Solitary days and humble nights

The seven knights and the red king (part 1)

It was a cool and crisp bright day when our story jumps into motion. The sun shimmered over the fields that were lined with flowers of every kind, shape, and scent. The bright angelic light seemed to illuminate the stone cold walls of the castle. The wind blew a tune and the flags danced and swayed to the beat. The dawn today was a crimson red, meaning those who saw it were blessed to have a good day. The servants of the castle woke up to this beautiful sight. One by one they all set out to perform their daily tasks and chores as such. The quiet songs of the birds echoed throughout the town. The bells had yet to chime their tune and awaken the villages. Such a peace could be heard, ever so gentle like a flower one might wish upon then let the wind carry it to the heavens above. If you were to hear such a glorious sound like this you would want it to last forever. Much to our sorrow however this sound was ended by the bells songs of greeting. Good morning, good morning they chime waking the people up. Wake up, wake up they continue to say. There is work to be done, they finish as their morning greetings came to an end. For like the Jester should say to his King, there is bad news that I bring, now let the legend begin. The king sat around his ever so round table. His hair was a bright red like that of fire. The king could grant gifts beyond that of normal humans. For this reason alone he was considered different from all those before him. His eyes were a warm hazel and his voice gentle yet firm. He stood taller and was stronger than most. Above all else he was merciful and kind. He ruled his kingdom with justice and showed mercy when it was needed while punishing those who deserved it. Under the king were seven Knights who were so loyal they would die without a moment's hesitation for their beloved king. To them the king was both a strong leader and a beloved friend. They were loyal to him before he gave them gifts. Each Knight had an amazing gift from their king. Each gift was different and not like the others. Each gift matched its user perfectly to his personality and needs. The first knight had armor of green and the gift of wings so he could fly. He could grow a pair of wings at will and they never faltered as he would soar. True to his personality he loved to fly because it set him free. The second knight had armor of white and the gift where his body was strong. He could run for days at a time and never need to stop. You could swing the strongest sword and not a scratch would grace his skin. True to his personality he would shield his comrades and defend his kingdom to the end. The third knight had armor of blue and the gift to see far beyond. His eyes could look and see miles away. The also could tell if someone was telling the truth. It is said they looked through your soul. With his eyes he could create illusions and see others memories. True to his personality he could calm anyone or anything with just a simple glance, his eyes held with them peace and security. The fourth knight had armor of purple and the gift to speak to nature. He could talk to the elements and animals alike. Each would obey his gentle command and bend to his will. Every creature of the forest was a friend from the dragon to a mouse, all creatures obeyed him. True to his personality he guided people to respect the forest and helped end conflicts over land. The fifth knight had armor of gray and the gift to bend sound. A single word from him if he wished would bring down walls of stone as well as bend swords of iron and steel. Every word he spoke was life or death literally. True to his personality he is naturally quiet, and not a single word he speaks is wasted. The sixth knight had armor of black and the gift to control the weather at anytime. Tied into his emotions he moved the cycle of weather around to protect the kingdom. True to his personality he was able to keep his emotions in check, as same as the weather. The seventh and final knight had armor of yellow and the gift to heal. He was the youngest out of all the Knights and hated violence. His gift ment the he could never age and any damage done to him would heal in an instant. He also could heal others at will. True to his personality he was gentle and never resorted to violence. Because of this gift others called him the beloved knight, because such a gift was truly incredible. Unlike the other Knights who roamed and attended to the kingdom the yellow knight preferred to stay at the red king's side. One day however the yellow knight was called out to help the others who were hurt. That day the serpent enchanter came before the king. My king he hissed in a voice that could make ones skin crawl. From what pit have you come from asked the king, his voice firm. What pit! Said The serpent enchanter. Why I was going around the many kingdoms of the earth looking for those to curse. I banished you long ago so tell me why have you come serpent? The king asked showing no fear while others surely would. Why I couldn't help noticing your seven Knights who are not here currently. What about them said the red king. Well they are not as loyal as the pretend to be. If fact I bet I can get them to deny or curse your name and even follow me instead said the crafty serpent enchanter. I know those who serve me and call them by name said the red king. But if you doubt this let us test them. The serpent smiled a crafty and wicked grin. Such faith you have you highness in these mere mortals. What do you have in mind? The serpent's words founded twisted as they came from his silver tongue. Test them however you see fit however you are not to take their life's, understood. The King's voice was that of a firm command. Your majesty would you be so kind as to go into