The Knight Chronicles- Book 1: Guardians Of Magic

By Jennifer a Muscat

Jack and Suzie Knight are two seemingly ordinary teenage twins about to embark on an extraordinary adventure. In a hidden world filled with magic and mystery, they uncover a stunning truth - that they posses incredible powers beyond their wildest imagination. But their destiny holds even more surprises for t

• Language: English
• Publisher: J.A. Muscat
• Release date: Jun 17, 2023
• ISBN: 9780645853209

Book preview

Chapter One

Hidden Lies

Five years ago, from the present

"Mummy - those people over there are looking at us and staring," the nine-year-old boy with curious green eyes observed.

On the opposite side of the road, a short, plump woman in her late 60s with flaming red hair as bright as the sun conversed with the florist and spotted Helen. She began calling out her name, wildly waving her arms in the air, trying to capture her attention.

Helen! Helen! Wait up, luvvie! she hollered, leaving the florist behind and attempting to cross the road, almost slipping as she made her way over.

What a glorious Saturday mornin’ we’re having, sang out the Irish woman trying to catch her breath trailing behind them.

Helen came to a sudden halt, feeling her frustration beginning to rise. She smiled as she spoke, Good morning Mrs. McDougal, glancing at the red-faced woman who had applied too much makeup for a Saturday morning outing.

Oh, Darlin! - I’m so sorry to ‘ear about yer husband. He was a lovely man. It was an enormous shock to Dougie and me of his sudden passin’. What a horrible accident it was.... just horrible! she hammered on. He was just way too young. Too young indeed!

Helen scrutinized Mrs. McDougal, her blue eyes narrowing as she gathered her thoughts. She couldn’t help but fixate on her small pouty mouth that incessantly prattled on.

I’ve always told my Dougie that you ‘ave to be careful when drivin’ down these long country roads as people speed up and down them. Before you know it, they’re overtaking someone on the wrong side of the road and wham! They hit you! Mrs. McDougal exclaimed, waving her short, flabby arms almost comically as she spoke.

Yes, it’s true. You have to be careful, Helen confirmed in a shaky voice, looking at Mrs. McDougal with a frown.

Elen - Did they find out exactly how he crashed? interrogated Mrs. McDougal. There was no other car involved, so do yar think he tried to dodge a kangaroo or somethin’ and crashed into the tree?

Helen's chest weighed heavily as Mrs. McDougal's insensitive questions hit her hard. Her palms turned moist, and she struggled to swallow the lump in her throat. Memories of the last words she spoke to her husband before he left her side filled her mind. She had warned him not to revert to his previous ways, and now doubts and anxieties overwhelmed her as she suspected he might have lied to her. Nevertheless, she returned to the present and replied flatly. They said it was brake failure. There still investigating.

Oh, that’s just so sad–such a tragedy. Max was a lovely man. So how will you cope with raisin’ two lill’ ones by yourself? How old are the twins now? Mrs. McDougall pressed on.

Well, um - Jack and Suzie are now nine years old, and l have my parents to help me out when I’m rostered at the hospital. She said half-heartedly.

Oh, - they grow up so fast; I remember when my babies were only littl’ things, and now they’re all grown up with littl’ ones of their own. Her throat emitted a husky chuckle, resonating through the street.

Helen’s gaze fixated blankly on Mrs. McDougall. She couldn’t help but compare her mentally with an English Pug Dog. Despite the amusing thought, she redirected her attention back to the conversation and the sound of Mrs. McDougall’s annoying voice before finally responding to her remark.

Yes- they grow up so fast, Helen half smiled and looked at Jack with warmth. Pretending to look at her wristwatch, she quickly added, I’m sorry luv, I must rush off. I’ve got lots of things to do this morning, then l have to pick Suzie up from my girlfriend’s place before lunchtime.

Oh, okay, said Mrs McDougall. No worries. I still have a few things left to do myself, you know? And poor Dougie. He’s probably waiting for me outside the supermarket by now. I bet his lill’ bald head is burnin’ in the sun. I told him to wear his hat before he went out this mornin’, but he said he couldn’t find it. Silly ‘ole fool he is! Well, now ‘elen, if you need anythin’, just give me a holler – okay?

Helen thought, Yeah, right - don’t count on it! However, she responded politely, Thank you, Mrs. McDougal - I will.

