Wizards: Calm Before the Storm

Chapter 8: Trouble Brewing….

Over in Soviet Russian, Xenia was on the phone. Just yesterday she had sent her team to kidnap Russian computer scientist, Vladimir Mishkin. What Xenia had planned was for him to launch a nuclear missile at Ukraine and blame it on the Americas. She was hoping that Premier Vladimir Putin would be convinced to declare war against the Western Powers and make Communism the ruling power of the entire world, just as Vladimir Lenin and Joseph Stalin had both planned to do before their untimely deaths.

Everything seemed to be going according to her design….

Right now she was on the phone with her right hand man, Boris.

She said, "so Boris, have you got that measly scientist yet?"

Boris said, "yeah, we bagged him this morning."

Xenia smiled wickedly at this and said, "good, bring him to the missile sight just as he planned."

Boris said, "it'll be done, Miss."

Xenia gave a coy smile and said, "and if you are lucky Boris, I may reward you."

Boris gave a grin over the phone and asked, "and what may that be Xenia?"

Xenia smirked lustfully as she licked her lips and said, "you know…."

Boris grinned and asked, "well I get to see every inch of you naked?"

Xenia said, "oh, even more than that. Maybe I'll milk…. You…. Dry…."

Boris, who wanted nothing more than to fuck Xenia's brains out, said, "I eagerly look forward to it."

Xenia rubbed her thighs together and said, "ooohhhh…. I can't wait…."

Xenia then hung up and went to have a shower, by this time tomorrow she was going to make Lenin and Stalin's dream come true.

….

Meanwhile, back in West Germany, Albert and Elsa were in their apartment scraping off some old wallpaper. They both had the radio on and a public address issue to the public as they worked.

The Public Service Announcer was explaining the importance of staying home, "If you leave your home, your local authority may take it over for homeless families. And, if you move, the authorities in the new place will not help you with food, accommodation, or other essentials. You are better off in your own home. Stay there."

Elsa said, "none of that seemed helpful, did it?"

Albert just shook his head and said, "no it didn't."

The two of them continued to scrape off the old wallpaper. Eventually, a few minutes later, Elsa stopped completely. Albert then turned to see her standing completely still.

Wondering if she was okay, he asked, "Elsa, are you okay?"

Then suddenly Elsa threw down her scraper and began to fling things to the ground in despair, much to Albert's shock.

Albert exclaimed, "Elsa?! Elsa!"

He quickly ran to her and took hold of her shoulders.

Albert then tried to get her to calm down, "Elsa, Elsa, calm down."

Elsa didn't listen and began to strike Albert as anguish tears streamed down her face. Albert then took her into his arms and held her tight, Elsa tried to break loose but Albert held her tight.

Albert kept a tight hold on her.

Elsa then ceased her struggling and then began to cry in Albert's arms. Albert then gently held onto Elsa as she continued to cry in his arms as the two of them sat down together.

Albert cradled Elsa in his arms.

Albert then said gently to Elsa, "it's okay Elsa, it's okay."

Elsa slowly began to calm down.

Elsa then croaked, "not it's not Albert."

Albert continued to hold her close as he looked at her and asked, "why's that?"

Elsa looked at Albert with tears streaming down her face and said, "because of this nuclear war that everybody says is going to happen."

Albert then tried to comfort her and said, "Elsa, you know it might never happen."

Elsa, however, just looked at him as she began to cry again, "but how can you be sure of that? Oh Albert, I was happy about the baby, but I wish we weren't having one."

Albert gasped and hugged her close, saying, "sweety, don't say that. This baby…. They're a blessing. They are the best thing to happen to us. And even if a war breaks out, this kid will be a bright spot in the world. I promise, you, me and the baby will make it through this."

Elsa sniffled, unable to form words as Albert rubbed her back.

Albert knew that Elsa was scared for what might happen, he really couldn't blame her for it. He remembered his grandparents telling him stories about the Cuban Missile Crisis and how his father had nightmares for weeks following the news.

Elsa cried, "I…. I just don't want our baby to suffer because of this war…."

Albert then said, "the war probably won't happen, everyone knows the full consequences of what a nuclear war will bring."

That managed to calm Elsa down a little bit.

