Sergey Streltsov.
Yester-times.
The mini-novel for children.
1.1
It was bright spring morning.
Dawns in the
This morning was breaking into
existence in gentle way that was not to disturb those sleeping and, the same
time, was to raise cheerful atmosphere in minds of those who already woke up
and started to fulfill their daily duties. These working class and priesthood
people were already occupied with their affairs after short but obligatory
morning prayers at the saint altars in their houses and on the main squares of
their villages.
Sun seemed smiling to the
The castle of king Talantus
was already busy with servants, bakers, cooks, and other people so plain of
rank and unseen in day-by-day life that their names had not survived till our
days. Only few of them now remained in historic rolls of fame. One of them was
Nadine, the maid general of princess Lavinia. She was named after her mother,
who was in her time maid general of Lavinias mother. These Nadine girls were
very industrious ones in their time, they had to rise early and after brief
washing of their lively and intelligent faces went to prepare dresses and
bijoux for their young princesses.
When princess Lavinias mother
was dying after giving birth to her only child, she asked her best friend in
the world, her maid general, you know name of this girl was Nadine, to give
birth to maid general for her daughter, and at the end of that year, little
Nadine was borne and destined to fate of faithful service to the court and especially
to another little girl, who, then in gilded cradle, was waiting for days to
come and fortune to fulfill.
1.2
Lavinia slept in her bedroom
in her fathers castle. Her rich bed was adorned with flowers of spring, and
above her head hung the tapestry with brave prince with freckles on lovely face
and in expensive armors. He was riding white horse since occasion when father
presented this thing to her at her third birthday. And since the day, the boy,
prince was the beautiful boy, was night guest of Lavinias dreams. They walk
along lakes, they rode chariot, they sometimes kissed, but the latter was
secret from the universe. The dearest bijou of Lavinias heart, it was
considered in her private opinion as only her bijou that was true.
Nadine entered into Lavinia
bed-room with little silver bell announcing the time to rise for the princess.
Lavinia showed her face from under the blanket with grimace of intolerance to
any disturbance of her privacy.
Its time to pray, princess.
Nadine said as if she had not seen Lavinias face.
Pray, pray. Night and day.
Princess teased her sitting up.
Good people are always
praying in the morning. Nadine, long ago accustomed to ways of life in royal
family, was steadfast at her duties.
Good people have no need in
praying. God is already on their side and inclined to bless every need of those
he loves, Lavinia retorted in her usual morning stubborn mood.
But why, if youre right,
saints dedicate to prayer most of the time? Nadine simply asked.
I think it is old-fashioned
tricks, Lavinia proceeded in arrogant mood.
And if so, their
wonder-working is old-fashioned tricks, too, Nadine was unable to hide her
wise and sensitive smile.
Would be. Who need wonders
now-a-days? Ill beggars? Stupid crones? Gullible illiterate men? Who? Lavinia
was inexorable.
I think wonders are needed by
every one. Everybody has his grief and sorrow to relieve, sickness to heal, and
vital problem to solve, Pious heart of Nadine found due words with steady
effort.
But we have friends for
sorrows, doctors for sickness and king to cope with any problem, Lavinia now
spoke looking baldly in the eyes of her maid general.
You speak as haughty
princess, if you can see the world as sage one, youll know that not everything
can be helped by friends, doctors and kings. Nadine sighed.
This must be appraised as
sign of disloyalty? Lavinia raised her eyebrow.
Just as you wish. But I beg
Your Highness to rise, then though shortly but to pray, then to dress something
appropriate, and then Nadine began.
Its enough, my dear Nadine.
Lets get praying. Lavinia interrupted her.
They kneeled at the window
with view to altar of castle, lifted their hands and sang three hymns first to
glorify the God, second to ask Him for mercy, and third to declare their love
for Him forever and ever. Getting on her feet Lavinia suddenly asked Nadine.
Do you remember the knight.
Fluctuantius is his name. He was at our last tournament, and won it.
That who all the time boasted
about his riches and exploits.
Dont be so rude. He made a
several advances to me, Lavinia said.
Im awfully sorry to hear.
But he is rich.
He is not of royal blood,
Nadine retorted.
Dont be such a fool. The
royal blood is no more ruler of world. The things gold is doing, no king can
do.
You speak like commoner,
Nadine smiled.
But Im right.
Noble soul is stronger then
gold.
But even noble soul without
purse is nothing.
I dont want to go in the
theme.
Dont give up! You can make
me better girl, Nadine.
There is no better for best.
I love this line of thought.
Nadine approached wardrobe to
choose Lavinias dress for the day, and looking at the purple pillow in it she
had not found princess diamond diadem, the symbol of her principality.
Your Highness, your diadem is
stolen.
Dont drivel, I was undressed
by another maid, and there was no diadem. I think it just was left somewhere. I
danced at the yesterday ball till the end and I took off the thing in the
middle of the night and it would be in any place in ball-room.
You must be more careful with
signs of your power in future.
My power is only to obey my
father, and to avoid pleading for all little needs of modest girl who want a
comfort of paternal understanding.