As they continued to pass various shops down the street, Helen’s mind became burdened with thoughts of the past. She couldn’t shake the feeling her husband betrayed her, ultimately leading to his eventual death.

Stop it, Helen. You’re being ridiculous, she scolded herself. He promised he wouldn’t do it again, and you have to trust him. Brushing her blonde hair aside and clearing her mind, she continued along.

A tall, frail older man lost his balance while struggling to handle his walking frame and tumbled out of the shop Helen was passing. He collided with her, causing stale bread rolls to spill from his plastic shopping bag and scatter onto the surrounding pavement.

Oh, my gosh! –Helen ... I’m so sorry–You frightened me! the old man shrieked.

Oh, damn it!... Henry, are you okay? I’m so sorry. I didn’t see you. My mind was somewhere else. Helen fumbled around the pavement, picking up the bread rolls and wiping them clean. Henry, I feel so stupid. I’m happy to repay you for the damaged rolls!

Don’t be silly. The rolls are only to feed my pigeons, Henry laughed.

Feeling foolish and red-faced, Helen handed him the last bread roll.

You know, Helen–I’m glad we bumped into each other. I just wanted to say I’m sorry about Max’s tragic accident. When is the funeral? Me and the Mrs. would like to attend?

Well...um... It’s next Tuesday morning at Eleven o’clock at St Luke’s Church. Then there will be light refreshments at the church hall. Her voice trembled slightly.

Okay, me and the Mrs. will be there. Yah, know Helen... Max was a brilliant man. He was going places that one. I loved hearing about his adventures–um -I meant lectures. Fascinating stuff... his lectures. It took me back to when l was still in the game... I mean lecturing. Henry's voice quivered with unease as he attempted to communicate using coded language.

Helen raised her eyebrows suspiciously at him. I didn’t know you knew Max that way? –How did you meet him exactly?

Ah, let me see- it’s been quite a few years now, and the old noggin is not what it used to be. I first met him about six years ago at the Sydney Convention Centre and saw him every year after that, just before I retired last year. He was with other- er- lecturers. Such a shame he was such a good bloke! He did a lot of work for the community, yah know. More than he cared to admit. We will miss him.

Indeed, we will all deeply miss him, Helen said as she felt tears welling up. She quickly wiped them away with her hand and added, I apologize, but I must leave now, attempting to compose herself.

No worries, luv. If you need anything, please let us know. We have to stick together, us folks.

Us folks? Um -okay! Thank you, she called out without glancing, waved her hand, and continued.

Mummy–you seem upset; what’s wrong?

Helen sighed as she gazed at her young son’s innocent green eyes, filled with concern and wonder as they looked up at her. His head and brow were covered in tiny swirls of light brown curls that kept falling into his eyes. She gently tugged at one loop of hair and pushed it to the side of his forehead, but it immediately recoiled back into place.

It’s okay, dear, nothing to worry about. Mummies just got a headache, that’s all. Even though Helen reassured her son she was okay, she could not contain the sinking feeling of dread quickly coming over her.

Did he go back to his old ways? Helen thought to herself. Damn it, Max! You promised me you’d stop. 

Chapter Two

The Mysterious Past

Present Day

Nestled within the centre of Salt Lake Flat's primary shopping district, precisely at 127 Market Street, a 19th-century federation-style shop proudly stands. This cherished establishment, along with its accompanying residence, has remained under the ownership of the Knight family for generations. With unwavering dedication, the family has safeguarded the building's original architectural charm, ensuring it retains its timeless heritage allure and remains impeccably well-maintained.

At the entrance of the family home stands a 6-foot-tall bronze statue of a Knight in Armour, proudly displaying a bold red Maltese Cross symbol on its shield. The Knight watches over the doorway like a vigilant sentinel. The wall clock chimes and echoes throughout the residence, announcing its nine p.m.

Grandpa Bill reaches for his box of matches. He strikes one against the side, filling the air with the smell of burning phosphorus that makes one’s nostrils water and tingle. He lights his brown smoking pipe, takes a few puffs, and blows the smoke into the air. Little wisps of grey smoke float above his granddaughter Suzie’s head, creating a slight halo of cloud. Suzie glares at Grandpa Bill with big green eyes, squinting in annoyance at the smoke.

