The Legend of Brokensword

By Christopher Earl

A young boy was hand picked by Merlin to help in his plot of dethroning and getting revenge against the rotten King Uther. As the scheme is executed things don't go according to plan. King Uther quickly acts to make the plan backfire by knighting the boy. King Uther rushes and gives the boy the name of Brokensword the knight. What does the future hold for this young knight? Will Merlin continue to pursue revenge on the King? Will the King ever pass down the throne? Find out all this and more in The Legend of Brokensword.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Mar 31, 2016
• ISBN: 9781365004087

Book preview

The Legend of Brokensword

The legend of Brokensword

Written and Cover Illustration by: Christopher Earl

Edited by:Brad Richmond and Christopher Earl

Copyright © 2016 by Christopher Earl

All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review or scholarly journal.

ISBN: 978-1-365-00408-7

Prologue

The Sword in the Stone

An ancient, run down tower stood alone just above an empty meadow. It was covered from top to bottom in moss, vines and cobwebs, miles from any civilization in the east forest of England. This tower had been abandoned for many, many years, but now a lonely and feeble wizard with a long beard, wearing thick Grey robes, and only carrying a small maroon bag, slowly made his way to the tower.

This isn't what I wanted, he mumbled to himself as he entered through the large door at the bottom of the tower and made his way up the crooked staircase in shambled steps.

I never thought I would return to this God forsaken tower. He continued mumbling to himself.

I would love to still have my old quarters at the castle… but I can’t go back to that brainless king. He stopped at the top of the stairs as he thought back to the time when he was an advisor to the king.

Merlin.... I need you to go to the Blacksmith and enchant my new sword. The last one had problems when I slashed with it. Make sure this new one can cut through anything!

Yes... right away your majesty.          

Reaching the top of the stairs, Merlin smiled remembering a time when this tower  was his own workshop for doing enchantments. Merlin had always enjoyed doing enchantments for the King, but what he loved most was doing spells for him. Merlin’s thoughts turned to one of his favorite memories.

Wait! ...Wait Merlin! ...do it while they're on the bridge!

But your majesty making the bridge disappear will send them to a watery doom!

Exactly Merlin, it will prevent the whole attack. Like you always say: tactical advantage wins over brute force, or brains over brawn.

Even though Merlin loved his life with the King, he could never go back. The King had changed over the years; he went from asking for help to ordering Merlin around like a slave. Merlin remembered some of the worst times.

Go get my armor…NO Merlin, with your magic! The king would whine.

Clean the battle tower, the knights and I had quite a party; Get us some drinks; Show that trick again…... not in a minute… NOW!

Merlin’s thoughts kept swirling like a maelstrom. He started remembering when he had gone to the king and tried to let him know what he was feeling.

Your majesty, I have come before you with a complaint. Merlin said trying to keep calm.

And what could be irritating you, my old friend? The King said, distracted. He was outside playing in the flowers, watching the butterflies flutter past.

Well sire, I don't like waiting on you hand and foot! Merlin yelled, so either you change the way you treat me or I shall leave this place and never return. 

Huh? What did you say? said the king still glancing away.

Well I said-- sire please I am trying to reason with you. Merlin tried to get the kings attention.

Oh sorry Merlin what were you rambling on about? The King said as he finally turned his head toward Merlin.

I would like it if you would treat me with a little more respect. Merlin stated honorably.

The King had already turned his head away. Just as he had before, the King was once again staring into the garden watching the butterflies dance through the sea of flowers. 

"You are not even listening to me! Well I warned you I would go… TELE-NOTH-DE-MOTI-VO" The courtyard echoed with the words from the spell and Merlin was gone from sight...

Merlin, now tired and angry at his own good memories, dropped his bag and sat in an old rocking chair that he had left behind a long time ago. He continued to drown himself in memories as he shot out sparks from his fingertips zapping down annoying flies. ZAP ZAP BOOM!