Take this dress, Your
Highness, Ill help you to fasten its clasps, and we go to seek it.
After mounting complicated attire on royal
figure of Lavinia, they set forth to ball-room of castle. It had still kept
traces of yesterday ball. Tables and chairs were covered with colorful ribbons.
Pieces of meals and puddles of wines were on the floor. Instruments of
musicians were left on the scene, beside them there sat Ririo, clown of kings
retinue. He was funny midget, with soft eyes, and brisk laughter, ready to
outburst in every possible moment. Ririo turned his face to girls when heard
them approaching.
Nice morning, Highness. What
about the breakfast with me. I see nice apple on the floor we can go in shares
for it, if you please.
God bless you fools. You can
kiss my hand, poor Ririo, to apologize for improper behavior. Lavinia gave him
her hand for kissing.
No matter how improper general politeness is,
I am to obey. He blew his kiss to her hand not rising from his place. I never
knew that inviting to the restorative addressed to those who need it is felony
in your eyes.
Poor ugly, you know what I
mean, princess said and sat down in her chair. Do you know by the way where
my diadem is?
Every fool in the castle
knows it.
And would this every fool
show me the way.
The way is only to stand up
and get here. Ririo showed her the diadem which was lying behind him.
Look, Nadine. I was right
gold will always find its way.
What do you mean, Highness.
Ririo said throwing to Lavinia her diadem.
We were discussing with
Nadine super power of our days.
And that mighty one was
gold? Ririo asked askance.
How many wits are in this
awkward head!
Then I wish to propose little
song, one of my latest. The ripe product of gift not to be compared with any in
tough poetic business. Ririo said rubbing his sleepy eyes.
Then we are all the ear,
Ririo. Sit down, Nadine, let him make the morning funny.
Ririo took the lyre from
scene, and after two or three skillful chords performed the next.
I feel somewhere that I will
die.
No matter how. No matter why.
But it is laughable to think
That death can peace and make
and bring.
On tomb of mine will dance new
folk
And name of mine will be
small-talk.
And purse of mine- the laughing-stock,
With certain hearts will pay
its joke.
Lavinia shortly applauded and
then, turning to go back, said to Ririo.
Good piece, my fool, you are
deserved your apple on the floor.
He smiled at her back and
whispered to himself.
God bless your heart, my
princess.
1.3
King Talantus was old warrior
and had simple habits. He never permitted to his servant to make his modest
face to blush. He served himself in all his needs. He loved to go hunting
alone, to make light lunch from his game. He woke up always early, kept
especially long morning prayers for about an hour and then usually went to the
library where he was reading books about ancient kings and their kingdoms,
about flood that effaced life on the Earth, about brave and honest man who saved
human race from perdition in those terrible days, also he especially loved
books about travels in distant lands he never saw, about food, animals and
languages of those lands. He had tender heart and quick imagination and that
opened to him the unseen and the mysterious.
He was clever ruler of his
lands. People were not overtaxed, they had regular feasts, and education even
among poorest wasnt rare thing. The first care of king Talantus was weaker
ones. He watched that the orphans, the aged, the ailing, and the poor had
enough from his treasury. And in the midday he himself was visiting gates of
his castle to give alms to beggars, and he knew almost all of them by the name.
When Delio, chief priest of
his kingdom, and Ririo, the clown, entered into his chamber that morning, king
was still praying on his knees. When he heard them coming he asked them.
Pray with me, my friends, and
would be Savior will show to-day his mercy to us.
We willingly do what you
wish. But what to pray about? Delio said.
I feel I must die and very
soon. But I want to see my only child happy.
Then you should not indulge
her, Your Majesty. Ririo chuckled.
No time for laughter,
brothers. I am old. And I know that in very short time Lavinia will became the
orphan. What I can do to protect her.
Only way, I think, is to
marry her off and do it quick.
Oh, Delio. You see me
through. But marry off to whom.
Delio raised his hands.
Good heavens. Youre asking
me to whom. The kings or heirs can only be contenders for her hand. Daughter of
great king must became wife of great king, too.
I think otherwise, Your
Majesty.
What do you think Ririo?
She was educated by fool,
namely me. She accustomed to my follies, of which main is poetic gift. She must
marry poet. Great poet, for I was great fool.
Thank you, brothers. Please,
kneel down with me. And lets pray to marry her off to great king who is in the
same time the great poet. Must he be also the great fool, Ririo? King smiled.
Not necessarily. Poet is
enough.
In the midday dozen of silver
trumpets sounded over central square of castle, where was situated the altar.
King among priests and his faithful knights in something long but lively
procession came out from doors of chamber of state counsel. King loved to hear
advices from nearly everybody from beggars to his daughter. But especially he
loved words of wisdom from Ririo and Delio. Delio was always serious when Ririo
was always laughable from first word to last. Even in awful grieves Ririo had
often found spot for mockery. And those who were ready to weep a moment ago
with Ririos cracks had burst with roar of ha-ha and no one could hush them
then. They were uncontrollable.