Oh, Pops! When will you stop smoking that stinky pipe? The smell is burning my nose, and I will have an asthma attack in a minute! Suzie grumbled, fanning herself with her hand.

Grandpa Bill’s tired grey eyes twinkled as he grinned at Suzie. Sorry, missy, he remarked. I’ll blow the smoke away from your face next time.

Thanks, Suzie responded with a dry tone and a slight cough. She brushed her long, curly brown hair away from her face before pulling the cushions closer. Eventually, she settled into a cross-legged position on the lounge room floor.

Hey, Pops! interrupted Jack. My butt hurts on this darn footstool. It’s too hard!

Well, sit on the floor next to your sister - or better yet, sit on the couch. That would be the best place for you and your long dangly legs! Grandpa Bill grinned whole heartily.

URGH - I can’t... I need a cushion for my back, and Suzie has taken them all. Right now, she looks like a chicken sitting on a nest, waiting for her eggs to hatch! Jack sniggered.

 Well, maybe, you could sit on the couch without a cushion? Grandpa Bill replied, chewing on the tip of his pipe whilst studying Jack with his tired grey eyes.   

No, I can’t! - Your couch is so uncomfortable! I was wondering when you will buy a new one? This one has to be at least a hundred years old!

Jack, for heaven’s sake, stop whining and take a cushion. Suzie snapped, Here, take this one! She tossed a red cushion in his direction.

Jack caught it with speedy hands and gave out a hearty laugh. My butt thanks you. Now pass me over the blanket ‘cause my legs are cold. Smiling and grinning at her, looking like a Cheshire cat.

Suzie rolled her eyes at him and screwed up her nose. Jack moved onto the couch, sat down, casually crossed his legs and folded his arms.

Now that we are all settled and stop complaining about my furniture, can I start my story, please? Grandpa Bill sniffed impatiently.

Sorry, Pops, the twins said together.

Okay... Let me start by saying the adventures I’ve had in my lifetime that I’ve previously told you about all lead up to tonight’s thrilling adventure. Grandpa Bill shuffled around in his armchair and crossed his legs.

"I’ve been thinking about how I should tell you this part of the story for a while now, as it might be hard to swallow when you hear what I have to say. So I want you to keep an open mind, okay?

Okay. Jack and Suzie responded together.

So, kids, you are both twelve years old, right? It’s about time you learned the full truth of your family history. So, before I start, let me ask you this question…what are your thoughts on things we can’t explain?

Um, what kind of things? questioned Suzie, her curiosity rising.

Well, weird things, mysterious occurrences, perhaps verging on the supernatural? Grandpa Bill cleared his throat nervously.

 Oooh, I have one! I’d like to know how you did all those magic tricks back in the day? Suzie blurted out quickly.

Grandpa Bill smiled as he remembered his past working years, performing in live shows as a magician. "Yes, they were the good ole days. I used to love playing with magic like that. I wondered when that conversation would come up with you both!"

Huh? Jack said inquisitively. What conversation?

"You know...the magic conversation... and today is your lucky day for revealing my secrets. I must say, it is exciting to get into it that world once you know what you’re doing. But if you don’t know what you’re doing, let me tell you, it can be dangerous, and you can even get yourself killed!" Grandpa Bill said in a serious tone.

What are you talking about? I don’t understand why magic would be so dangerous? Nothing was real that you did, right? Suzie questioned.

Hey, Suz, Jack interrupted. Being a magician is scary stuff. Like pulling a rabbit out of your hat and making sure it doesn’t poop on you or your hair doesn’t catch on fire when you’re doing the fire tricks!

Suzie’s expression changed from puzzlement to amusement, and a smirk spread across her face.

Jack continued his mockery. Hey, Pops! Is that why you’re bald? Jack laughed so hard that he almost gave himself a stitch.

You are a cheeky bugger, aren’t you? Grandpa Bill chuckled and grinned. Just answer the question. It will make sense in a minute.

Suzie looked at Jack. A memory had come to her. "Hey Jack, do you remember the levitation act with the hidden wires?

Oh, I sure do! I remember it well. It was cool to watch! Jack said with glee.

What else do you remember? Suzie enquired. Any other weird things you could not explain?

Jack tapped his finger on his chin, thought momentarily, and flashed a cheeky smile. Well... I have seen a few zombies around in the past. Does that count? Jack chuckled.