Albert then thought of something that he hoped would cheer her up, he then looked towards a shelf where Elsa's Age of Myth books were. He then decided who would possibly cheer her up, then looked towards her.

He said, "perhaps a visit to the Great Dragon would cheer you up?"

Elsa looked up at Albert and asked, "are you serious?"

Albert gave a firm nod and said, "yes."

Elsa asked, "when can we visit him?"

Albert said, "I can drive us there first thing tomorrow."

Elsa then gave him a smile and said, "that actually would be nice."

Albert smiled and said, "anything for you, my love."

Elsa smiled at the thought of seeing the Great Dragon. After all, it wasn't everyday that you got to see a real breathing Dragon. Just then, Elsa remembered something. Günter had wanted to buy the newly released VHS collection of the Star Wars Special Edition. However, he had forgotten about it and Elsa had offered to buy it for him.

It gave her the idea to show the movies to the Great Dragon!

Elsa then said, "Albert, before we head out tomorrow, I just have to buy Günter the Star Wars Special Edition VHS tapes, if that's okay?"

Albert said, "of course, sweety. Whatever you need."

Albert then gave a light chuckle. Elsa wondered what was so funny.

She then asked, "what's the joke Albert?"

Albert gave her a smile and said, "just remembering the time my parents and I showed the Great Dragon: The Empire Strikes Back."

This made Elsa giggle as well.

….

Flashback….

Albert, Klaus and a pregnant Mila were in the Great Dragons cave. Klaus and Mila had brought a film projector and a VHS player and were showing a film. The film which they had brought today was; The Empire Strikes Back.

They had just got to the most famous scene in the entire film, Luke Skywalker had just been defeated by Darth Vader, who was now calling out to him.

On screen, Vader said, "Obi-Wan never told you what happened to your father."

The Great Dragon growled at the Sith Lord, "he told Luke that you betrayed and murdered him."

Right as he said this, Luke said, "he told me enough! He told me you killed him!"

However, Vader revealed the chilling truth.

"No…. I'm your father!"

The Great Dragon actually gasped in shock upon hearing this plot twist!

He said at the same time as Luke, "no! No! That's not true! That's impossible!"

On screen Vader said, "search your feelings, you know it to be true."

On screen, Luke yelled, "NOOOO! NOOOOOOO!"

The Great Dragon exclaimed, "dear God! Darth Vader is Luke's father?!"

Klaus nodded and said, "I'm afraid so."

The Great Dragon asked, "how is that possible?"

Mila said, "you have the Emperor to thank for that."

The Great Dragon said, "he sounds so despicable."

Mila agreed with him, "that he is, he was also the one who seduced Anakin to the Dark Side of the Force."

The Great Dragon growled, "I hope he gets his comeuppance."

Klaus then said, "oh don't worry he gets punished fully."

The Great Dragon simply said, "good."

The Great Dragon then thought of something. Something about Anakin Skywalker falling under the sway of a Dark Lord reminded him of Merlin, Julia, their son and the Evil Wizard Vortigern.

It was still a haunting memory.

Albert then asked, "what are you thinking of, Great Dragon?"

The Great Dragon replied, "just remembering something. Vader being seduced by the Emperor reminded me of Merlin and Julia."

Klaus asked, "Merlin as in King Arthur's Merlin?"

The Great Dragon said, "no. A different Merlin. One not related to the legend of the sword in the stone."

Mila then asked, "who was he and who was Julia?"

The Great Dragon then said, "Merlin was a young Wizards apprentice and Julia was the very beautiful daughter of a powerful Elf Duke."

Klaus said, "sounds like a forbidden romance."

The Great Dragon gave a sigh, "it was a tragic romance actually…."

That intrigued the others.

The Great Dragon then explained the entire story.

Over 1600 years ago, there was a young human Wizards apprentice named Merlin, son of the great Wizard Gabriel, who fell in love with a girl named Julia. Julia was the very beautiful daughter of Inioch, a powerful Elf Duke. Merlin had been in love with her since he was a young boy, happily for him, Julia felt the same thing. However, unbeknownst to them, their love would soon take a tragic turn when Saridas came to her and came to Inioch's manor one day. Saridas was a handsome Elf warrior who was in love with Julia too, to her surprise, Julia found herself in love with him too.

However, she still loved Merlin with all of her heart. This then brought her to a difficult decision. She feared that if he learned that she was in love with Saridas too, that it would destroy him.