When procession stopped at the center of
square between death-stone, where each sacrificed animal was to die, and altar,
where it was to be burnt down for sake of God, king lifted his hands and said.
Be blessed those who in love
for they are improving this world! Be blessed those who in war for they are
fighting for peace! Be blessed the young and the old for they are alive! Be
blessed cruel and merciful for they are humans! Be blessed all in all and each
in each! Be blessed our God, The Savior, for He loves us though we are mean and
sinful! Amen.
He put his hand on the head of
his biggest white ox, and led it to death-stone where according to his life
long custom beheaded the animal with his sword in one stroke. Then king took
body of ox on his shoulders and slowly brought it to the altar. When king
Talantus was young it was pleasure to him to perform this with his strength and
agility. But with years it was getting harder and harder to bring body of ripe
ox to altar from death-stone. It always took twelve steps. But now everybody
could see that face of Talantus was pale and covered with perspiration. King
felt that his heart was beating weaker and weaker, he felt that he was about to
die. But he would have never postponed this sacrifice for he vowed to God that
he was going to do it for sake of Lavinia, his daughter. She must be happy in
her life, he thought. She must be happy, even if I wont see it. And she must
meet her love, this king and poet boy. When he put body of ox on the altar he
already knew that it was his last sacrifice in this life. He put on fire the
wood under the ox with torch given by Delio, and held hands lifted to the
Heavens till appearance of blue smoke above the altar, which was always sign of
the Gods acceptance of sacrifice. His heart was about to stop.
Oh, Savior, bless my little
Lavinia. From now on she is in your hands.
It was his last words. He fell
breathless before the altar.
1.4
The funeral service was to
have place the next day. King was lying in his coffin with soft countenance
with which he died. Lavinia on that night was tired of her tears. From time to
time she fell asleep and again woke up and sank in melancholy. Nadine was
always near, she had not slept. When Lavinia woke up last time and felt that
she cannot sleep more, she told to Nadine.
Now my life is useless. No
one will help me. And the main shortcoming of my new situation that no one will
help me to get married in proper way.
Why youre so sure?
Father had sense of people.
He could spot the man in a jiffy. I am too naïve to be able for any of
this spot-the-man practices. Ill be cheated out of my kingdom in one day.
But you have your knights,
and people who love you.
They love power but not me.
Dont be ridiculous.
I dont agree. But you can
make them to revere and venerate you, if you try.
Im not so rich.
Your Highness, in ways of
love the gold is nothing.
In ways of gold the love is
nothing. Thats right, I think, dear.
But what the gold is menace
to your throne.
Not precisely gold, but I
think someone with comparatively strong army can approach my people with more
convenient taxes.
But your fathers taxes were
low.
They are no more low, dear,
since Im in power.
You have good deal of
treasure.
Not so good for new dresses,
horses, and friends.
You need gold for friends? It
sounds strange.
Clever, beautiful, educated,
well-disposed to My Majesty friends. Dozens of them. Im exhausted by these
Delio-and-Ririo kind of men. And if to say more they never were my friends.
Fathers would be. But mine no.
And what youll do with your
new friends, Your Highness?
No more Highness Majesty is
correct.
Excuse me, Your Majesty.
With my new friends well
relax.
From what?
Relaxation is only thing I
need after being constrained in hands of my late father.
I think he wanted for you
something different life.
Lets forget it.
1.5
Till the
Lavinia, look its beginning
of your glory, said Delio.
What glory? Youre laughing
at my little kingdom, little treasury, and fame as quick as a wind in pursuit
of the day.
You must be ashamed from
Heavens your father sees you. And your words are of capricious girl, not of
queen of great descent.
Father doesnt see me and
never will.
Well all see each other at
Judgment Day, when God will give to everybody his due.
Delio, you know I never
really believed in this stuff. I prayed and attended sacrifices as my father
wished me to, but since now I hope to see nothing of this stuff. Were modern
people. We must be cute and reasonable. So dont ask me any more to observe
that that I dont want to.
I already heard these words.
Do you know from whom? From myself. But wisdom comes with years. I was young
and arrogant, and became old and wise. Dont hurry and years will do their job.
Youll see the life, and the life will show you whats right and clever and
whats wrong and unsuitable.
The trumpets blew three times.
And knights approached Talantus tomb stone in vivid and colorful procession. In
the head of them came
Lavinia Sorry. Your Majesty,
youre father was father to all of us. So and you will be our mother in joys
and sorrows and so judge us not without mercy. Your army is yours till the end
of your life, or life of your soldiers. Well be your friends and servants in
peace and war, like we were so far. Receive our oaths of loyalty. And, God
bless your heart to be clever not to begin the war.
Queens with such a tiny army
never begin the wars,
Youll make me an honor if
youre one of them, Your Majesty.
Your men can approach me to
show theyre loyal.
One by one knights were
kneeling before the new queen, kissing her hand with oath to serve faithfully.
Lavinia was nonetheless frustrated by something.