Merlin had spent many years with the king and had formed what Merlin thought was a grand friendship, only now to have it recently dawn on him how empty the King really was.

What about all of those good times? Merlin muttered to himself There was real fun and happiness with that heartless man.

All that Merlin wanted to do is plot and scheme with the king, figure out tactics, and tell a few jokes.

No! Merlin scolded himself I can't think of him anymore, there is no longer anything that make me happy about that man.

An image of the King with a wide grin appeared in his head.

I will wipe the stupid smirk off his face. Merlin cried out in spite as he flung himself out of his chair and swung his arm as if to throw a punch at the image in his mind.

Smoothing out his robe and sitting back down, Merlin took a minute to compose himself.

But how can I do it? he asked himself. Many spells and enchantments came to mind, but none would do him justice or get the revenge Merlin was seeking.

Maybe I could embarrass him by turning him into something, Merlin thought as he rocked vigorously alone in his tower. "No, he won't be King for very long. Once someone smart enough to rule the kingdom pulls that stupid sword from the stone, that person will become...wait!... that’s perfect".

The King had asked Merlin years ago to enchant a stone that would imprison a sword, so that when the time came he could place the tip of his best sword into the stone and who ever is able to pull it out may be King of England.

The sword placing ceremony is happening in just a few days and everyone will be there to see it and try to pull it out. However, who will pull out the sword? ... Anyone I want Merlin laughed to himself.

Merlin's grin grew larger as he remembered the rhyme that the King had told him. Only a wise and sturdy hand will ever rule this land.

Merlin decided to add to the Kings rhyme. And when the enchantment is no more the King’s pride will be bruised and sore.

After a good night’s rest, Merlin got ready to leave for the closest town so he could start looking for someone who would be the most disgraceful person as a ruler.

After breakfast and a short walk, Merlin stepped through the small gate and into the market street of the town

Someone stupid, someone strange, someone who will make the King wish he had never been so prideful and foolish, Merlin thought as he observed everyone he passed on the street. But this person must also be able to handle the responsibilities of a King as well as embarrass him.

"A blacksmith; a baker; a knight; a beggar... a beggar would be perfect, thought Merlin out loud in incomprehensible mumbles. Except maybe I should find someone who would be more responsible ".

A priest; an inn keeper; an old man... hmmm… an old man could be embarrassing, and responsible.  he would die soon after...Not old... young! ...youth, a little boy would show him! Merlin muttered excited about his logical decision.

A boy, weak, naive, and perfect to get the King thinking and rethinking all that he has done and a boy could learn to be a good responsible King. I can hear them now a boy is smarter and more worthy to be King?

In Merlin's head he was laugh uncontrollably over his idea. Now Merlin just needed to find some child which would normally be considered an unworthy King, and then it would really rattle the King’s cage.  Merlin started looking around, spotting a child or two fooling around in the road. Merlin tried to get the attention of the children by waving them over but the children did not seem to notice.

I need something to get their interest… Merlin started to ponder Or if I could get them to hold still for five seconds he thought slightly annoyed. "IM-MOO-VA-MOE-SHUN." He cried.

There was a quick "SIZZ" and bright flash. Everyone on the street was frozen in place, except for Merlin who was walking slowly through the crowds and examining each child. As Merlin noticed different features of the boys, it reminded him of the Kings features, and how he hated every little thing about him. Dark hair, deep eyes, squared chin. There was not one of them that did not remind him of the worthless King. Merlin undid his spell and slowly walked away; he wandered right into the nearby barracks and found himself watching a young squire spar with the knight training him.

Excuse me sir… Merlin shouted to the knight. May I have a moment to speak to this boy?

Yeah but don't take long, I am giving a lesson. snapped the knight as he backed away from the boy and scowled.

Merlin turned and faced the boy.

Have you ever wanted to be king?

The boy looked at him with a curious stare.

"No…" Replied the boy "and I will never want to be".

