The Kingdom of Dreams

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THE KINGDOM OF DREAMS(The Black Army, vol.1)

Santiago Garca-Clairac, 2006

We live in two worlds.In reality we build our character,

while in the realm of dreamsdiscover the best of ourselves.

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Archimedes, THE SAGE OF THE WISE

The first page of the Arthurian legend Adragn, the braveknight who led an incredible army and founded a legendarykingdom of justice, free from war, tyranny and witchcraft,was written one night while riding twenty soldiers raidedthe main street Drcamont village.Wrapped in thick layers of cloth, armed to the teeth, armedwith chain mail, helmets and shields, these horsemen cameto fulfill a mission which could only be done under cover of

darkness, when carried out major atrocities.The muddy and puddled streets were deserted. The dogsthat crossed their path fled in silence, as if sensing danger.

The rats, not to bump into them, chose to leave the remainsof rotting food and shelter in their dark holes. The smell ofdeath accompanied them.

The soldiers knew that despite his secrecy, the inhabitantsof the Drcamont insignificant people peering through

windows and doors ajar, but they were so sure of theirpower they were not concerned.Having come this far without being detected by Beniciusking's men, on whose land had entered illegally, had beenthe hardest part of the job. They were aware that their liveswere in danger, but the pay and oaths of allegianceincluding such risks.Meanwhile, the humble peasants Drcamont chose to

ignore his presence. They had learned it was best not torespond to them. So they asked to heaven, in this dark anddirty night did not bode well, back out as soon as possible inthe region.- Will soon return home, "The captain informed themCromell. If all goes well there will be a nice reward for all.Meanwhile, on the outskirts of the village, near thecemetery, inside an old tower, was a great activity.

Safe from prying eyes, and with the windows closed to

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prevent the candlelight attract attention, aides Archimedes,the alchemist, working frantically.Arturo, his young disciple, poured a viscous black liquid,which seemed to have its own life within a small glass

bottle, in which his master steel dipped the pen, the inkimpregnated and started writing about tanning yellowedparchment which lay before him.With steady and delicate with beautiful Archimedes drewletters distributed in straight lines and formed aharmonious, orderly and full of mystery. A text encryptionthat no mortal could decipher, since it was written in asecret language invented by Archimedes himself, like all

alchemists used to do when they wanted to protect theirinventions.Suddenly the silence was broken and the night was filledwith sounds alarming: the fluttering of several birds takingflight hurriedly hoofs hitting the ground pavement, shoutingorders and directs that the soldiers ...From that moment, chaos gripped the dark before thetower's inhabitants had time to react, the disturbing noiseof armor, swords and shields colliding violently, made themrealize that the danger swept over they. The sound of steelwas always dangerous.Archimedes stopped writing when the cabinet door wasflung open, and a wave of cold air entered, accompanied byseveral soldiers who threw grunting as they pushed and theassistants imprisoned.- Nobody move! Cromell roared the captain, his sword heldhigh and his face angrily. Eric met the Count ordersMorfidio!

The impulsive Arthur tried to prevent the entry of thesoldiers, not realizing that her age would not pose anyobstacle to those seasoned warriors, accustomed to fightingagainst all those who clashed with them, were told it was.- What are you doing? yelled taking a step toward theintruders, facing the captain, who already regarded himwith rage. You cant enter here! This place is sacred!

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Archimedes is the lab! It is under the protection of King ArchBenicius and is in their domain!

The sword of a soldier stood up, ready to strike, but apowerful voice stopped him at the last moment:

- Freeze! We do not come to kill anybody! Unless it takes ...Morfidio Count, who had just entered, saved the life of theboy with his timely order. The robust noble tousled hair andthick gray beard walked slowly to Archimedes, who watchedthe scene in silence, while gunmen remained on alert,ready to pounce at the first who dared to move.- Alchemist, is better than your men did not resist, "hewarned ominously. I know I have no patience.

- What is it, count? asked the sage, using a tone of defiancethat the present unsettled. What way is this going into thehouse of a man of peace? Are you doing these days toattack innocent people?- We know you do magic. We have received complaintsagainst you and your assistants. If the accusation isconfirmed, you will die at the stake.- Magic? Here the only magic we do is creating medicines toheal the sick, "replied sarcastically Archimedes.- I have heard rumors that you've made an importantdiscovery. Come with me to my castle and you will remainunder my guardianship.- I'm covered by Arch Benicius "said Archimedes. I'm notgoing anywhere!- You know that sooner or later confess your crime. Thissecret formula is so well hidden treachery Morfidiosentenced.- I have not made any discoveries worthy of the indictment...- That I will decide myself, evil alchemist. I will not allowyour invention fall into the wrong hands, "insisted Morfidio,watching attentively the ink that Archimedes had just used.

You try to conspire against me and thy lord, the kingBenicius ...- I did not conspire against anybody!

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--... and once you're under my guidance I explain all thedetails ... I see the inky pen is cool, "he said, holding herhand and shaking, dropping a few drops to the floor. Whatwere you writing?