What the use, Delio dear, of
these customs. If someone will want to betray me, to rob me or even to kill me
all this huge amount of the kneeling and the swearing wont do any help.
Youre may be right. But they
swear not by their name, not by yours, but by Gods one. Theres all the
difference. You see?
I see that its foolish. What
good can make me the name of whats barely exist?
For the first I can point out
the huge privilege that your traitors will be judged not only by your judgment
but by Gods also. But Im afraid you will laugh at it.
Laugh? No! These well armed
and well trained men are menace. Dont you understand? And you propose to
entrust to Godly-something all these rot of troubles to come.
What do you want?
To buy them.
But how?
Time will show.
All twenty four knights of
What do you want?
Our part of treasury we
helped to build. Tirido winked to
How much?
The half will do.
Tirido, you can have a great
honor just to walk away with your dumb mob, and I awfully strongly opinionated
that the sooner youll leave the better.
No doubt it is.
Then well fight for our
right to have what we want to.
In this moment Ririo flew out
from crowd of the castle square, grasped Lavinia and with one word Run!
dashed dragging her by the hand into the castle. As they closed the door of
state counsel chamber behind them, through another door Nadine ran in.
Are you safe, Your Majesty?
She asked.
Quite.
This Tirido man is loony.
Ive heard about the half of your treasury! How nice of him!
Yes, move is clever. Lavinia
whispered coldly.
Your Majesty, fools are often
clever in their ways. Ririo came up with his new joke.
Thanks. But you fools can
cost me a kingdom.
Or save your life.
Thanks, Ririo. Thanks. But
what is amazing taxes are not yet risen, but mutiny is already here. What
well see later.
Stratagems and tribulations.
Youre right, Ririo. But
theres no consolation in your rightness.
Nevertheless in a very short
time
1.6
In this very time on Labion
island, Elizora, the enchantress, was sitting in her dark tower in the
In her green eyes lived some tension
unavoidable for all who had seen her. And only wise people could say what it
was for it was absence absence of love.
In hands of Elizora was
transparent sphere which was changing its colors every moment. It was sphere of
Nemigo, the evil genius, mighty spirit of this world. People who had this magic
sphere could talk with him. And to summon him up just one ancient conjuration
should be addressed to Nemigo through this sphere which resembled more ball of
fire than something made of glass or precious stone. And indeed, it was made of
no material thing but out of spells of ancient magic.
Lips of Elizora slightly moved
in conjuration addressed to Nemigo, and suddenly all the chamber was alive with
light of every color and hue which could be seen on earth or in heaven.
Good day, Elizora, Nemigo
said from inside of the sphere.
Good day, Your Excellence,
Elizora mumbled with supernatural fear that she felt in presence of Nemigo.
I have good news for you.
Im ready to obey, powerful
with others Elizora could not help but to cringe before Nemigo.
King Talantus is dead, and
you can get his kingdom to me.
By spells or by war? Elizora
asked him.
Spells are of no use there
because people of this kingdom are righteous in ways of God. You must take all
your warships and hold
What then? Elizora was
getting impatient.
Ill explain to you the whole
plan in due time.
The light of sphere
disappeared in this moment by the same magic power with which it appeared.
1.7
When dinner of Hieroglyph and
his marine robbers was in its prime, Elizora came out of the entrance to hall
of the castle where drunken songs and shouts were heard. It was feast of booze
of people if not fearless but then just pretending to be unafraid of guns and
sea, of death and pain, of treachery and blasphemy. Elizora silently approached
head of the huge table where Hieroglyph was sitting on silk cushions.
Elizora raised her hand above
to bid silence.
Time is come, she said.
Sainted Lakes is ours.
When we must begin campaign?
Hieroglyph asked from behind the veil that covered his face.
Tomorrow, when wine will
evaporate from your heads we shall start our invasion. I talked with Nemigo
about it.
Nemigo is real thing,
Hieroglyph said and voice drowned in the drunken shouts of men.
1.8
On the next morning warships
of Hieroglyph was unmoored and started on their long way through the sea to
Invasion was unexpected, so
when troops of Hieroglyph surrounded Lavinias castle, only knights and
servants were on the walls and at the gates to defend heart of their kingdom.
And they defended it effectually because
Lavinia herself was all the
time on verge of hysterics. She claimed surrender and defense almost
simultaneously.
1.9
After one month of the siege Elizora came to
the tent of Hieroglyph.
I have solution for our
problem with castle.
I glad you have, Hieroglyph
answered from behind veil.
You should offer parley to
Lavinia where you to announce as your decision that when she and her people
leave the castle without weapons you grant them their lives.
Its just as cute as war.
Whats the after that?
When door will be opened your
men must kill Lavinias men and capture her for me.
1.10
Lavinia wasnt at parley which
was done through little window in the gates of castle. And when
Give them my castle. And let
them keep me alive.
Dont be so stupid,
Save your wisdom to yourself,
Just as you want,
1.11
Delio and Ririo raised their
swords but right off were killed by archers.
Malvenuto, the eunuch of
Hieroglyph, who was leading hunt for Lavinia in assault of the castle, smiled.