a separate place I have set aside. The serpent said eyes gleaming. What's you plan inquired the red king. It's simple said the serpent. I will change form and run tell your Knights you have been quite injured and taken prisoner in their absence. Then we will see if they are able to reach you without falling into my temptations. The serpent grinned a toothy smile proud of his plan. The king though the plan over. Having droughts in you Knights the serpent spat arrogance clear in his voice. I never fought those who never fought me answered the king silencing the enchanter. Your Knights armor is sure to remain clean and have a shine when they have chosen said the serpent. The king glared at the enchanter making him quickly close his mouth. A man whose armor has no blemish or mark upon it has never been tested therefore he has never faced a challenge. With my armor however I believe it will hold under the deepest pressure. Let us begin then shall we said the serpent enchanter. The king arose from his throne and went over to the grand doorway that lead outside. He turned back once be warned he said with a glare that could set the heavens ablaze. If you should take the life of one of my Knights you will know a fate far worse than banishment or even death. The king stood firm and spoke with such authority that the enchanter jumped and fear overtook his eyes. The serpent nodded his head and the king went on. Remember this you snake unless someone gives themselves over to you your nothing. You have no power here before me and my followers who stand with me. After his words the red king left to the hidden spot. The enchanter prepared himself in the form of a simple servant who was as weak as a lamb. He ran through the town and forests until he had reached the place where the knight were. My lords he said in a frantic voice, while smirking on the inside. The green knight was the first to speak. How can we be of service he said in a kind tone. It's the king, the serpent said sounding more frantic and faking a concerned look. The blue knight seemed uneasy in his words. The serpent knew the blue Knights eyes were very strong indeed. So he put a spell on himself to shield him from outside forces. The blue knight could feel something was not right but dismissed the thought. What about the king? The yellow knight spoke up next in a worried tone. The king he has been attacked and badly injured in you absence. At this all the Knights stood alert and ready. He has been taken prisoner and I fear for his life. The Knight's eyes widened in shock. Where has he been taken, said the white knight trying to keep calm. I will show you the way, replied the servant. With that the seven Knights followed eagerly ready to save their king. How could this happen the purple knight asked the gray one. The gray knight shrugged in response to his brothers question. To the king all his Knights were brothers. He would tell them that they are their brothers keeper and as such they are to protect each other. The yellow knight seemed downcast more so than the other. What is wrong the black knight asked. If I would have only been there to fight alongside our king then he would be ok. The yellow knight seemed to blame himself, but unknown to him the others were blaming themselves too. None of us must blame ourselves, the blue knight said trying to lighten his brothers heavy hearts. The serpent lead them to a deep and twisted forest. No light reached the ground and thorns overtook the trees like walls. Through this forest is where I saw them take the king. The serpent knew that this forest was cursed. Once inside those who entered would be overtaken by the forests illusion. The only problem would be the blue knight who could see past normal and weak illusions. The forest will take care of the other said the enchanter to himself. I must deal with the blue knight myself. The Knights stepped to the forest's edge. Within this forest lies an ancient evil, said the blue knight. It was once a beautiful place called Eden but now it has been cursed. There are seven paths said the enchanter each of you should take one and see who can get to the king the fastest. They divided up and each took a path. So determined, said the serpent enchanter, this is going to be fun. The green knight took the first path of the seven sins. The forest seemed to move so there was no turning back for him. As he continued down the path he slowed his pace. The trees are much too thick. I can't fly the said to himself. His eyes scanned his surroundings carefully ready for any sign of danger. The silence was cut with a knife when a voice spoke up. Who are you, the voice said. The knight looked around and saw a opening in the path. Running ahead he came into the clearing in the trees. Next to an old willow tree stood a raven haired woman. Are you a knight, the woman asked him. The knight thought quickly to himself before responding. Well, well you are a knight, said the Raven woman not giving him the chance to respond. What is a knight like you doing in my forest, asked the woman walking towards the knight. The knight shifted uneasy by her actions. Getting a grip he stood firm. I don't have the time for this he thought to himself. If only I could fly but there are too many trees. Are you looking for something, the Raven said. Perhaps you are following that man now that was a sight, she said walking around the knight looking at his wings. Curious the knight spoke up and asked, what man came here before me. The woman smirked and answered, why before you came a man with red hair. She stopped at this and watched the green Knights reaction to her words. His eyes slightly widened, his pulse sped up, and his muscles stiffened ever so slightly. The woman laughed and traced his wing. Why do you follow him? Why follow this red king of yours? Her