The Shadow of Amulets

Trials and Tribulations

"I am writing to you to inform you of a matter that has been increasing in the past few months. It involves the recent sightings and increase of these strange creatures. I am requesting a hearing with all three Kings of Xadia. I do hope we can agree to this hearing and I look forward to meeting you all

Arthur"

King Arthur's POV

I wrapped up the note and passed it to Vivian who moved it for transport. I was deep in thought in my study trying to figure out many things when Vivian came in.

"Sir I have organised the message to be sent to all the Kings," Vivian said. "Thank you, Vivian" I replied to then focused back on my work.

"If I may ask Sir" he started to speak. You have been down here for many days now and you haven't had much to eat. I request that you should go and get some fresh air" Vivian finished.

"Vivian I appreciate your worry for my health, however, what I'm studying is of top importance," I said quickly. "What is it that you are so drawn to?" he asked. I looked at him and debated on whether to tell him but decided it was the best course of action. "Okay...what I'm researching is the manuscripts of the fourth age," I said. Vivian looked confused. "Why would that interest you Sir" he replied.

"During this age, there were many strange events, mysteries, and certain miracles recorded... Including the finding of the Amulets of Xadia" I finished.

"Ah yes I remember. 'The age of magic', is what many deemed that time as" he said.

"When the stone Link found was brought to my attention, I knew this was something unusual. The aura it had. The unique design. There was definitely magic involved.

In a world where magic is thought to be a myth, being in the presence of the Amulet was mystifying" I explained.

"There were many theories surrounding the sudden appearance of the Amulets. Some thought it a hoax to lure people into worshipping them. Others decided the Amulets were a gift for mankind. Some were against the use of these Amulets and deemed them a curse" I explain.

"During the time these Amulets were found, a number of strange events occurred. One, in particular, being strange creatures appearing throughout the land" I continued.

"Strange creatures?" Vivian said with a slight shock. "Yes. Many were sighted and no one could figure out the cause. I believe these events were the cause of the Amulets" I say slowly. Vivian looked surprised. "You believe the Amulets summoned these creatures and started the chaos?" he asked. "Many were deceived," he said bluntly. "Sudden magical stones that appeared out of thin air would only be treated as a miracle of life.

Hence why no one suspected the Amulets to be the source.

"So what of Alaan and Link?" Vivian asked.

"That's simple. They need to find all the Amulets" I say. "The sooner they find them, the better for all of us" I add with slight concern in my voice.

Vivian paused for a few moments.

"Don't you think if Alaan and Link found the first Amulet, anyone would be able to find the others?" Vivian asked.

I paused and stared at him for a few moments.

"I don't know why Link was able to find the Amulet...but it must mean something. There has to be a connection with Link and the Amulets and that will help with finding the rest" I say.

"But that doesn't mean he isn't the only one" I add on.

Vivian looked back with slight confusion. "So why must we call a hearing with all three Kings of Xadia. Shouldn't we keep this information secret," he asked.

"The aim, for now, isn't to tell the other King's everything. Mostly because everything I've said is just a theory. It would be foolish to alert everyone without having any proof" I replied.

"So you intend on releasing some information I presume," Vivian asked.

"It's no secret that the appearance of these strange creatures has increased over the land. This is an issue and we need to address this urgently.

I believe we have all become lazy in protecting the land and in our laziness, unexpected events have arisen like the creatures" I explain.

Vivian understood the plan and stood up. I realised I was getting a bit too serious so I decided to lighten up.

"Well, I think I deserve some fresh air. It's not good being kept in here for days. I feel like I have breathed in more dust than air" I said getting up.

"Thank you sir for leaving your study. I think a change of scenery is best at this time" Vivian exclaimed. "Your right! Thank you Vivian" I said as I exited the room and headed for outside.

The majority of the day resumed as normal. I had some meetings to attend with some people from the castle's council.

It was nearing sunset and I was looking out from my balcony admiring the castle in its beauty. I was strangely reminiscent today and kept having memories of my past. My consciousness directed me to the time I was appointed King of this castle after the passing of my father. I felt many emotions thinking of that time, both joy and sadness. It was very rejuvenating reminiscing my past, but it was interrupted when a knight stormed in alerted me.

"My lord, we have an emergency!" he said with urgency. "What is the matter?" I replied.

"Some of our Knights have returned from a scouts mission and they come bearing severe injuries," he said.

"Well, why are they injured," I asked quickly awaiting a reply.

"They described their attackers as malformed creatures," the knight said.

My eyes lit up in shock as the words left his mouth. "What are the creatures doing so close to our castle. They must be increasing in number" I said consciously. "Thank you for informing me, I'll head to them now!" I said as I headed out of the main room and to the grounds where they were.

When I arrived, they were laying there being checked by the specialist. Everyone bowed In respect as I arrived. I went to the two injured Knights to ask them about the creatures.

I bent down to their level and spoke quietly to them. "Knights!, I heard you were attacked during your mission. Please tell me everything you witnessed.

One of the injured Knights struggled to sit up and started speaking.

"We were ambushed...by these strange malformed, inhuman creatures. They were exceedingly fast and agile and very strong. We managed to kill some creatures but more were coming. We are sorry we couldn't finish the threat while we were there" the Knight explained while in some pain.

My mind was going through many thoughts while hearing his story.

"It is fine. I am very glad you decided to flee. Those creatures should not be taken lightly. I however did not expect them to appear this close to our castle" I replied.

A few hours passed and the night was dark and the lights were out. I was sitting by myself on my balcony pondering the events of today. "I do hope Alaan and Link are okay. I know they can handle themselves. They're both exceptionally talented individuals. I just hope they are finding the other Amulets" I said to myself while very deep in thought.

"My lord, is this a good time?" Vivian said as he entered. "Yes, what is it" I replied. "I wanted to ask you about the Knights who returned today," Vivian said. I turned around to face as this needed to be discussed.

"It is how you heard Vivian. They were attacked by the creatures" I said.

"This isn't good. I highly recommend sending us to kill these creatures. These have become a problem for months. We need to act now!" Vivian hammered on.

"I do understand that this is a problem hence why I called a hearing, however, I do not think sending you and your team is the best strategy right now. We have no knowledge of these creatures capability let alone how many there are" I replied.

"But sir! We cannot do anything. Each day, their numbers increase. At least give me the permission to secure the castle's perimeter of these creatures. It appears they have been very close to us" Vivian exclaimed.

I had to agree with him. He was making much sense. "Alright, Vivian. You have convinced me. Assemble your team and leave by morning. Also, get a good look at how many there are" I say staring him in the eye.

"But do not engage!

I just want you to get a good grasp of what we are dealing with" I added.

"You have nothing to worry about. I'll handle it quickly and efficiently" he says before exiting but stops.

"Also one more thing Sir. How do you think Alaan and Link will do" he asks.

I look at him and smile.

"They will do just fine. They have a great teacher to thank for it" I say to him. He lets out a small laugh.

"I believe in them. They are my best students after all" he said before exiting.

I watched him exit and I turned around and looked outside and stared into the sky.

"I hope you stay strong Alaan. I miss you greatly. I didn't think it was this difficult living without you" I spoke softly smiling and reminiscing.