Now youre our prisoner Your
Majesty. And Majesty no more.
Can I accompany my queen to
captivity? Nadine asked him.
All right. Come along,
girls, said Malvenuto, You will be murdered if any sign of disobedience will
be shown by your people.
At least were alive,
Lavinia sobbed and swooned.
2.1
When his father
king Miran died world seemed lost its colors to prince Timeus. He prayed about
his father through the nights and daily wrote book about exploits of late king
showing new pieces to his mother queen-widow Cora. It was becoming wonderful
book about true hero, true love and true meaning of life. This miracle of
literature was to survive through the ages to tell to future generations of
people of earth where road to glory is and how to find it. The book consisted
of verses. They were light and strong, tender and mild, sage and prophetic.
Timeus was very young but his mother was proud of her son, she listened to his
reading in the evenings before the dusk and hid secretive tear of happiness
tinted with sorrow about death of her beloved husband. In the month book was
about to be completed, it lacks only one thing- description of enthronization
of new king. But Timeus liked to be simple prince leaving all decisions about
The-Seven-Hills kingdom to his mother.
Once in the morning
mother found him weeping in his room.
Why are you
crying, dear? She asked.
I never, never
will be hero like my father. Im just poet, nothing more. And though my father
taught me how to use sword I will never have enough courage to brave the enemy
out. Timeus stammered through tears, his eyes ablaze.
You even dont
know yourself. Cora smiled.
What I must to do
to know myself? Timeus asked.
You must find your
love.
Love? But what the
love you speaking about?
I speak about love
of your life. The only thing that makes life to be lived, and fight to be won.
But where I can
find it?
In your heart.
My heart is empty.
Fill it.
How?
Time will show.
And now just to dry your tears go to hunt and bring me whatever you like for
the dinner.
All right, mother.
I will think about your words. Im not afraid of my future. Lets hope well be
worthy of father.
So get on your
white horse and go to the forest.
Timeus snatched the
bow and quiver and went to stable yard. And the next moment he was riding from
the castle.
Timeus was unhappy
with hunting this day, only three arrows left in his quiver and he had no game
at all. He missed every shot from beginning. Suddenly he had seen Nouvelius,
the messenger. It was good spirit that was telling news to kings and saint people.
Hear, Timeus, the
prince of The-Seven-Hills. I have to tell you where your fate waits you.
Nouvelius said.
I will obey every
word of yours.
Lavinia, queen of
Thank you,
Nouvelius.
I hope Ill help
you in your adventure.
Nouvelius
disappeared and Timeus get harried up his white horse to old altar.
2.2
As soon as Timeus
dismounted from horse, kneeled and said first words of great prayer God, who
is almighty and good, he saw beam of light descending from heaven on the old
altar. As beam touched stone of altar, Omigo, the good genius, appeared there
with all his glory.
Im glad to see
you, Timeus.
O, master of all
good spirits, tell me what to do. Timeus was full of joy and said first words
that came to his heart.
Take this sword
and apple of ruby color.
Thank you, Omigo.
But what to do with them?
This apple for
charmed princess you will meet soon. And this sword that made from golden
lightning will help you fight any enemy you can encounter in your life. If you
bless with this sword any weapon of your friends it will receive part of its
power enough to help you.
But where I must
go?
Say fare well to
your mother and hit the road to Itania and then to Labion island.
What I must do
there.
Help to princess
Carmille, she was charmed by Elizora.
Who is Elizora?
She is servant of
Nemigo, the evil genius. She charmed three princesses. The all charms must be
broken if you want to find your love.
I will try.
God help you
Omigo said and ascended in the beam of light to the heaven.
2.3
Cora met her son
before gates of castle.
What happened?
She asked when saw him smiling.
I have seen Omigo
and Nouvelius.
What did they
say?
I must go for long
journey.
Why?
They explained me
how to find my love.
O, Savior, you
dont forget us!
Fare well, mother,
and bless me.
God bless you, my
son, you will be always in my prayers.
Timeus bent on his
saddle and kissed his mother cheek.
I will be worthy
of my father. He said.
I believe you.
Cora said through the tears of gratitude to God and His will.
2.4
Just before the
dusk to set in Timeus saw knight sleeping under apple tree with black horse
pasturing near him.
Hey, you. Timeus
said loudly to sleeping knight who instantly woke up, jumped to his feet and
raised his sword.
Who are you?
Knight asked.
Im prince in
search of his love.
And I guess you
have name.
Yes. Im Timeus
from The-Seven-Hills.
Im knight
Fluctuantius. Where are you heading?
Now to Itania, but
finally to Labion island to save and marry queen Lavinia.
Then I offer the
duel, for Im heading to save Lavinia, too.
Why?
I once was in love
with her, and I thought that to be her king is worthy wage for her freedom.
So lets fight for
her. Timeus said, dismounted and brought out his miraculous sword.
It will be
difficult for you because Im good fighter. Fluctuantius teased raising from
the ground his massive shield.
We will see.
Timeus said and broke shield of Fluctuantius to smithereens with one stroke.
