| Merlin: Merlins crystal ball glistened in the shadowy room as images wavered within. He dipped his fingers in the bowl and flung across the room. Like tiny swords the droplets cast a blinding light as the darkness was slashed by the liquid blades. The fire drew back into the hearth and trembled. His power was all mighty and sure. He was the ruler of magic and all you see or will ever see. His eyes seared the mind like a branding iron burning away the evil within. Shadows quivered in his presence. The air hung heavy in repression. The light was his slave. My mind ached as I stood before him. The torment so long endured was now quelled by his mental touch. My sweet princess lay dormant under the wicked spell of Thaolese, evil transgressed to spiritual embodiment. Satan�s sister from the underside of the earth�s crust. Emberd eyes glowed and cast a streak of pain in all it fowled. My beauty smiled even in death. I vowed to rid the world of the evil mistress of darkness and reclaim my love or trade my soul if need be. She would I promise rise again and lead the people to happiness and peace. Evil doers beware. She comes and I by her side as protector and faithful friend. Her soft flesh may again caress mine and the stars shall wink their blessing as heaven commanded our passion. Outstretched arms reached for Merlins throat as she flew through the air. I snatched the goblet from his failing fingers and dashed it upon her body. Fire engulfed her as the stench of evil burned. Smoke rolled as it rose from her seared flesh and her screams echoed from the walls and down the stone hallway. Her look no more terrifying but terrified in itself as she slowly melted from sight. A gasp caught my ear and I saw my princess�s eyes flutter then open in wonder and surprise. The irritating acrid smoke soon vanished among the embers on the stone floor where evil once stood. The crystal ball now held a new image. The tears from her eyes made rain in the clear ball as she scratched its surface from inside. A prisoner now herself she refused to surrender to its hold. Merlin took the goblet from my hand and smiled. Then he placed a weak hand on my shoulder, turned and I watched him shuffle away then disappear. The earth was safe now. At least for the time being. But what new nightmare would show itself next time? I wonder. But I shall be on guard and my own sacrifice shall be at the ready when it does. Vision Quest � 2002 T Lovett |