The Lost Princess of Camelot: Book One

Chapter Nine

Pendragon Castle, Great Hall, 1509

Arthur then asks Mahfiruze, "Can we talk?" The atmosphere shifted as they both understood the importance of the conversation ahead.

Mahfiruze nodded, her expression serious yet open. "Of course, Arthur," she replied, taking a seat across from him, ready to discuss the challenges that loomed before them.

Arthur looked at Mahfiruze, his brow slightly furrowed. "How do you feel about my daughter coming to the palace?" he inquired earnestly.

Mahfiruze smiled softly, "I am totally fine with it, Arthur," and she felt like a daughter to him. "As I previously stated, she is inseparable from me. "Even if we aren't related by blood."

Arthur listened intently, absorbing Mahfiruze's words. He felt a wave of relief wash over him as her expression conveyed warmth and acceptance. "That means a lot to me," he replied, his voice steady.

Mahfiruze nodded, her eyes sparkling with kindness. "You go and bring her home safe and sound," she added, emphasizing the importance of the promise.

Arthur said, “I promise.” He felt a deep connection to Mahfiruze's words, understanding the sentiment behind them.

Leontes and an unknown knight entered the room, their presence commanding attention. Arthur's gaze shifted to them, momentarily interrupting his conversation with Mahfiruze.

The atmosphere in the room shifted as the two figures approached, their armor gleaming under the flickering torchlight.

Leontes, tall and imposing, nodded respectfully at Arthur before addressing the both of them. "The horses are ready, your majesty."

Arthur straightened, a sense of urgency coursing through him. "Thank you," he replied, glancing back at Mahfiruze, whose expression mirrored his mix of anticipation and concern.

The unknown knight stood silently beside Leontes, his presence both intriguing and intimidating. Arthur wondered about the stranger's identity and purpose as the tension in the room thickened.

Arthur turned to the unknown knight, his apprehension increasing. "Who are you?" he inquired, his voice steady despite the uncertainty in the air.

The knight's gaze remained unwavering, a flicker of amusement playing at the corners of his lips. "Sir Tyler, your grace," he finally revealed, his tone low and measured.

Arthur's heart raced at the formality of the introduction, sensing that this Sir Tyler held secrets that could alter the course of their fates. "What brings you to our court?" he pressed, eager to uncover the truth behind the enigmatic figure standing before him.

Leontes then informs Arthur that Sir Tyler has recently completed his training to become a knight.

Arthur's eyes widened in surprise. "I see," he said, acknowledging the significance of the moment. "Congratulations, Sir Tyler," he added, a smile breaking across his face. Arthur felt the weight of the knight's accomplishments and the potential that lay ahead.

"Thank you, your majesty," Sir Tyler replied, bowing slightly in respect. Leontes watched the exchange with pride, knowing how hard Sir Tyler had worked to earn his knighthood. "It is a great honor," Sir Tyler continued, his voice steady.

Arthur nodded, feeling the atmosphere shift with the knight's gratitude and humility. Arthur was aware that the young knight would cherish this moment as the start of a new chapter.

Leontes then asked Arthur if it was alright for Sir Tyler to join them on their journey.

Arthur smiled and nodded, recognizing the value of having such a dedicated companion by their side. "Absolutely," he replied, "his skills will be invaluable as we face the challenges ahead."

Sir Tyler says, "Thank you, your majesty. I will not fail you. You have my word."

Arthur then says, "I have no doubt."

He took a deep breath, steeling himself for the journey ahead. "We must leave at once," Arthur commanded, his voice steady despite the uncertainty that loomed over them.

Then they exit the room and head to the horses waiting in the courtyard.

A while later everyone prepared to leave for the Shanea Forbidden Forest.

Arthur tells the knights to prepare to mount their horses.

With a sense of determination, the group began to gather their supplies, readying themselves for the adventures that awaited them.

Mahfiruze looked at Arthur, her eyes filled with concern and encouragement. "Good luck, Arthur, and stay safe out there," she said softly, hoping her words would bolster his spirits.

As they prepared for the journey, Arthur felt a surge of gratitude for her support. He nodded in acknowledgment, determined to face the challenges of the Shanea Forbidden Forest ahead.

The knights mounted their horses, tension mingling with excitement as they set forth into the unknown. Each rider felt the weight of their mission, fueled by the camaraderie and bravery that surrounded them.

As they set off, the sun broke through the clouds, casting a golden glow on the path ahead, symbolizing hope and new beginnings.

Shanea Forbidden Forest Village, 1509

In the heart of the Shanea Forbidden Forest Village, Rhaenys and Rynlyf marveled at the vibrant flora and fauna surrounding them. Creatures of all shapes and sizes flitted through the trees, each more enchanting than the last. The village was alive with the sounds of laughter and chatter, as magical beings shared stories of their adventures. Rhaenys felt a sense of wonder, eager to learn about the unique cultures that thrived in this hidden realm.

Rhaenys turned to Rynlyf, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "What kind of creatures live here in the village?"

Rynlyf smiled, gesturing toward a nearby tree where a small, luminescent fairy danced among the branches. "We have fairies, of course, but also elves, talking animals, and even the occasional dragon," he explained.