Klaus looked up at the Great Dragon and asked, "Julia was definitely in a dilemma wasn't she?"

The Great Dragon gave a firm nod and said, "indeed."

Malia then asked, "did thing eventually take a turn for the worse Great Dragon?"

The Great Dragon gave a solemn sigh and said, "indeed it did."

Klaus then asked, "how tragic did everything become, Great Dragon?"

The Great Dragon sighed and said, "where do I even begin?"

Mila then said, "take your time, don't worry."

The Great Dragon nodded in thanks before saying, "maybe cover Albert's ears, I'm afraid some of the story isn't appropriate for a child at his age."

Mila nodded as she covered Albert's ears.

Albert didn't look pleased by this in the slightest and said, "but I want to hear it."

Klaus said, "he'll tell you the story when you're older"; Klaus then looked at the Great Dragon, "continue then, Great Dragon."

The Great Dragon then continued his story.

He explained that the tragedy began one day when Merlin visited Julia whilst she was in her room. He gave her a beautiful necklace which he had made himself. Julia loved it so much, and before they even knew it, they had stripped naked and were making love. They had just finished when the servants had caught sight of it, after being brought to Inioch and Saridas. Merlin insisted that they were both in love, but even though she loved him with all of her heart, Julia feared that her family's reputation would be destroyed, so she very reluctantly lied and said that Merlin had raped her.

Both Klaus and Mila were shocked by this. Julia had betrayed her beloved by saying that he had raped her, when in truth he had done no such thing.

Klaus then asked, "what happened then, Great Dragon?"

The Great Dragon then gave a sign, "he was banished."

Klaus muttered, "Jesus, Mary and Joseph."

Mila said, "how could they do that?"

The Great Dragon said, "there are many tragic tales caused by fear and ignorance."

Klaus let go of Albert's ears as he then asked, "you were there, weren't you?"

The Great Dragon nodded somberly.

The Great Dragon replied, "I tried to get Inioch to reconsider, however, he was very stubborn about it."

Mila then reluctantly asked, "did poor Merlin beg for mercy and protest his innocence?"

The Great Dragon sighed and said, "he did, but his banishment went through anyway."

Klaus asked, "did anyone believe that he was innocent?"

The Great Dragon nodded and said, "there were. There was his father, brother, maternal aunt and uncle, amazingly; Julia's brother Meandor and the seventh…."

Mila asked, "and who was the seventh believer?"

The Great Dragon said, "you're looking at him."

Klaus and Mila both gave a small smile, knowing that the Great Dragon believed that young Merlin was innocent. But they wondered what the reactions of the others were.

It was Klaus who asked, "may I ask; how did Merlin's father reacted to his son's banishment?"

The Great Dragon held a somber look, as if he was unsure if he should answer.

Mila asked, "was he enraged by it?"

The Great Dragon simply nodded.

Klaus then asked, "what about Merlin?"

The Great Dragon sadly said, "I'm afraid that his love Julia was replaced by hatred. He wanted revenge."

That didn't sound good.

The Great Dragon continued, "especially after he became Darken's lieutenant."

All three humans gasped in shock.

Klaus asked, "who is Darken, Great Dragon?"

The Great Dragon said, "a name I hate to even speak."

Albert asked, "a powerful and evil wizard, Great Dragon?"

The Great Dragon said, "indeed. A very terrible being."

Klaus curiously asked, "what did he do?"

The Great Dragon said, "he met Merlin, who was in deep despair about his situation. After learning of what happened, Darken offered him revenge and to be his lieutenant."

Klaus said, "oh dear. That doesn't sound good."

The Great Dragon said, "indeed it wasn't."

Mila asked, "is there more to the story?"

The Great Dragon nodded somberly.

The Great Dragon then continued with his story. He explained that just a month after Merlin's banishment, Julia discovered that she was pregnant with twins. She later gave birth to two sons, whom she named Garth and Bowen. However, Inioch forced her to give them up. Julia was devastated and begged her father to let her keep them, but Inioch refused. Before giving them away, Julia left a note with them, saying that she would come back for them. A couple of years later, Julia married Saridas and another two years later they had two children of their own. A girl named Sundren and a boy named Thannis. The two of them were the rudest and most obnoxious brats you would ever meet, the two of them often played mean spirited tricks and called people rude names and got away with it.