- Although I told you, do not serve anything, "arguedArchimedes, in a vain attempt to make him desist. There isno evil or demonic discovery ... I'm not a witch or a sorcerer.I'm an alchemist!- My lord does not give any formula! Arthur roared, red withindignation.Cromell launched a powerful punch in the stomach of Arthurthat he fell to his knees, preventing him from finishing his

sentence. Morfidio, sure of himself, approached the sageand, after kicking a chair, he whispered, as whispering.- Do not tease me, traitor. If you insist on challenging me,you'll see all your servants, including this young brash,beheaded fall at your feet.Archimedes read in his eyes wild and realized that onlycount found an excuse to carry out his threat. Everyoneknew who was so bloodthirsty Morfidio like one of thosebeasts that came out at night to look for human flesh andthat every opportunity was good to satiate your appetite.- We prefer to die rather than bend them to your request!Arthur shouted from the floor. Archimedes to defend withmy life if necessary!- That can be fixed immediately, Morfidio boy said, holdingtight to Arturo, who still had difficulty breathing. Open youreyes, Archimedes, and see that I'm not playing!He unsheathed his dagger and drove it a quick movementin the stomach of Arthur, as coolly as if he were carving apiece of meat at a banquet.Archimedes watched in horror as the body of his assistantfell to the ground, making a strong noise.- This will show you that I'm serious! "Added the count,pointing with the tip of the bloody dagger. Now, if you can,save your life with drugs and think about the advantages ofhaving your secret. You're next!

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- You are a beast, Morfidio count! "Said Archimedes, as heembraced Arthur, plugging the wound, which bled profusely.From here I invoke the forces of good to your evil face! Thatthey give you what you deserve!

Count invader drew a sinister smile to make clear that nocurses to him. He was a man of action and always got whathe wanted.- On behalf of my authority, all this is seized! "He ordered.Soldiers, catch all the belongings of this man and him to thefortress!- Do not touch anything! Archimedes growled, seized withindignation. The worst of curses falling on those who dare to

move a single object!The soldiers remained quiet; fearing the threat ofArchimedes was met. Then Morfidio Eric stepped forward,and after knocking several objects with his sword, placedthe sharp point on the alchemist's throat and pushed to thelimit in which the steel could pierce the skin.- Insist that readily come to my castle. Unless you preferyour man to join.

The soldiers, seeing the boldness of his master, decided toobey the order and forced the servants to place allbelongings in carts.In short, the lab was empty and all the books and scrollsthat the alchemist had been completed along patiently forseveral months remained in the hands of the count. Theformulas of drugs and other discoveries had passed into thehands ambitious.For the first time, the alchemist Morfidio feared could be thesecret formula and a shiver ran through her body. Just tothink that such a thing could happen him shudder.- Kill the men! I do not want witnesses! Morfidio roared, ashe crossed the body of a servant with a long sword. Andthrew their bodies into the river!

The soldiers threw themselves on the other two assistants,who resisted even the skewered with sharp weapons andtheir lives ended in seconds. Terrified, the oldest servant

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tried to escape down the stairs to the outside, but Cromellstarted in pursuit, shouting and hurling threats. He returneda few seconds later, with the blade of the bloodstainedsword.

- He had this in the clothing, "he explained to his employer.It is a scroll.Morfidio unfolded the paper and watched him carefully.- Well, now we have another test for us!Four soldiers forced the scientist and his assistant woundedonto a car. They were treated harshly, forgetting that a manof peace was distressed by the violent situation that had

just experienced and a young wounded who had put his life

in danger to help his master.The warriors were worthy servants of a savage and cruelmaster did not stop at any obstacle to achieve their desires.Rats and dogs were right to depart from their path.- Returning to the castle. Its night and these lands aredangerous in the dark! "ordered the Comte Morfidio, payingattention to the howling savages who came to their earsfrom the darkness. Here and we have nothing to do ... Burn this

place! I do not want this left no trace of foul sorcery shrine!

Archimedes noted how several men, led by Captain Cromell, complied

with the order and set fire to the laboratory which had cost so much effort

to lift. He saw all his work was in flames and smoke turned into their eyes.

Outrage over the assault and murder that had just suffered plunged him in

absolute silence as the despair and anger grew within him.

Arthur Wise hugged and pressed hard on his wound, but could not prevent

tears in his eyes peered when the soldiers threw the bodies into the river of

his aides.

After the caravan set off for Castle Morfidio, leaving behind a plume of

smoke rising into the sky and mingled with the clouds that overcast.

No windows of nearby houses had been opened, no one had come to his aid

and street people, was in total darkness, as if in mourning. No one dared to

stand up to defend Morfidio Count the alchemist who on more than one

occasion, he saved the lives of many sick or injured.

While the convoy was leaving, a man of small stature, prominent eyes and

large ears, which had remained hidden in the dense forest nearby and had

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observed closely the scene, he mounted his horse and rode to the castle of

King Benicius.