You never want to be? Merlin questioned back not seeking an answer. But what if I told you I could make you the King?

The boy rolled his eyes and quickly responded. No, I would not like to be King; I only wish to be a knight! Now leave me alone! Go bother my brother he loves to pretend that he is the King!

Merlin was surprised at the boy's behavior and turned to the knight, who had a broad smile across his face.

Where can I find this boy's brother? Merlin urged with a glare in his eyes.

Oh, that little twig? You’ll find him in the north field with the rest of the twigs, somewhere in the trees.

Thank you. Merlin pushed by with some force, making his way to the north field. As he walked through the large gate of the barracks and entered into the field, he could only see an open space of grass before him and a group of trees in the distance.

Merlin, after a short walk, reached the group of trees and started looking for the boy. After sometime, he gave up on looking the regular way and he whipped out a spell. "INVIZ-ABAL-I-HERB-I-TALIS."

After a quick "MEEP." sound the trees vanished from sight. A short, scrawny boy with messy blond hair, looking about five or six years old, and wearing ripped and ragged clothing, now hung in midair, clinging to the once visible branch.

Help! the boy managed to squeal.

What? ...help? Merlin questioned. Why do you need help?

I...I can't s...s...see the tree anymore, s… so I can‘t climb down. The boy quivered.

Why would you need to see the tree to climb down? Merlin calmly questioned.

I need to see where I am going, or I might fall. the boy stated as if it were obvious.

No you don't, you just need to close your eyes. Merlin countered.

Close my eyes? the boy asked with fear, I won't be able to see anything at all.

Exactly, Merlin pointed out with a laugh If you can't see anything your other senses will be stronger and you could easily feel your way back down the tree.

The boy stayed frozen, clinging to the branch.

I will be here to catch you if you start to fall. Merlin reaffirmed him.

The boy closed his eyes and slowly made his way down the tree, and with no help from Merlin, he made it safely to the ground.

Merlin smiled and held out his hand. My name is Merlin.

The boy took his hand and shook it without saying a word.

And what is your name lad? Merlin asked politely

How do you know so much? The boy rudely changed the subject.

Merlin flinched at the sudden question. Well, I know so much because I am a wizard.

The boy glared at him when he realized who was responsible. So you did this to all the trees then?

Why yes, it’s one of my more useful spells. Merlin bragged.

Oh well I didn't like it, your magic should do things that don't put others in danger. the boy stated angrily.

I didn't mean to put you in any danger what so ever. Merlin dodged the blame

I still don't like it and I don't like you. the boy stated bluntly, as he started to run off.  After a low thump, the boy tumbled to the ground.

Ouch. the boy said rubbing his head.

Merlin quickly stepped in and helped the boy up. "Sorry boy let me take off the spell- VIZ-ABAL-I-TALIS."

"PEEM." echoed across the yard and the trees became visible again. The boy shook off what had just happened and ran off

Wait! Merlin called out I want to make you King!

As the boy rounded the many trees, Merlin started to think that no one unworthy of being King even wanted to be King. Merlin slowly made his way out of the trees when he noticed the same young lad sitting on the grass outside of the wood.

Merlin started to pass the boy with a quicker stride when the boy got to his feet

What did you say about making me king back there? the boy looked curious

I am just looking for someone to be king and I was going to choose you. Merlin informed him.

How would you do that? the boy asked sounding intrigued.

"Have you heard of the sword in the stone?" Merlin sang boasting of his idea.

Yes, I heard that the King is putting a sword in the stone. The boy's face brightened with a smile.

The King thinks that no one else in the land would be capable of being king so he told me to put an enchantment on the stone that will hold the sword, Merlin boasted again. And the best part is that I can disenchant it whenever I would like Merlin’s joy showed on his face. So if you want to be King then I can make it happen.

The boy started to smile as the information sunk in.

Merlin realized he knew nothing of the boy. How old are you boy?