Klaus and Mila were shocked by this, two children behaving in the most horrible way ever.

Mila said angrily, "I honestly can't believe that Julia and Saridas allowed their children to behave that way, clearly they were spoiled and not disciplined!"

The Great Dragon said, "such is the life of many a noble."

Klaus said, "go on then, what happened next?"

The Great Dragon then explained that when the time came for her to look for Garth and Bowen, Julia didn't. When he and Meandor asked her why, Julia explained although she desperately wanted to, she believed that Saridas would never accept them, and that her boys were better off without her to cause them any pain. When the Great Dragon reminded her that she promised, Julia said that she was sorry but her answer was still no. This left both the Great Dragon and Meandor furious at Julia for her broken promise and unwillingness to follow her heart. Then, about two years later, a pair of 10 year old Half-Elf boys were caught trying to steal food from the kitchen. Inioch and Saridas wanted to punish them severely but Julia took pity on them and offered to take them on as her personal attendants. Both Inioch and Saridas were disgusted by this but they allowed it, the two revealed their names as Garth and Bowen. At first, Julia was shocked at this revelation, thinking that they might be her two sons but she soon brushed it off.

Julia treated Garth and Bowen as if they were her own and even grew to love them. Much to Sundren and Thannis' jealousy. She would even punish them if they played one of their usual tricks on Garth and Bowen, however, soon history would repeat itself. One day, Garth decided to show Julia their most treasured possession, a note from their mother saying that she loved them and would come back for them. They explained that when she didn't then they both decided to look for her, Julia took the note and it was there they learned that they were in fact the sons she had with Merlin.

Albert asked, "what happened next?"

The Great Dragon said, "after learning that the boys were her own two sons, she was more determined than ever to protect them and make up for her previous sins."

Klaus asked, "but Inioch and Saridas sent them away didn't they?"

The Great Dragon nodded sadly.

He said, "once the truth was learned, even as Julia begged them not to, sent the boys away. I promised Julia I would see to it that they found a new home."

Mila asked, "and did you?"

The Great Dragon, however, revealed that he wasn't able to as Inioch learned of his plan and had him banished. As if that wasn't bad enough, a group of Darken's Orcs, under the command of Merlin attacked and killed the Elves who were accompanying Garth and Bowen. Whilst asking the boys who they were, one of the Orcs handed Merlin a note that was supposedly written by Julia, saying that she wanted them dead. Merlin also learned that they were his sons, believing that Julia wanted them dead, Merlin swore he would destroy her and her family. Merlin then took Garth and Bowen to Darken's fortress where he personally trained them in the art of combat, Garth was taught swordsmanship and Bowen archery.

The Great Dragon said that despite the fact that he was training them to help him take revenge on Julia, he dearly loved both his sons. Eventually Merlin showed them the letter. Garth and Bowen both felt nothing but hatred and anger towards their mother and swore to have their revenge.

The Great Dragon said, "knowing that time was of the essence, I tried to find some way to get to the boys to tell them the truth. That it was Inioch who wrote that damned letter."

Albert asked, "but why would Inioch do it to his own grandsons?"

The Great Dragon said, "he was a stubborn, bitter fool who believed Merlin and his children were wicked monsters, even after Julia told him the truth in a last ditch effort to save her sons."

Klaus said, "scumbag."

The Great Dragon nodded in agreement.

Joyce then puts on black lipstick on Sam's lips.

Karen put on Sam's purple eyeshadow.

Mila wondered, "what about Merlin's father and brother, why didn't they take Garth and Bowen in?"

The Great Dragon said, "they were under threat of banishment if either of them helped Merlin or his children."

Klaus said, "I take it that destroyed them?"

The Great Dragon nodded.

Mila asked, "and did those two little brats Julia had with Saridas become even worse?"

The Great Dragon nodded again.

Albert asked, "what happened then?".

The Great Dragon then continued with his story. He explained that when Garth and Bowen both turned twenty, Darken announced his plans for world domination. His first target was Inioch's domain of Alfheim, a place Merlin, Garth and Bowen were eager to attack. They led the army of Orcs, Goblins and Trolls to Alfheim and attacked, killing most of the Elves there. But Julia, Saridas, Sundred, Thannis and Inioch were spared and taken prisoner. Once that was done, Merlin, Garth and Bowen confronted them.