Count Morfidio not imagines that his infamy was to trigger a series of

terrible events that would change history and create an extraordinary

legend.

THE MADMAN OF BOOKS

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MY NAME IS ARTURO ADRAGN, LIVE WITH MY FATHER INTHE FOUNDATION IN THE CITY OF FRENIX. WE ARE IN THETWENTY-FIRST CENTURY, IS A NORMAL DAY AND I HAVE TOGO TO THE INSTITUTE.

Every time I wake up in the morning, after sleeping soundly,I repeat the same sentence aloud to see where I am. Mydreams are so intense that I have trouble waking up and Ihave problems to place me in reality, my true reality.

Tonight I had a dream again full of extraordinaryadventures; with soldiers, medieval castles, wizards,alchemists ... Most worrisome is that these hallucinations

suffer so hard that I wake up exhausted, as if he hadactually lived. It's terrible ... I do not know what to avoid.Sometimes I think I'm going crazy. Maybe it is that whenyou are about to turns fourteen have paranoia that cantcontrol.While an uphill battle to keep my fantastic memories, I gointo the shower; I open the faucet and wait for warm waterto help me out from the world of fiction and on to the real.

The water helps me move from the middle Ages to thepresent.I look in the mirror and I see the dragon head that I havedrawn on the forehead between the eyebrows, is still inplace. Like those weird black patches, which are melted onmy skin, and decorate my cheeks?It's your fault I look like an eyesore and I feel different fromthe rest of the world. My classmates are responsible forreminding me every day. Like all the people I meet, whenthey see me, cant help but whisper: "Poor boy." And theworst thing I have to give the reason: my point is reallydepressing.- Hey, dragon-like greeting you every day. Are you okay? Donot you ever going to go?I'm doomed to be a freak all my life. I'm destined to livealone and apart from the rest of the people. The only peoplewho support me are my father and children living with us at

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the Foundation, my only friends.While I rub my cheek and my forehead with the hope thatthese fucking black spots are erased and disappear once inmy life, but I know it will not happen. I know you follow me

until my dying day. No doubt I will be a rare person toeveryone pointing fingers.Sometimes I think that should be in a circus. At least I wouldbe as normal. A kid who looks like a billboard, with the headof a dragon painted on his forehead, called the attention ofmany people who would be willing to pay to laugh heartily,as they do with the clowns and the ugly. Sure would bemore successful than the bearded lady and the elephant

man together.I have a tingling all over my body that does not clear and heis starting to get nervous. It takes several days to botherme, but if I keep scratching this way, sure I'll do some injury.It is strange but I feel that the spots have spread, they aremore numerous ... Now I come to the side of the cheek andthere are some on the nose. This goes from bad to worse!As I saw, I try to find a meaning to sleep tonight, but I cant.It's like a hieroglyph of my father collects these for yearsand is unable to translate. My dreams are insane I canteven share with anyone. The funny thing is that they alwaysappear the same characters, the same issues ... They arelike chapters of a fantastic book. But tonight was the worst.Until now it seemed a game, but things are complicated. Ihad never dreamed of something so shocking anddangerous.I take my backpack and open it to make sure I took what Iuse at school. Saco some books and I get what I thinkthey're going to need it. I make sure I have notebooks,pens, pencils and eraser.Pretty neat.Every morning, when I review, I like to imagine packing upto go traveling to some distant place, but I know it isimpossible fantasy. There are some things that bind me tothis city and I cant leave ... My father, the memory of my

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mother, the foundation, Shadow ... Maybe they are not toomany, but are very important, are the few things thatinterest me. Would give anything to get away from this lifeso bitter.

Before leaving I take the book I have on the bedside tableand I've finished reading. It is the story of King Arthur, myfavorite hero.Under the stairs slowly, and met Shadow, the assistant ofmy father, who rushes over me, like a whirlwind:- Shadow, what are you doing? I cry helplessly.But it ignores me and keeps going, as if chasingsomething...

- Damn rat! She exclaims, as beats on the floor with abroom. If I see you again I'll kill you!

The poor are unable to stop it and stops at the landing,absolutely exhausted. She leans against the wall and wipesthe sweat from his forehead.- More and more rats. We must do something, "he murmursas he tries to regain his breath. That bloody animal was

eating a manuscript of the tenth century. Luckily I arrived intime to prevent it.- Calm down, no big deal.- "Not that bad? Are you kidding? Do you think it is goodthat these bugs that eat books?- No, of course not. What I mean is that you should not wearwell.- When I saw the rat eating the scroll, I entered an anger

that ...- By the way, have you seen dad this morning?- It's in his office. He has gotten up early.- You okay?- Same as yesterday. I think it has improved, "he says.Moreover, he refuses to take medicine to cure it, so ...- I will visit him, to see if I can convince him.- Arturo, did you sleep well? Shadow asks, unexpectedly.

- Yes, well ... As always.A smile indicates that you have understood my message.

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Without saying anything more, retraced his steps, stairs.Shadow is like my second father, but sometimes I feel heunderstands me better. It is a special character.- Have a nice day, "I want to while away, dragging his

broom.I pause on the second floor and entered the main library.