I am eight years old, The boy said hesitantly.

Perfect, do you want to be king? Merlin asked with a wink.

Yes I do, The boy said as he leaped to his feet.

Good, come with me and we shall make you king. Merlin chuckled.

They started on their way to Merlin’s tower in the east forest. Everyone in town was staring as the two passed by at a happy pace.

Where exactly are you taking me? asked the boy nervously.

I am taking you to my tower, Merlin stated.

And where is that? the boys smile faded.

In the east forest Merlin answered with a smile.

We are going to the east forest and we are walking? Shouldn’t we go on horseback or something? The boy didn’t hesitate to ask.

"W...w...well we should but I don't have any horses and I don't think it’s a good idea to teleport… even I got sick my first time." Merlin wrung his hands a little.

You can teleport? Let’s do that! Yelled the boy excitedly.

Merlin agreed with the boy, it would be nice to teleport and not have to walk but the boy doesn‘t know what he is getting himself into.

Now I hope you understand, if we teleport you will feel nauseous afterwards Merlin warned.

Hey I don't care, let’s do it, The boy nearly ordered.

Merlin rolled his eyes at the fact that this boy was already acting like he was King, which worried him. Merlin pulled his now sweaty hands apart and began to look around. He noticed everyone looking at the two of them.

Lets get out of sight first, Merlin said while pointing toward an alley way. The boy stumbled along beside Merlin as they rounded a corner into an alley.

Okay, now I need you to hold completely still, I would hate to find you missing an arm or a leg once we arrive at the tower.

Okay... I will hold still, the boy said nervously as he gulped.

"TELE-NOTH-DE-MOTI-VO."

There was a quick flash and a whirr and the pair vanished instantly. Merlin had never taken a passenger before and the teleport was taking much longer than normal. Merlin had also never opened his eyes in a teleport because it usually ends directly after it starts. Merlin opened his eyes and started looking around. Everything was stretched long and tall and he could see both the town and his tower stretched behind them, he quickly shut his eyes and suddenly heard a "POP POP." which signaled the finish of the teleport.

Well that wasn't so bad, was it? Merlin asked optimistically.

The boy was trembling and staring at his hands.

Are you okay? Merlin asked as he waved his hand in front of the boy's face. The boy blinked and fell to the floor into a sitting position, still trembling. Merlin stepped back and looked around his neglected tower only to see his small bag sitting in the middle of the room next to the old rocking chair; he realized that everything was still packed.

"ANI-MATE-DE-BAG."

A sudden "BING." sound rang through the tower and the bag with its brass handles began to bounce up and down.

Unpack Merlin ordered in a clear voice. The blankets first, he added promptly

The bag began to move toward Merlin and in a vomiting motion spewed out some blankets into Merlin's arms, then continued moving throughout the tower silently regurgitating its packed innards.

Merlin carefully unfolded a blanket and surrounded the boy in it.

It looks like the teleport left you in a bit of a shock. Merlin ruffled the boy’s hair.

Wow...that looked so weird, and it felt like I was being pulled in all directions, the boy replied, rather confused.

Are you feeling okay? Merlin asked with care.

Sure, I feel fine. the boy assured him. He kept his eyes fixed on the bag that was moving about the room, stretching wide and spitting out couches, beds, tables, and chairs.

So that is how you pack and unpack? The boy smiled and pointed toward the bag.

Yes, that is how I pack and unpack Merlin echoed. The difficult part was to get the bag to respect me. After that it became easy.

Respect you? asked the boy in all curiosity.

Of course, once it is animated it has a mind of its own, and it won't do anything you tell it to, unless it finds respect for you. That is how it works with most humans too.

The boy sat there with a funny look on his face. Merlin noticed the odd gesture and patted the boy on the back, hard. The boy gagged for a moment but held back his stomach.

Merlin... I can call you Merlin right? The boy asked.

Yes, you may call me by my name. Merlin allowed.