The Wagner's all looked at each other uneasily, they knew that Merlin, Garth and Bowen's confrontation with Julia would be very bitter.

It was Klaus who asked, "tell us what happened when the four of them confronted each other, Great Dragon, we want to know?"

The Great Dragon said, "well…. Things went better than you'd expect…."

Albert asked, "how so, Great Dragon? Please explain?"

The Great Dragon said, "well, Julia told her sons she didn't write the letter, to which Inioch confirmed under threat of a knife to his neck."

Klaus asked, "did they believe her?"

The Great Dragon said, "believe it or not, yes."

For once, the story seemed to have a glimmer of hope to it.

Klaus however wondered something, "was Merlin still rather bitter at Julia for say he raped her?"

The Great Dragon nodded and said, "a bit, yes."

Mila said, "can't say I blame the poor guy, being accused of rape by your beloved would be enough to make him hate her for life."

The Great Dragon sadly agreed, "that it can, that it can."

Albert, however, was curious about something and asked, "mommy, daddy, what's rape?"

His parents and the Great Dragon went wide-eyed. They weren't prepared for THAT question!

Klaus then placed his hand on his son and said, "Albert, I'm afraid you're too young to know what it is..."

Albert, however, was still curious and asked, "why, is it bold, daddy?"

Klaus nodded and said, "it's something very dark to talk about. We'll explain it when you're older."

Mila then asked, "continue with your story, Great Dragon…."

The Great Dragon then continued with the story.

Although they believed her, Merlin, Garth and Bowen were still bitter at Julia for her rape accusation. Inioch and Saridas, however, tried to egg them on into killing them, Sundren and Thannis. However, the three of them refused. Julia then turned to face both her father and husband. She told them that she had had enough of their selfish and horrible nature. She especially chewed into Sundren and Thannis for their spoiled and bratty behavior. She then explained that she was going to leave them and go back to the family her heart told her to have, to a family who actually loved her.

This actually touched Merlin, Garth and Bowen, to see Julia standing up to her family in order to make amends for what she had done

The Great Dragon then revealed, "when this happened Darken appeared. He said that he knew that Merlin, Garth and Bowen were weak, and that he should have killed them like Inioch had suggested."

The Wagner family were shocked. Inioch was working with Darken, an evil wizard.

Klaus asked, shocked, "Inioch and Darken were in league?"

The Great Dragon nodded and said, "indeed. He had wanted Darken to kill Merlin and his sons."

Mila asked, "were Saridas, Sundren and Thannis in league with him too?"

The Great Dragon nodded.

Albert then asked, "why would they work with an evil wizard, Great Dragon?"

The Great Dragon said, "all because of their hatred towards Merlin and his bloodline…."

Klaus asked, "what happened next, Great Dragon?"

The Great Dragon revealed that Darken shot a dark spell at Garth and Bowen. Then he, Inioch, Saridas, Sundren and Thannis retreated with the army. The Great Dragon then explained that the dark spell that struck Garth and Bowen was extremely dangerous, and that the only way to undo it was if someone gave their lifeforce.

Albert asked, "and who gave their life for theirs?"

The Great Dragon said, "Merlin and Gabriel."

The others all gasped.

Klaus asked, "but why did Gabriel give his life force?"

The Great Dragon said, "he saw how much Julia had changed, and wanted the boys and their mother to have a better life after all of this despair."

Albert asked, "was it because he was also ashamed for not taking in Garth and Bowen too Great Dragon?"

The Great Dragon nodded and said, "that too."

Mila asked, "how did Julia take to Merlin's death?"

The Great Dragon said, "she was saddened to lose her love yet again."

Albert asked, "but did the spell work?"

The Great Dragon nodded, "it did, but at a great price."

Klaus said, "the lives of Gabriel and Merlin, right?"

The Great Dragon nodded sadly and said, "correct. Merlin and Gabriel sacrificed their lives to save their sons and grandsons."

Mila wondered, "how did Julia react?"

The Great Dragon said, "as I already said, she was heartbroken to lose Merlin and Gabriel, but took joy knowing that her sons would live; and she wouldn't let them get hurt again."