There are large shelves full of extraordinary and uniquevolumes that we have collected many, many years. TheFoundation is an extraordinary library of books about theMiddle Ages. Here he has lived most of my life. This is myworld.I go to a shelf and put the book Arthur's in place. Before

leaving, I find one on the Queen Guinevere that I have readmany times, and I put it in my wallet. His story fascinatesme and I plan to write a novel with these characters ... in afew years.

Then I go into Dad's office. I see the bottom, bent over thelong wooden table, surrounded by books and paper, firmlyholding the pen, talking to him, or with the books, which isalmost the same. It looks horrible. It seems one of thosesages who appear in stories of fantasy, his hair disheveledand unshaven, fevered by their activity, as if there werenothing else in the world, unaware of what is happeningaround them.- Dad, how is you? "He asked, approaching.A little surprised by my presence, he lifts his head and looksat me- Arthur, son, what are you doing here so late?- Dad, is nearly nine ... It has dawned.As a child she had been caught doing something naughty,gets up and runs the big curtains of the window. A waterfallof white light that dazzles you come storming and obligeshim to protect her eyes.- I'm fine, son. Really.- Last night you had a fever. You should drink or worse.- Not to worry. I feel good. Besides, now I cant be sick, Imust finish this job ... I'm about to reach the end!

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Before leaving, I glanced at him and I understand that it hasdiverged from the real issues, which again is in themysterious world of letters, in the universe of words.Sometimes I think my father is from a book, which was born

in the office of a writer ... Or in an inkwell.- Ah, of course, soon is your birthday. Want a special gift?She asks when I'm closing the door.- Oh, no, it's like ... Anything ...I close and left him alone in his world.In the doorway, I find Mahani, wife of Mohammed, thedoorman, who is opening the wooden gate. Mahani is asmall, thin woman, who apparently has little strength, but

that despite the years, continues his work with the samerobustness as a young man. I have always secretly admiredit because I see something that reminds me of my mother.It is curious that evokes me someone who I have neverseen since mom died the same night of my arrival in thisworld. Mahani is, next to my father, the last person to seeher alive. And that causes me tremendous respect.Apart from what dad told me, I know my mother throughMahani, or rather, through the words of Mahani. She toldme everything I know about it. I have discovered someaspects of his personality and coincidences, it seems,existed between us.He says that somehow, my mother and I have a greatphysical resemblance. Our eyes have the same tinge ofmelancholy. I think it means that Mom and I have the samesuffering.- Hello, Mahani, good morning "greeting.- Are you leaving school?- Yes, and I'm a little late. Mahani, I saw that Dad is not verygood. I think he has a little fever, "I warn you.- Yes, Shadow has told me he had a bad day yesterday. Donot worry; I'll take care of him, "he says. Go alone. Thatwhile I'm here, nothing will happen bad. You know how it iswhen the date approaches ...- Thanks. What about Mohamed?

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- Has gone to the airport to pick up a new guest. I think it'san antique or something.- Ah, now, Mr. Strombo. Dad invited him to spend somedays in the Foundation. I think they'll do business.

- May you go well. The economic question is not verybuoyant recently-Mahani said. Hopefully this will help Mr.Strumbler get things fixed.- Strombo, Mahani, is Mr. Frank Strombo. And dont worryabout money, things will settle soon. I'm sure. Dad knowswhat he's doing.- Yes, and the bank also.- Are the bank? What bank?

- Oh, nothing, nothing ... Nonsense mine. Go on; go tocollege that I take care of your father. Have a good day.I look at Mahani awaiting a reply, but I did not heed his boxand enters singing an old song of his country. It is clear thatI will not get an answer on an issue that worries me: thebank is pushing my father?As always, the bustle of the street, I returned to the realityof the world and remind me that, behind the walls of theFoundation, there is an afterlife. That the world is muchwider than the building where I live, despite being the placewhere I feel safe.

THE PROTECTION OF COUNT

- Archimedes entered the apartment of Morfidio pushed bythree burly men, who almost threw him to the ground.

The Count, who had a glass of wine in hand, watched with acynical smile, from his great wooden chair, richly carved

and topped by his crest: a bear with a golden crown that

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held a sword between the claws, symbolizing the power offorce, only Morfidio belief.- Have you decided to speak out or you'd rather stay lockedup while your aide is dying? she asked, after taking a big

gulp of thick, dark brew.- Arthur is worse every day! I need medicine to cure! Youcan die!- Remember he sought death. Do not blame me for hismisfortune.- You are a scoundrel, Morfidio count! Archimedes shouted,outraged by the response of her abductor. Benicius Whenthe king hears about this, he'll ask bills! You pay your face

disgrace!- Do not worry about that and think of your skin. Iremember that there are serious allegations against you.