Oh...how am I supposed to be king if I am not respected?

Ah... you see lad, no one in the kingdom can pull that sword from the stone.

Not even me?

Nope. Not until I disenchant the stone, then whoever pulls that sword will gain instant respect and will be crowned King.

People will respect me because I did something that they couldn't?

Yes and it’s a good thing too, because a King without respect of his people is just a man with a title who can't manage his own kingdom. Merlin said glancing away from the boy to see if the bag had finished unpacking.

Oh good Merlin said while making his way to the pot now sitting next to the fireplace. Are you hungry?

The boy looked up in surprise sure he replied. Can you cook?

Of course I can cook. Everyone can cook, stated Merlin.

I can't the boy corrected.

Merlin smiled at the boy’s ignorance. Yes you can, you just haven't tried yet. Come over here boy.

Merlin spent the next few days teaching the boy how to cook, about politics, and how to be a respectful King. The sword placing ceremony was now over and every man in the land had had his try at pulling the sword. Every unsuccessful pull made the task seem even more impossible than before. The sword was still fresh on everyone’s mind, only no one cared to try anymore. 

Before they left the tower, Merlin explained the timing to the boy one more time. You get to the sword, grab hold, count to ten, and then pull! The enchantment will be off by the time you pull. Got it?

The boy nodded signaling his understanding.

Merlin smiled proudly "Okay, hold still and we will leave…TELE-NOTH-DE-MOTI-VO."

"POP POP."

Merlin and the boy found themselves standing in an alleyway just outside the square, both able to see the hilt half of the sword sticking out of the stone.

Okay I will stay here and you go and become King. Merlin nudged the boy with the tip of his finger. The small boy turned and ran to the center of the square where he stood still for a moment, as he looked the sword over.

Merlin suddenly realized he could not remember the disenchantment he was going to use. "NETH-DE... no...KLEPT-UH...No...AH HA! DESTO-CLEM-EE-ALP-DEPA."

Merlin cast it just in time; the boy was just starting to pull the sword. Merlin was relieved until he noticed that the sword still did not move.

"DESTO-CLEM-EE-ALP-DEPA." Merlin repeated pointing to the sword.

The boy fell over backward but did not have the sword in his grasp. The boy quickly got up and started to pull again. The sword was sliding out of the stone but had stopped at the tip. The boy turned and looked at Merlin completely baffled. Merlin signaled to pull harder and the boy tried again. The sword just did not want to move any farther. Merlin stepped out of the alley and walked over to the boy.

I did the spell. Merlin mumbled quietly. You should be able to just lift it out, but seeing that it won't come out, you need to give it all you've got.

Merlin turned and walked back to the alley. The boy looked around and stepped up onto the stone and started pulling franticly, he pulled this way and that way, one angle to another. After some time Merlin noticed that the sword was starting to come free. Merlin looked around the square and saw a few people watching the boy struggle with the sword but he needed a crowd of people to see him when he pulled it from the stone.

Pull that sword right out boy, you almost have it! Merlin yelled in a different voice and accent than his own.

Many more turned and stopped what they were doing to watch the boy struggle with the almost free sword. The boy, getting very nervous, started pulling harder. There was a loud crack and a scrape of metal as the sword came free, the crowd of people cheered and surrounded the boy and carried him off to show the king that there was a new one to be crowned.

Merlin waited until the crowd of people had left and then he approached the empty stone. Merlin whispered quietly to himself. Vengeance is swee-... Merlin’s mouth stopped moving and he knelt down next to the stone to examine it closely. Merlin was struck with surprise to find a small fragment of the sword still in the stone. The sword had broken near the tip and had split down the middle at an angle leaving behind a single shard of the sword. Merlin got to his feet and mumbled a quick spell before he disappeared.

"POP POP."

Merlin was now standing behind a huge mob of people in the King’s throne room at the Kings castle. The boy had already handed the King the sword, and the King was looking the sword over to