The Sixth Knight

The people were excited and the city had an air of festivity. The King had opened up his largesse and the streets were crowded with gaily colored stalls overflowing with food and drink, triumphant banners and victory scarves. The King was throwing a party, and everyone was invited.

This was how the King always celebrated the beginning of The Dragon Quest. The Quest Knight was feted and honored. The people cheered him, hollering his name, toasting his bravery. It was like the Quest was already over rather than just beginning. And that was just the way the King wanted it. It was important for him that his people celebrate the man who would risk all for the safety of the Kingdom. It was important to him that the knight be made to feel like the most loved man in the land and a true hero. It was important to him because he knew very well that the man might not ever come back.

With a motion of the King's hand, a trumpet suddenly sounded and the rumble of voices and laughter quieted down. King Emry raised his arms high into the air and his subjects turned toward his palace balcony and awaited his proclamation. "My People!" he cried out, "Today we send forth a most brave and courageous man, Sir Jedediah of the House Collins, to seek out and explore the lair of that most terrible Dragon! He will follow in the footsteps of those five valorous knights who went before him and sadly have not returned. He goes with all our hopes and our prayers. And what is more, this time he shall go with friends. To aid him in his quest, he shall have benefit of his squire. And I have also ordered that a member of the White Hand shall accompany him. The tyranny of the vile Dragon shall come to an end, of that I promise you. For with men like Sir Jed how can we fail!"

The crowd erupted in cheers and thunderous applause. The King then glanced backwards and nodded. Sir Jed quickly stepped forward and joined the King on the balcony. The knight waved out at the crowds below. At his side was his squire Rafael, the young man's face grinning from ear to ear. And behind Jed stood the mage, Valen. These three then, would be the ones to continue the Quest. And as the King waved at the crowds gathered before him, he prayed that the gods would guide these three to victory or at the very least have mercy on their souls.

1. A Parting Toast

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