Where you learn to
fight, Your Highness? Knight asked.
So if you dont
mind Lavinia is mine. But if were friends now lets travel together. There
will be more wonders to see. Timeus gave his hand to defeated knight.
I will be only too
glad. Fluctuantius shook hand of prince.
So come on and hit
the road? Timeus asked his new friend.
Agreed, Your
Highness, knight answered.
3.1
Hieroglyph came to dark
I feel troubles to come,
Hieroglyph said.
What troubles? Elizora
asked.
We conquered three kingdoms
and I wait that someone will come and take them from us.
Just calm down, Elizora
whispered.
What do you want to do?
We will ask Nemigo.
All right.
Elizora took her sphere in
hands and mumbled old conjuration. Room was in a moment alive with colors.
Im glad to see you. Nemigo
began.
I feel very, very troubled.
Hieroglyph confessed.
And you are right. Prince
Timeus and his new friend knight Fluctuantius on their way here.
What they want.
They want to free Lavinia and
destroy your power over conquered kingdoms.
What should we do?
Ill help you.
How?
Ill put the river of perfume
on their way to stop them for some time to confuse their plans.
And what well do next?
Be prepared for battle with
them.
Yes, but they have powerful
weapon.
Thank you, master. Elizora
said.
It will be tough business to
fight them down. Nemigo roared and disappeared.
3.2
At the midday Timeus and Fluctuantius
sensed the strong and pleasant smell from ahead of them. Soon to their eyes
opened beautiful river that was emitting this smell.
What a marvel! Fluctuantius
exclaimed.
I think it is not marvel but
some sort of charms. Timeus corrected him.
Why?
Because no map in my library
back home have a sign of perfume river.
We can build great kingdom
here just by selling this stuff to people who do not wash themselves with honey
essence.
Dont stick to that
nonsense. Timeus was firm with his point of view.
Fluctuantius ladled out some
perfume in his helmet from the river.
Its quite a fortune to find
this fabulous place. With little of investment Ill be most rich man on earth
in a moment, knight wondered.
Wait. I must to pray. Timeus
kneeled and began silently to pray. In that very moment river was gone in
sparkles and whirls leaving bad odor.
What is it? Fluctuantius
asked.
Now spells are broken and we
can go further.
So you destroyed it?
Fluctuantius could not believe to his eyes.
Yes. Its our mission to
struggle with magic.
Good mission, my dear friend.
I never knew that simple prayer would be so strong.
Yes, if its honest prayer to
God. So go on.
They mounted their horses and
by the evening they were at the gates of castle of princess Carmille, ruler of
Itania.
3.3
Prince Timeus of
The-Seven-Hills and his honorable companion knight Fluctuantius. Dinario, the
butler of princess Carmille, announced.
Thanks a lot, dear. Lead them
in. Carmille echoed from her divan of cushions.
When two travelers came in
they sat down at the feet of princess, as etiquette of those times requested.
So you are my guests. What I
can do for you? Young Carmille asked them.
I heard you were charmed by
Elizora. Timeus began.
It is very possible.
Why?
I was always perfect gourmet.
And I always would read every dish or wine like a book. Now since Elizora
visited me I can nothing of this.
Then take this. Timeus gave
her apple of ruby color.
What I have to do?
Just eat it and well see.
When Carmille ate apple her
eyes suddenly cleared from fog of spells.
I can say that this apple was
from Heavens, Carmille pronounced after short meditation. It was from grove
where heavenly birds sing and lion of fire guards them.
So your gift is back? Timeus
asked.
Yes, I think it is back
completely.
So we can go? Timeus said
rising to his feet.
O, please, dont go. Ill set
up great feast to honor you.
Im sorry, but I must leave
you. Timeus apologized.
I will remain here.
Fluctuantius said.
O, how it is good of you.
Carmille kissed cheek of Fluctuantius.
So good bye. Timeus left
3.4
In the midnight Fluctuantius caught
up with Timeus.
Why had you left her? Prince
asked him.
Its very hard to sit at the
table with girl who constantly reading every dish and wine like a book.
Tough experience?
Awfully tough.
So lets go on.
Thank you, Timeus.
3.5
Dear, Malvenuto. Hieroglyph
began.
What I can do for you, my
master? Eunuch asked.
I think we must extort the
vow out of Lavinia that she will never marry no one.
I think it is right move.
So go to her and do it.
In a few minutes Malvenuto,
the eunuch, was in a chamber of Lavinia.
My master claims the vow not
to marry no one from you. He said to Lavinia.
Dont listen to them, Your
Majesty, Nadine implored her queen.
Why just not to obey?
Lavinia asked her.
The world is full of brave
and honest people. And I believe someone will help us to be free again and your
kingdom will be returned to you, eyes of Nadine were in tears.
So we turn down you offer,
Lavinia said to Malvenuto.
Youll regret it, eunuch
said and went off.
O, my dear father, if you
were with me, I had nothing of these troublesome misfortunes.
Lets pray to your father. He
is saint and will help us, Nadine proposed.
