knight of the Falcon," I responded as I lifted my left hand.

"Can we come again tomorrow?" Sarah asked.

"Yes," Ben added. "I'd love to hear more of your story."

"Yes," I nodded as we stopped at the edge of the drawlbridge. "I think I'd like that. Oh before I forget..." I paused fumbleing through my cloak. I pulled at a ring that was tied to a string that was tied to the inside. "This is for you Dhovan. It is called an Alographia Ring. It'll help with your headaches."

"Dhovan gasped and Sarah looked at him with concern. "H-how did you know of my headaches?"

"That is not important," I answered. "What is, is that the headaches will now stop. Have a safe journey back home, and be careful."

They promised me they would and said thier goodbye's. When they got to the edge of the drawlbridge, Emily raised her head.

"Can I ask you something Areios?" Emily asked. The others stopped and turned to me. I nodded my head in answer. She smiled and then asked in all of her inocence, "Are you the Falcon of legend?"

The others looked at me as I stood there shrouded in silence, my hood and cloak making me look as thogu I was a phantom. I turned to leave then stopped, the water trickling by in the moat underneath me the only sound.

"I am he," I replied as I started off again.

Their gasps filled the air, as I called to the three falcons and told then to see the childeren home safely and then returned to the castle.

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