Rhaenys's excitement grew as she listened, imagining the adventures that awaited her in this magical place. "Each creature has its own story and culture, making this village truly special," Rynlyf added. Rhaenys couldn't wait to dive deeper into the wonders that surrounded her.

Rhaenys smiled, gesturing toward a nearby tree where a small, luminescent fairy danced among the branches. "Do you have a royal family in this magical place?" she asked curiously.

Rynlyf nodded, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Yes, we do! The royal family has been here for generations, protecting our village and its inhabitants," he explained.

Rhaenys looked at him, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "What kind of creature is the royal family?" she asked.

Rynlyf smiled, sensing her eagerness. "The royal family are fairy creatures, filled with magic and wonder," he explained.

Rhaenys gasped, her imagination igniting at the thought of such enchanting beings. "Fairies? That sounds incredible!" she exclaimed, her mind racing with possibilities.

Rhaenys's excitement grew as she listened, imagining the adventures that awaited her in this enchanted land. "What are their stories?" she inquired, eager to learn more about the royals.

"Each member has a unique tale, filled with bravery and wisdom," Rynlyf replied, sensing her intrigue. "You'll love hearing about them!"

He leaned closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "For instance, there's the legend of Queen Elara, who once single-handedly defended our borders from a fearsome dragon," he said, his eyes widening with the thrill of the tale.

As he spoke, the air around them seemed to shimmer with magic, pulling her deeper into the narrative. "And then there's the story of Prince Kaelan, whose compassion for the people led him to forge an alliance that changed the fate of our kingdom forever," Rynlyf continued, his enthusiasm infectious.

Rynlyf paused, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "The current queen is Queen Seraphina, known for her wisdom and fierce dedication to her people," he explained. The mention of her name brought a sense of pride to Rhaenys, igniting her desire to learn more about the queen's legacy.

Rhaenys said, “Wow, that's a beautiful name.” She felt inspired, eager to uncover the stories that shaped her kingdom's history. The connection between the past and present sparked a flame of curiosity within her.

Rhaenys turned to Rynlyf and asked, “Does Queen Seraphina have any children?”

Rynlyf smiled softly, appreciating her interest in the royal family. “Yes, she has two children,” he replied, “a daughter named Elara and a son named Joran.”

The information deepened Rhaenys's intrigue, as she wondered how the queen's lineage would influence the future of the kingdom. “What are they like?” she inquired, eager to learn more about the next generation.

Rynlyf chuckled, “Elara is known for her kindness, while Joran is brave and adventurous.” Rhaenys felt a growing connection to the royal family, envisioning their roles in the kingdom's unfolding story.

Rhaenys exclaimed, "Wow! That's fascinating." She then turned to Rynlyf and asked about Seraphina’s husband. Rynlyf replied, “He’s a noble man, respected by many in the court.”

Rhaenys's enigma increased further as she contemplated how Seraphina's partner would shape the royal family’s dynamics. "What is he like?" she pressed, wanting to understand more about the family.

Rynlyf smiled and said, “He’s wise and protective, always putting his family first.” This insight deepened Rhaenys's appreciation for the royal lineage, inspiring thoughts of their future impact.

Rhaenys then asked, “What was Seraphina’s husband’s name?”

Rynlyf paused for a moment, considering how to answer. “His name is Lord Aelric,” he finally replied.

Rhaenys exclaimed, "Wow, that's a handsome name!" She was intrigued by the significance it held within the royal family dynamics.

Rhaenys then asked, "Is it only queens who rule the Shanea Forbidden Forest?"

Rynlyf nodded, confirming her curiosity. “Yes, only queens who rule the Shanea Forbidden Forest,” he responded.

Rhaenys pondered this, fascinated by the power and responsibility that came with such a title. “What qualities do these queens possess?” she inquired further.

Rynlyf smiled, “They must be wise and strong, able to protect their realm while fostering harmony.”

Rhaenys listened intently, her mind racing with thoughts about queens and their roles. “Wow,” she exclaimed, realizing the weight of leadership. “Would I be a noble queen?” she wondered aloud, her mind racing.

Rynlyf observed her closely, sensing her deep contemplation. “You possess a strong spirit, Rhaenys,” he assured her. “With guidance, you could embody those qualities.”

Rhaenys felt a mixture of excitement and trepidation at the prospect of ruling. “It’s a daunting task,” she acknowledged, imagining the responsibilities of a queen. “But I want to learn more.”

Rynlyf then says to Rhaenys, “Well, I can introduce you to Queen Seraphina.” This could be the opportunity Rhaenys needed to gain insight and direction.

As Rynlyf spoke, Rhaenys's heart raced with anticipation. Meeting the queen could unlock the secrets of leadership she desperately sought, transforming her dreams of a brighter realm into reality.

Rhaenys gazed thoughtfully at Rynlyf, her mind racing with possibilities. “That would be awesome, Rynlyf, thank you,” she replied, her excitement palpable.

Rhaenys looked at Rynlyf and asked, “How do you know Queen Seraphina?”