They say that these beasts that attack at night are theresult of your experiments, and that the wild dragons thatplague the region you've created.- I did not experiment with animals! I am dedicated toAlchemy, I'm not a magician!- Okay, I'll go to the point. If I do not confess your secretand I become a king immortal, your body will burn at thestake and scatter your ashes through the valley. No trace ofyou. Do you understand?- Do not scare me, Morfidio. I do not have anything that youcan become a powerful king.- Do not underestimate me, Archimedes. I insist that it's foryour own good, "said Eric Morfidio, brandishing a scroll.Explain precisely this discovery and give you the medicinesyou need to heal the boy. And leave you free. Otherwise, Iguarantee you will burn at the stake of witches!- I do not work for any power-hungry ruler, "saidArchimedes, crushing the count with his eyes. My effort is toother sages and alchemists take advantage of myknowledge and can help people. I do not want to miss whenI am dead.- Archimedes, the day of your death may be closer than you

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think Morfidio whispered, in an ominously veiled. I warn youthat you're exhausted my patience.

The wise man raised his hand and pointed to the cloudsthrough the window opening:

- All the curses of the sky will fall on your head if you dareput my hand on it. The first drop of my blood spilling you dowill turn against you and your family with a fury that youcant imagine, count Morfidio. Your lineage could disappear.

- You're a damn stubborn! Or talk to me or you will see themwith some worse than me!- Neither ambitious milreis get my tongue is unleashed! My

secret is saved on the back of my mind, in an inaccessibleplace!- I have proof of your witchcraft! Morfidio exclaimed, wavingthe parchment Cromell had discovered in the tower. Here isirrefutable evidence!- The scroll is harmless.Morfidio unrolled, grinned and read a few lines:- "The heart of a man worth more than gold if it is able to fillit with wisdom." What does this sentence wise? ...- Exactly what it says: that the ignorant are nothing.- "He who gets knowledge fill a human being, will havegiven the greatest wealth of this world will be givenunlimited power ..." Tell me what does this mean. Can he fillthe mind of a man of knowledge and wisdom? Did you findthe formula to turn a wise ignorant? "That power isimmortality? Can I revive?- Listen, Morfidio. You're ignorant and you shall be yourwhole life, "said Archimedes, regaining composure. I cantdo anything for you. You're too vain and despotic totransform yourself into a wise man.- And you, alchemist, the devil, you're too valuable to youfree. I'll rot in dungeons until you decide to talk. You mightbe seeing sunlight for the last time ... Die with yourassistant-Morfidio threatened as she opened the door.Guards! "Take this man and lock him up with his servant in

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the deepest, darkest cell in the castle! That are monitoredday and night and nobody, absolutely nobody, talk to them!Nobody!Archimedes felt a deep concern when he heard the orders

of the count. He then realized that this confinement towhich he subjected meant certain death for Arthur. Forseveral seconds he wondered whether he should reveal thesecret formula in exchange for the life of his assistant, butrecalled that it was too precious to be shared with thisCount ambitious and unscrupulous. In his hands, wouldbecome a terrible and destructive weapon.- If you knew what it is, "muttered Archimedes when he was

alone, I would not hesitate to tear me to pieces thatpowerful secret that lies in my heart.

* * *

Arthur opened his eyes and saw Arquimed bending overhim, trying to dry the sweat darkened his brow.- Do not move, "said the sage. You have a fever.- Will I die, Master?- Would not happen. Hopefully the infection is gone and thebleeding finally cut. But you've lost too much blood.- Morfidio should not get the secret formula!- Do not worry, Arturo. Even under torture I start a word-promised Archimedes. And now, try to rest.- That formula is too important for an individual as Morfidiohas the power to use Arthur whispered before closing hiseyes and plunge into the world of darkness. We must stopit!

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OUT TO THE WORLD

MY NAME IS ARTHUR AND LIVE IN THE FOUNDATIONADRAGN, an old Mansion that, over time, HAS BECOME ANEXTRAORDINARY LIBRARY, FULL OF BOOKS AND SCROLLSOF THE MIDDLE AGES, MY FAMILY HAS GONE UP TOACHIEVE ACHIEVE COLLECTING THE AMOUNT OF ONE

HUNDRED fifty thousand copies. This makes it ONE of themost appreciated and visit to the WORLD. WORKS HEREARE SO OLD THAT THEY CAN NOT EVEN PUT DATE. IN THEFOUNDATION'S VOLUMES ADRAGN so valuable that manyforeign experts come to study ... Strombo SUCH AS THAT.

Every day I remind myself who I am. These fantastic dreamsthat haunt me compels me to ask me questions about my

identity very rare.Although we at the beginning of course, in the autumn, theday is good and just cold. Pick some leaves that just fell tothe ground, I will use to identify the pages of my books. Ilike to think that these leaves of trees are well understoodwith the sheets of paper books. In the final analysis, thepaper comes from them, and although people may seembad, I can not think of a better use for the wood the role of

becoming a book.As always, I meet with Hoppy, the bum on the cornerbegging who spends hours and has become my friend,almost my only friend outside of the Foundation.- Hey, Hoppy-greeting.- Hello, Arthur. Okay?- Yes, I'm going to school. How are you? Today I brought anorange.

