Preface

There is a thick cloud over head as Lord Aedan leads a small group of men on patrol. He stands in silence and look around. Looking for even a hint of anything out of sort. There is nothing just his men and himself in the silence.
His heart is racing not sure what, but something doesn't feel right. Never has the Whimsical Grove been so still. Not even a sprite dancing across the plum color flowers.
Not trying to alarm anyone the king signals Bartholomew, his second in command. Aedan walks through the crowd. Mouthing the words "stay here," with a finger to his lips. Joining Bart a short distance from the others.
Bart can tell something is wrong. It is that obvious with the look on Aedan's face. The kings eyes never stop scanning the woods.
"Sir, what is it?" Bart whispers . The king pulls him close. "Something is very wrong. We should not be here."
Aedan has a tormented stare on his face. Doubt and fear fill his ocean blue eyes. Ready to turn back and skip this area, just head back home. Sweat begins to form on his brow. Getting the attention of the others letting them know it is time to move.
When out of no where hundreds of men surround them. A tall figure emerges from the crowd. The brittle grass snaps under the heavy steps of his boots. Clothed in a long black cape.
"My, oh my, fellows look what we have here," he replies as he wrings his hands.
Aedan looks for away out. Any way, although there is no way out. They are surrounded on all sides.
"What is wrong? Leaving so soon. But the fun is just getting started." the man taunts. "Now don't look like that. You look like an animal that has been caged. So how about I do you a favor? I will make this very simple on you. Seeing that I am not a bad man. I will spare your men. If one condition is met."
Aedan roars in laughter at the thought of this man trying to negotiate with him. His lips tighten. "And just who are you...that you believe you have the power to make such an outlandish offer to me? Do you know who I am?"
"Forgive me your majesty pardon my lack of manners," he bows low to the ground. A smile grows on his lips as they curl upwards. Standing toe to toe with the king. "I do believe I have such power. As a matter of fact, may be even a little more than you can even fathom. You see I am on a mission from Lord Mahoney of Galemwyn. I imagine you know him. So once again you silly man. Let me try this again. The men, they will leave unharmed if one simple demand is met."
Aedan just glares at him. Without a word to reply.
"Really?" The man scoffs, "These men mean so little to you that you speak not a word. Wow! Oh hey your wife sure is looking beautiful these days and that darling daughter of your's Giness....
"Enough!" Aedan yells as his words echo in the woods. "What is it that you ask of me?"
"Easy. Your life for the safety of your precious kingdom."
Aedan looks at him as he takes a step back. His men reach for their weapons as they turn to face the man.
"Now, now, now. I don't really think you want to do that," the man says without turning. "Look around you." His men walk closer, numbers higher than they thought. "It would be so easy for anyone of them to kill you all on the spot. If that is what you want."
The kings men move their hands back. Feeling like a lamb about to meet the slaughter.
"Swear it," Aedan cries out. "Swear that my men and Aelasmore will be spared."
"Oh yes your majesty. I give you my word that your kingdom will be safe...
Grabbing the hilt of his sword and pierces the king's chest. Aedan groans in pain.
"For now at least. Seems there is a storm brewing. A new way of life. The Dawn of this war is soon to approach. I do thank you for your willingness to comply. Oh and I am the one of prophecy, the dark prince," His emerald green eyes flash as he laughs, a wicked laugh. Twisting the blade slowly as the kings eyes open wide hands reaching for the hand holding the sword. In one fluid motion it is removed. Leaving the king's lifeless body falling to the ground.....

"No! No! No!" I scream as I sit up in bed covered in a thick sweat. Heart racing as I remind myself it was only a dream. Just a nightmare that is all.