steps never seemed to falter and make no sound as she continued to walk. Your wings are strong, she said in a light tone. Why not trust in yourself instead. You know you're stronger than the other Knights and as such deserve to lead. You let the blue knight lead however you know you would be a better fit. Turn back and say the path ended then you can lead. Then you will be king. She said the last part just over a whisper leaning close so only he could here. Pushing her away the knight replied in a bold tone. In is written "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves". With this instantly the woman and willow disappeared as if they were made of mist and new path opened up in front of the green knight leading to the open sky. The white knight had taken the second path. If I run at full speed I will be able to react the king faster he said to himself. Up ahead of him an opening seemed to appear. Coming to a stop he stood before a willow tree. Why are you running? The knight turned around only to be greeted by a woman with Raven hair. Backing up in surprise he leaned beside the willow tree's trunk. The Raven smirked, do you want to know a secret, she said walking towards him. The knight did not respond. Over there in behind those vines is a chest full of gold, silver, and gems of all kinds. She pointed to the left of him. She walked up and spoke softly. You desire to have wealth beyond that of others? More and more is that what you seek? Take to your heart's content and never stop needing more. The knight shook his head and pushed her away. He replied in a firm tone. It is written "For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their desire, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. All things are lawful for me," but not all things are helpful. "All things are lawful for me," but I will not be enslaved by anything." In a blink of an eye the tree and woman were gone. The knight stumbled and looked around after regaining his balance. An opening had appeared beyond the trees leading to open sky. The black knight had taken the third path. Walking he looked for a way through the trees. What a pathetic sight, a voice said through the woods. It was followed by a mocking laugh. The black knight turned but he only saw a willow tree. You call yourself strong, the voice echoed around him. Yet because you were injured the yellow knight left the King's side. It's your fault the king was alone. The knight pulse Began to quicken at these words. Are you not angry can you not feel overwhelmed. His adrenaline began to kick in. If you are angry then speak up! Strike me down if you can. Your a weak fool who couldn't even protect the one who considers you a friend or even a brother! Your a disgrace to your king. You think you worthy? You are worthless! Silence the knight yelled. The voice then stopped. It is written "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that Is desired. Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end. A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." With that he looked and saw no willow tree and the voice had stopped. An opening had appeared and beyond it a clear sky. The purple knight had taken the fourth path. He carefully ran until a strange presence stopped him. My what power you have, a voice said. The purple knight looked up to see a woman standing next to a willow tree. Such power but does it satisfy you? She walked over and stood alongside him. You can ruled this world she said taking his hand. You want that power don't you. The king hold you back, saying to be gentle in the spirit. But he's not here is he. You want power than I can give it to you. Just embrace the serpent. The knight relishing who she was pushed her away. He said in a unshakable tone, it is written "Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions. An inheritance claimed too soon will not be blessed at the end." With that the woman and tree disappeared and an opening appeared before him and beyond that clear sky's. The gray knight had taken the fifth path. Running down the trail silently he continued onwards. Are you ok? He stopped after hearing this. Are you afraid? He remained silent. The raven haired woman appeared next to him placing her hand on his shoulder. He jumped slightly in surprise. Your powers are a curse a heavy burden. No, the knight replied softly, they are only a curse and burden to those who do not know how to use them. The woman frowned, but you are blinded and forced to remain still. If you had another gift then perhaps you could save the king faster. I'm willing to help you. Just embrace the serpent and you will trade gifts. Don't they look nicer than yours? The knight removed her hand from his shoulder. It is written, "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot." With this the woman faded away and an opening appeared which had clear sky's beyond it. The yellow knight had taken the sixth path into the forest. He ran as fast as possible. Out of all the Knights he felt the most responsible for this situation. Why are you still trying? Looking around he saw a tree blocking his path. Why are you still here? You can't fight like the others so why try? You should have stayed home. Just give up and rest. There's nothing more you can do. The knight stopped and stood before the tree. You shouldn't underestimate me for I know it is written, "We have to grasp the concept of working hard. There is always something to do, but sometimes we would rather procrastinate. When you're lazy not only do you suffer, but other people suffer as a result of it. Work to help others." With that the tree shattered into ash and the path ahead lead to open sky's. The blue knight had take the final seventh path. The serpent enchanter knew he was the leader of the seven Knights so he would be the hardest to deceive.