- Thanks, kid. You have a good heart and some day you will

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receive your reward. The generous as you have a place inheaven, I tell you.- Do not talk nonsense, "I reply. How are you today?- These days I sleep badly. Is the time, that is changing and

affecting my leg, damn leg, "he says, passing his hand overthe stump. The devils conspire against me.- Do not be silly. It may hurt you do not have a leg-argument. Not possible.- Not everything that happens in this world there is anexplanation, "replied Hoppy tongue a bit thick. If I say ithurts, it hurts me, okay?- Okay, Okay, I admit, looking at the carton of a brand of

wine sticking out of his coat. I think today will be a goodday, so glad that face.- I have little hope that it is. People are becoming morestingy and not scratching your pocket as before. Perhapsyou no longer feel sorry for the unfortunate as I was.- Come on, stop complaining.- I wish that you never see in my place, kid. We sincerelywish him. There is no place in the world worse than lying ona sidewalk, begging from people you ignored.While the orange peels, I realize that whispers something.- Hoppy, I tell you come into mysteries.- Things are a little unrest in the neighborhood, "he says.Very riots.- Riots? What do you mean?- Robbery, beatings ... hooliganism.- Well, I do not like.- You can say that she says, biting into a slice. If I told you ...

- Why do you say that? Do you have something wrong?- Last night ... Some guys tried to rob ... Come on, who triedto steal my stuff.- Are you sure you want to steal?- I just tell you be careful. Lately I've seen a lot of weirdpeople around here. The demons are coming out of thegutter. We are invading. Around here for days.

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- Loiter the Foundation?- Exactly. I warn you, Arthur, be careful, very careful ...- Thanks, you're a good friend ... Although you are a littlecrazy.

- Mad, I? If you were me you would not say that!I'm running not to hear their complaints. I know he gets onyour nerves they call him crazy, though, deep down, helikes to pretend that it is.

* * *

When I get to college, I run into some classmates who, like

me, come late, but not even greet me and it saddens me.Although this situation lasted for some years, I cant digestit, and whenever that occurs, I feel hurt deep in my heart.Although I know that they do precisely that reason, to hurtme, I cant help feeling hurt and not hide it. At times I wastempted to tell my father, but never have done. He is a manbeset by problems of all kinds and I did not want to botherhim. I love you too much to complain about matters that Imust bear alone.Mercury, the doorman, greets me as usual, with a smile andwords of encouragement:- Hello, Arthur, I see you. I see that you look good.- Hello, Mercury, good morning.- What is your father?- Oh, good, very good! Thank you.- Well, give my regards when you see him. And run, you'regoing a little late.I make a farewell with his hand and entered the mainbuilding. I come to class when the teacher is just closing thedoor.- Arturo, you are always the last, "she says by way ofwelcome.- Yes, sir, excuse me.- Come on, pass and sit down, let's get started.My desk is double, but I'm the only one of the class to feel

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alone. Nobody wants to share a table with me.Just take a seat just as the door opened and theheadmaster enters hurriedly. All faces are tense, it is notunusual to see him enter a classroom without notice.

Although sometimes brings good news, we can not help usnervous.- Good morning, "announced in her gentle voice.Everyone responds to the greeting and make a respectfulsilence, which means that his words are eagerly waited.- I have good news for you, "he says, knowing thateverybody pays attention. Your Language Arts teacher, Mr.Miralles, want to return to their city for a long time, so it is

waiting to find someone to replace him. Well, we havefound that person.

You can hear some whispering, but it's hard to know if theyare approved. Mr. Miralles is a professor appreciated by theentire class, but has not been time to take the love theydeserve.

To me, his departure is bad news. It is the only person in theschool, apart from Mercury, who treats me well. I love himand I hate anything that has to go.- So, within a week, on Monday, day one, I will present youthe new teacher who replaced him. I will come to presentmyself. I hope you give him a warm welcome, as I hope youknow thank Mr. Miralles the effort made during this monthto give the necessary classes, in order not to lose thecourse. Okay?

The professor applauded the words of the director and wedid the same. The director takes the floor again:- Well, until Monday.When leaving the classroom, there is an atmosphere ofrelief. It's always good to know that did not come to punishsomeone or bring bad news about upcoming exams orsomething.

The teacher goes to the podium and speaks to us:- Well, as you have heard, the master director has broughtgood news to all.

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A murmur of approval runs the class. After a few seconds,he continues:- And now, let's review the class yesterday. Let's review theRomance languages. Let's see ... Who wants to explain what

are the Romance languages?Everyone looks at him, but nobody says anything.I know the answer. Still, I hesitate to open my mouthbecause I know that all you'll get will be more accusationsof my comrades. Every time I said I knew anything, it hascost me dearly. And, over the years, I've learned that Ishould remain silent. But today I feel brave ... And I raisemy hand:

- I know! "I say aloud.- Are you sure? asks the teacher, knowing the implicationsmy boldness.- Yes, sir. If I may, I'll explain.