Well, that depends on what they were doing? Grandpa Bill replied with half a sarcastic smile. But jokes aside, I’m talking about real-life situations?

 Jack expressed a puzzled look on his face. Besides all the magic tricks we’ve seen and can’t figure out... then... I’ve got nothing.

Okay, so how would you like to find out how I did all those tricks...hmm?

Are you for real? Heck -YES! the twins exclaimed together.

Well, good to hear. So, be open-minded about what I say to you next... okay?

Grandpa Bill drew a breath from his pipe, blowing the smoke out towards the side window.

Now... I would like to give you a bit of a history lesson here about my background, how we came about, and how we got here today.

Oh gheez Pops, you are not going to talk about how babies are born because we already know that! Jack interrupted.

Grandpa Bill grimaced, and his cheeks turned pink. He wiped his brow with the back of his hand, then stared hard at Jack. NO! - most certainly not! It’s not that kind of talk. I’ll leave that one to your mother; thank you!

It did not impress Suzie with her brother’s tomfoolery. Her eyes narrowed to slits as she glared at him. Jack, can you be quiet for two seconds and let Pops talk?

Well, he’s probably going to tell us another story about what stupid things he did as a kid and how much trouble he gave his dad. So, I don’t know what you are getting so excited about, said Jack impatiently.

No- it’s not another story like that... kind of, said Grandpa Bill, screwing up his face. This one was told to me by my father when l was about your age. It’s a family secret, so you can’t tell the entire world about it.

Okay- so what are you going to tell us? That we come from a line of Werewolves or Vampires or something dumb like that? Jack teased with a throaty laugh.

Grandpa Bill let out a frustrated sigh and shook his head. Suzie noticed her grandfather's growing irritation and intervened in her brother's unruly behaviour.

Listen! - if you don’t be quiet, I’m going to throw my shoe at you! scolded Suzie. You’re annoying the daylight out of me and upsetting Pops!

Oh, shut up and stop acting like you’re the boss of me - you’re only 10 mins older than I am - so leave me alone! Jack spat out.

Oh, yeah? Suzie’s eyes flashed with anger, her face reddening. Well, no one expected Mum to have twins, and you are not supposed to be here, so take that and stick it in your ear!

Oh, go flush yourself down the toilet! Jack snapped.

Grandpa Bill pressed his lips and shook his head. "Oh my gosh, look here, the both of you! Stop this nonsense talk, and let me tell my story before Grandma comes and stops me for good. She doesn’t want me to have the magic conversation with you, so let me get it out before she comes from upstairs- Okay!"

Grandpa Bill’s outburst surprised the twins. Sorry, Pops, they apologised simultaneously. Didn’t mean to upset you.

Gheez - I didn’t think this would be so hard. Grandpa Bill sighed and frowned. Feeling the frustration burning, he wiped his brow with his hand.

Okay... Grandpa Bill drew in a deep breath. Now, the only way I can say this is some of our ancestors had inherited a special gene. This gene gave them extraordinary powers.

Grandpa Bill paused and observed the look on his grandchildren’s faces. Jack had covered his mouth with his hand, holding back the laughter. His sister saw this and shook her head at him to be silent.

Yeah, I can see your faces, you know. It’s not like I haven’t seen that look before in my time. Grandpa Bill remarked.

Suzie responded before her brother could interrupt. So, what extraordinary powers are we talking about here?

Well, this is what my dad told me when I was just a boy, and his dad told him, and so forth.

Okay-y, Suzie remarked hesitantly.

 Back around the 15th century, a freakish accident happened to one of our ancestors.

Really? Do tell! Suzie exclaimed, her curiosity piqued as she eagerly awaited further details.

Our ancestor Kathleen Knight was pregnant with her first child. On this day, she was working on the family farm. She was out there all by herself. Out of nowhere, this lightning storm appeared before her and she had nowhere to hide.

Oh no! Then what happened? Suzie exclaimed, wriggling around in excitement.

Well, she wondered how to protect herself in the middle of nowhere. Now my great-great and I don’t know how many greats- grandmother was a clever woman–she was. She used one of the plough horses as a windbreak and tried to protect herself from the storm. The horse was terrified and trying to run away. Grandpa Bill explained.

"Kathleen was a tiny, thin lady who struggled to control this gigantic beast. Her hands were hurting and bleeding, and this crazy horse was going