So if we have nothing to do
but prayer, pray with me and well see what is to come.
After short time of prayers
Lavinia fell asleep. She saw her father in her dream.
I found for you perfect
groom, he said.
Who is he? Lavinia asked
him.
Prince Timeus. Talantus
responded.
But where is he.
I hope you will meet him in
short time.
Im afraid its impossible.
All is possible for true
loving heart. Talantus kissed his daughters forehead and dream was off.
4.1
Timeus and
Fluctuantius were sleeping under old oak after long trip through the wilderness
when suddenly both got awake with sound of golden trumpet of Nouvelius.
Good messenger!
Timeus shouted with boyish joy jumping to his feet and then kneeling before
good spirit.
I have two good
news for you.
What news?
Fluctuantius asked who was very sleepy. Knight was unaccustomed to talking with
spirits and did not know how to behave.
The first is about
apparition of king Talantus to his daughter in her night dream. King approved
of union of Timeus and Lavinia.
Thank you
Nouvelius, but what the next? Timeus could not fight down his agitation.
Do you see this
mountain? On the top of it is situated ancient altar where you are both to meet
in short time Omigo. He is about to give you new gifts from Heavens.
Thank you, dear
messenger, Timeus said and Nouvelius was off.
4.2
It took whole hour to climb on the top of the
mountain pointed by Nouvelius. But after prince and knight kneeled before this
altar beam of light came from above and when they raised their heads they could
see Omigo in all his glory.
Come to me,
Timeus, Omigo said.
What I can do for
you? Timeus asked approaching the altar.
Take this lyre and
amber apple. Apple will save one life, but lyre which is made of golden
lightening will save many lives.
Thank you, but
what I have to do? Holding new gifts Timeus asked.
You must
disenchant second princess and travel to Labion island.
What then?
You will see.
Omigo said and beam of light in which he appeared ascended to Heavens.
4.3
Hieroglyph barely slept
last night. He felt troubles surrounding him. He came to Elizora.
I feel too nervous
to rule my people. Im afraid of death coming.
Dont be coward. I
talked with Nemigo right off, he ordered me to build valley of precious stones
on the way of this men. Elizora smiled with her cold smile.
That must stop
them. Hieroglyph suddenly felt burden falling from his heart.
But not for long
time. This prince Timeus feels spells and is apt to break them. Eyes of
Elizora were cold and watching.
So what we are to
do? Hieroglyph was dismayed.
Just wait for
great battle.
To die?
Well see.
4.4
When Timeus and
Fluctuantius approached the valley of precious stones they saw strange light
spread above it. When valley finally was open to their eyes Fluctuantius said
Oh! and closed his mouth with his palm.
Were rich till
the end of our lives, knight said as soon as he could speak.
Dont be so
gullible. Timeus was already off his horse and kneeling to pray.
Dont, just
dont, Fluctuantius shouted.
But when Timeus
just said first words of prayer God, who is almighty and good valley
disappeared.
What have you
done? Knight was nearly in tears.
Spells are broken
so we can move on.
But we could
Just forget it,
Timeus said and got on his horse.
4.5
Prince Timeus and
knight Fluctuantius wait for your reception. Doratio, butler of princess
Oleria, pronounced.
How sweet of them!
Im always glad to see new nobleman in my castle. Are they philosophers?
I dont know, Your
Highness.
Bring them in my
chamber and we will see.
Good day,
princess, Timeus greeted her as he entered.
Just as you say.
Oleria was sort of coquette.
We came here to
help you, princess. Fluctuantius added.
If you want to
help me with my philosophy- dont bother, because since Elizora visited me I
have no inspiration.
What about this?
Timeus asked her giving her amber apple he received from Omigo.
Apple?
Just eat it.
Fluctuantius said.
No tricks? Oleria
felt strange premonition.
Just eat, knight
was unable to wait more for new miracle.
Oleria ate it and
spells dissolved in her eyes.
This day has two
wings. First of restoration of my glory as great philosopher and second of
great danger to my enemies. With this wings news about this day will fly around
my kingdom till the end of my life. Stop!
What?
Fluctuantius asked, he was always bored with this philosophic girl.
I have my
inspiration again.
Receive our
congratulations, Your Highness. Timeus was smiling because he guessed about
feelings of Fluctuantius.
We must leave
you. Fluctuantius was inpatient.
As you wish.
Oleria answered.
When they already
were far from her castle Timeus asked his friend.
You dont like
philosophy?
Only feminine
one, knight responded and then they laughed.
4.6
When Hieroglyph
heard about the last achievements of Timeus from Nemigo he called for
Malvenuto.
What I can do for
you? Eunuch asked his master.
You must force
Lavinia to kill herself.
But how?
You must to do it
or your dead! Hieroglyph cried and Malenuto kneeled before him and was gone.
When Eunuch came to
chamber of Lavinia Nadine sang old song of
Shut up, you
slave! He said to Nadine.
Are you afraid of
me singing, maid defied him.
Shut up!
What do you want?
Lavinia asked him.