The teacher nods and my twenty-four colleagues look at mein disbelief. If I go on stage and give them a lesson, I'll paydearly. But I'm not cowering. Instead, I get up and walk tothe blackboard. Then I take a chalk drawing a map of aterritory which resembles Europe.- Romance languages derived from Latin. And spoken insome European countries like Spain, France, Portugal, Italy... In fact, emerged following the disintegration of theRoman Empire and it was during the Middle Ages when thecommon people of every country adapted the Latin to itsnatural and created their own language.Drawing some graphics and add some additionalexplanations that round my explanations.- Let's say that Latin and became fragmented in differentlanguages are called Romance languages or romances.- Correct, "said the professor. You did a good job. You'reback to prove you're a great student ...

To underline his words, starts to clap, hoping that studentswill follow suit, but wrong. The complete silenceaccompanies his pat, leaving us both almost ridiculous.Horatio raises his hand to take the floor and the teacher is

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granted.- If Arthur tries to show that others are idiots, I would saythat is wrong. Any of us knew the answer to that question,"he says, standing up. What happens is that we do not like

ridicule anyone.I understood the message and under the eyes in silence.- He has not done to make a fool of anyone, "replied Mr.Miralles. It has done so because I knew the answer. Neithermore nor less.- I disagree. He knows exactly what the reasons which leadhim to ridicule wherever he can. It's a nerd who wants to bethe ready-Horace insists. It's in his face!

His last sentence provokes laughter from the entire class.- Well, let's end this incident, "asked Mr. Miralles, gesturingwith his hand. Nobody wants to mock anyone. Here wecome to learn.- Then, why come to class if you know everything?I cant restrain myself and I answer indignantly and jerky:- I came because I have the right to study! I come becauseno one can stop me from being like the rest!- But you're not like the others! You know you're different toeveryone! "replies Horatio.- Yes, you're a monster and should not be here with us!Someone yells from the bottom of the class.- You need only look at you face!- Silence! "ordered the professor. I will not allow this kindsomeone might be insulted!But far from being intimidated, students are emboldenedand shout louder. Some hiss and laugh, until, together,manage to get nervous ... And I notice that my face lightsup.I realize that everyone looks at me with eyes open insurprise. Borja said my face with his hand and exclaimed:- Look, they move! The black spots are moving!- How strong! "shouts someone who does not identify.I cant see, but I notice it perfectly.- What last! Marisa says absolutely blown away. How do you

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do, man?I know that the black spots are moving across my face. Iknow that move slowly, like a snake crawling over a rock.- It's a monster! Horace cries.

- We should call the police, "said Inez. This is not normal.- It's witchcraft! Alfonso yells.- I'm not a monster! Desperately shouted several times,knowing that my words are lost in the cries of mycompanions. I'm not a monster!I cover my face with both hands, but it's too late. The wholeclass has seen ... Even the teacher can observe with horrorwhat had been discussed many times and very few had

come to see.I look at him, pleading for permission to leave class.Stammering, I ask permission to retire.- You can go to the bathroom he says, looking incredulous.Come back when you've calmed down.I go to my desk, I grab my backpack and run off to classwhile my teammates shouting that accursed word whichhatred Caradragn! Caradragn! Caradragn!Only when I reach the street beginning to calm down a bit.Now my big worry is that I do not see anyone. I know that ifI meet someone, I cant stand it and I feel very bad. I do notlike anyone I contemplate in this way, with this great designon the face and that damned spot moving at ease.I approach the rearview mirror of a car and see that thespots have formed a kind of letter 'A' which covers most ofmy face. A horrible and aggressive letter has clawed feetand whose head, shaped like a dragon, is between my twoeyebrows, almost on the front ... I'm horrible and no wonderpeople panic!Even with the nerves to the surface, I sit on a park bench,close my eyes and caress my face tattooed...

DEEP WOUNDS, WOUND FATAL

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Arthur's wound was deep. Morfidio, an expert in handling weapons, had

plunged the blade of his dagger to the hilt and had opened a dangerous cut

that was infected. Archimedes cloths applied to the wound, which was

filled with yellow pus and smelly. He used the little water that the guards

had given him and which been beginning to be dirty.The boy stirred uneasily in his bed, haunted by the fever that kept rising.

Her body was sweating and writhing in pain unbearable. His eyes narrowed

but he saw what was before them ...

The groans indicate to the teacher that jerky was suffering much. Besides

the physical pain, the wound had caused hallucinations which made him

utter nonsense. The delirium had seized his mental faculties, sure sign that

death was near.

Suddenly, Arthur suffered several convulsions and fainted. Archimedes

abundant dried the sweat that adorned his face and felt a great concern. He

knew that such attacks were a prelude to the final.

He stroked her gently and cried for him.

- Sorry, Arthur. This is my entire fault. I should never allow you to

accompany me. It would have been better for you not known me. I should

not accept you as an assistant. Alchemy is dangerous in these times.

As if he had heard his words, Arthur took her hand and squeezed it hard.