You must kill
yourself with poison in this cup or Ill kill you myself.
But I dont want
to die.
Never mind, its
about time. He made few step to approach with cup in one hand and sword in
another but Nadine threw pitcher of oil at his feet. He slipped and fell on his
sword.
Whats all this?
Lavinia asked Nadine in tears.
I think he just
occasionally cut his throat.
5.1
When Timeus and Fluctuantius
came to Labion in the ship of fishermen Nouvelius met them on the shore.
You must follow me to nearest
forest.
To find Omigo? Fluctuantius
asked.
Yes, he will prepare you for
final battle.
So lead us, good messenger.
Timeus said, and they ran.
Beam of light already waited
for them.
I must give you something for
your love, Timeus, Omigo appeared in the light.
What?
This wedding ring which is
made of golden lightening. Girl that will wear this ring will love you till
this ring on her hand.
And if it is off her hand?
This depends on God and on
you. Be ready because monsters are coming.
Will we die? Fluctuantius
was hesitative.
Timeus, bless sword of your
friend with your sword to share your power. Omigo and Nouvelius said all
together.
Timeus did as they ordered.
This moment monsters of
Elizoras charms appeared from the forest. There were six warriors in human
shape and beast of six legs and six heads which breathed with fire.
For Gods sake, Fluctuantius
murmured in fear.
For Gods sake! Timeus
shouted and battle started.
It was no easy but in very
short time Fluctuantius understood how to kill warriors. When his sword came
through heart of one of them this warrior scattered with sparkles. The same
thing was with heads and legs of beast. When Timeus pierced them with the sword
there were sparkles and pierced member of beats vanished.
Finally battle was over. The
grass around Timeus and Fluctantius was burned with fire and sparkles of
monsters.
Now you have to go to
5.2
You must not kill me,
Hieroglyph cried when prince and knight came before him.
We dont want to kill you.
Timeus said.
So what do you want?
Freedom for Lavinia and
Nadine and exile for Elizora.
Can I trust you? Hieroglyph
could not believe to his ears.
Most certainly. Fluctuantius
assured him.
Then you, my servants, bring
to us best wine and meals I have in my castle, Hieroglyph said to his men.
And do invite Lavinia and
Nadine here. Timeus was insisting.
Agreed.
When Lavinia came, she was in
tears. The same was with Nadine.
So we are free? Lavinia
touched face of Timeus as in dream.
Absolutely. Fluctuantius was
happy no less than Timeus.
I want to sing new ode on
occasion of our victory. Timeus said and took his lyre.
My dear, Lavinia!- my heart
Will serve you till the end of
world.
This one among the mens
unheard
But Im no hero and no smart.
When youre be mine through
ages come
In life and death and after
No one will say Go-getter
About me, my dear chum.
When he sang and playing his
lyre ring that was attached on the thread to his sleeve flew away to feet of
Hieroglyph who took the ring and put it on his finger.
Thunder rumbled above them.
Hieroglyph took veil from his
face. And everybody could see girlish face. Then Hieroglyph took helmet down
and kneeled before Timeus.
Kind prince, my true name is
Honoria. I am daughter of late king Estimeus who was brother of king Talantus.
Uncle Lavinia whispered.
Elizora came to me and turned
me in chief of marine robbers. Labion is our kingdom and if youll marry me
youll be my king.
Very interesting, Nadine
whistled.
This very moment Timeus found
out that his ring was on finger of Honoria.
I will sing another song.
Timeus said and took his lyre.
Dream will come to you, my
sister.
Tired heart to sleep away
All its troubles, so to say
I wont be you mister.
When he finished Honoria was
fast asleep. Timeus took ring from her finger and gave it to Lavinia.
O, dear. Queen of
At this moment Honoria woke up
and saw that ring was her no more.
Im afraid I was in too great
hurry to offer myself to you, prince Timeus. Honoria was uneasy. I think I
love another man.
Whom? Fluctuantius asked.
You, my knight. Honoria was
even more uneasy.
Agreed. Lavinia, Nadine and
Timeus said at once.
Would be- its what I wanted
all my life. I say I heard about you, Honoria, but I was uncertain if youre
alive. Fluctuantius was blushing first time in his life.
Stop! Elizora shouted from
distant corner. No more of your nonsense, Timeus.
No more of your nonsense,
Elizora. Timeus raised his sword and lightening of pure gold came out of it
and hit breast of Elizora, in a moment she was gone in sparkles.
Who was she? Honoria asked.
Monster of spells of Nemingo.
His most beloved monster.
5.3
Then Timeus, Lavinia,
Fluctuantius and Honoria came down to altar in the yard of Honorias castle.
And when they kneeled before altar to pray, in profound silence beam of light
came from Heavens.
Now is time for great wedding
on the Earth. Do take your crowns. Omigo said and from Heavens came four
crowns which were made of golden lightening. This crown descended on heads of
Timeus, Lavinia, Fluctuantius and Honoria.
And you, Nadine, will be in
great glory one day, Omigo smiled. Your prince is to come.