* * *

The man with bulging eyes and big ears entered the barn, escorted by twosoldiers. He stopped a few meters from the place where the king was

leaning over her Benicius hunter, who stroked it tenderly. The animal was

lying on the floor mired in blood, with terrible bites all over his body that

had broken the skin. It was evident that, despite the care lavished him

veterinarians had no salvation. The wounds were too severe.

- What do you, Scorpio? Do you have something important to tell me?

Asked the monarch, his eyes filled with tears and his face off, while

frightened some flies that swirled around the wounds of the noble animal.

You're not timely. My best horse has been attacked this evening by one ofthose beasts that plague us. I heard that a bear came flying into the stables

last night and made this escabechina.

- Sorry, your majesty, I know how much you love this animal.

- It's been a slaughter. That beast has killed two guards and attacked several

horses ... Look at the state has left my poor hunting companion.

- I'm sorry to bother you at this time, your majesty, but ...

- Talk, talk, bring any bad news that could not be worse than this.

- It is my duty to inform you of a terrible event that has occurred in your

kingdom. Count Morfidio has entered your lands and has abductedArchimedes, the wise man that I protegis and, following your orders, was

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watching.

- And why has committed such an outrage? Benicius asked with little

interest, more concerned about the status of your horse. Is it perhaps does

not know that Morfidio alchemist is under my protection?

- You know your majesty. I know that. But do not mind at all. I have lostrespect.

Benicius spent his right hand on the animal's nose. He did it with love and

delicacy, as he used to always, as it was a fine man and good manners were

part of his style.

- The alchemist works for me. It has the task of finding a formula that

serves to defend ourselves from devouring beasts that infest our forests and

fields.

- I'm afraid, your majesty, that it is not interested in Morfidio Scorpio said

softly, to avoid disturbing the pain of the monarch who embraced the dying

animal. Archimedes invented something different from what you have

ordered.

- Are you saying you betrayed me?

- Just tell your majesty what I know. I am sure that you have created a

secret formula that turns men into immortal. And she wants to take over

Morfidio.

Benicius was startled to hear the explanation of the spy. Pamper the horse

stopped and listened to his informer.

- Everybody go and leave me with this man ordered the servants and

guardians who accompanied him. And you better explain yourself.- I believe that Archimedes discovered the secret of immortality, my lord!

"Said Scorpio. And Morfidio is ahead!

- What can I do? Will you return to the wise if I order?

- It will not, my lord. Morfidio has decided to take that formula secret and

nothing will be restrained ... Unless force.

- I should run that bloody butcher years ago when I took over from his

father.

At that time, the magnificent horse gave a whinny, stretched his neck,

raised his head and died. Benicius knelt beside her and ran his hand overthe bloodied neck.

- Oh, heavens! The world has gone mad! Nobles betray their king sorcerers

haunt his killer beast, the farmers refuse to pay taxes, the villagers hunt in

our forest, the outlaws live outside the law, diseases haunt us ... And now,

alchemists mock their protectors ... What can I do? What do you think I

should do?

- Impose order, my lord. Total retaliation. Let them see that your pulse is

strong. That everyone understands that those who betray you pay dearly.

Do it before the chaos and anarchy from spreading through your kingdom,my lord.

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Benicius watched intently to his faithful servant. She put her hand on his

shoulder and said:

- I've done a great service, Scorpio. You will be rewarded for your work.

Do not regret your faithfulness. Keep it up. I think you will listen ...

He gave a last glance at the body of his horse and, as he left the stables,took an oath:

- I will avenge, dear friend. We will impose order in the kingdom. And

those who have attacked you will pay ... All traitors hanged and wipe out

those beasts. My patience has run out!

Scorpio A smile of satisfaction. He noted that King was walking toward her

apartment. Benicius, a skinny, delicate and frail health, which was still

under the effect of his bout with leprosy, was visibly depressed and was an

easy target for an ambitious man like him. Scorpio was convinced that if

our actions could get anything he wanted. Arch Benicius was a weak man

who trusted him blindly.

- I will become your eyes and your ears and pay me in gold, "whispered the

informer.

* * *

Morfidio watched through the keyhole of the dungeon of despair

Archimedes, who cried out for the guards to bring him medicines to heal

the wounds of Arthur, who was dying.

The count saw that this situation will benefit you. Soon the sage would beready to talk. I tell every detail of that formula that would give him

unlimited power.

He leaned against the door, feeling satisfied with the cries of distress of the

alchemist. He asked his servant to fill the cup of wine, which was empty,

and waited patiently.

When Archimedes, in desperation, threw a stool at the door of his cell and

made her tremble, Morfidio smiled. He went away, convinced that the next

day, before the sun was at the height of heaven, the alchemist would tell

him the secret she longed to have ... He wished for his own interest, thatArthur survived the dark night to come. One night, like most, was filled

with howls of wolves and evil beasts roar.

"We will have another bloody bloody night, he thought.

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The Kingdom of Dreams

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Transcript of The Kingdom of Dreams