Albert, however, asked, "but what about her two other children?"

The Great Dragon said, "well, that's when things get interesting."

Albert asked excitedly, "really? What happened?"

The Great Dragon said, "the events involving their half brothers dying and being brought back seemed to make them realize how important family was. So, they thought it best to help their mother and the boys in their time of need."

Albert then asked, "did they?"

The Great Dragon, however, shook his head sadly, "no I'm afraid Inioch and Saridas killed them out of pure spite."

Mila asked, "he killed his own children?"

The Great Dragon nodded and said, "as soon as he found out they helped their mother and the boys flee without a trace."

Klaus then said, "it was Inioch's idea to kill them wasn't it?"

The Great Dragon nodded.

A shocked Mila asked, "but why would Inioch suggest killing his own grandchildren? That's just evil!"

The Great Dragon said, "and that's what he was. Pure evil."

Klaus said, "I can't believe that he was made a duke, how did he even get that title anyway?"

The Great Dragon said, "he did a lot of dirty work to get that title."

Mila said, "like fooling the Elf King?"

The Great Dragon nodded once again.

Klaus said, "how did he ever manage to pull that off?"

The Great Dragon said, "dark magic, for one."

Albert then asked, "what happened next Great Dragon?"

The Great Dragon smiled and said, "I'm afraid that's a story for another time young Albert, shall we continue with our movie?"

The others all nodded, eager to get back to the movie.

Flashback ends….

….

Elsa smiled slightly at the story.

She then suddenly remembered something and said, "what a minute…."

Elsa then quickly ran into her and Albert's bedroom as if to look for something. Albert wondered what it was that Elsa was looking for, but he would soon have his answer. Elsa came back a few minutes later with one of her Age of Myth books, she then handed it to Albert who looked at its title.

He read, "Age of Myth: Tragedy of Julia?"

Elsa then asked, "you mean to tell me that the entire story in this book is true?"

Albert nodded and said, "every word."

Elsa said, "woah. That's crazy!"

Albert smiled at her and said, "it sure is."

Albert gave Elsa a warm hug.

They then both broke apart before Albert said, "do you want to go and get that VHS collection before we head to the Great Dragon?"

Elsa said, "that sounds great."

Albert and Elsa both left their apartment and went down to the underground carpark. They got in their Ford Maverick and drove to the video store, they arrived at it ten minutes later, they park their jeep and went in. They browsed through several shelves with VHS tapes on them, Albert was looking at a few of the titles, there was I Spit on Your Grave (much to Albert's disgust), King Kong vs Godzilla, Jumanji, Carrie, One Million Years BC, Clash of the Titans, Greystoke, the Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes, Jaws, Disney's Song of the South, Disney's The Black Cauldron and Ridley Scott's Legend.

A large roster of films, to say the least.

Whilst Albert and Elsa were looking over the VHS tapes, one of the stores employees came over to them.

He kindly asked, "you busy looking at our titles, my friends?"

Albert looked up at him and said, "we're just looking for a VHS bundle."

The employee smiled and said, "well, you've both come to the right place. Here we've got comedy, action, adventure. science fiction, cult classics, documentaries, drama and fantasy", he then pulled some sweets from a nearby stand, "we've also got two of the store's biggest moneymakers, movie theater-style concessions. Twizzlers, not Red Vines and milk duds. So which is your fancy?"

Albert and Elsa thought for a moment.

It was Elsa who then asked, "I'm looking for the Star Wars Special Edition VHS bundle, do you guys have it?"

The employee said, "hmm, we should have it in stock. Let me go check."

Albert and Elsa both followed him to the checkout where he looked through the register, soon the results came up.

He said, "ah! Yes, we do indeed have it."

The employee went to go get the movies.

The employee then showed it to Elsa and asked, "is this the one you're looking for?"

Elsa nodded and said, "that's it."

The employee said, "okay that will be 26 Deutschmark, please."

Elsa nodded as she fished out the proper amount of money.

The employee took the money before placing the Star Wars Special Edition VHS bundle in a bag and handing it to Elsa and said, "here you go, you are now the proud owner of the Star Wars 20th Anniversary Special Edition."

Elsa smiled and said, "thank you, sir."

The employee then mentioned, "you know that Star Wars bundle is part of a deal that includes the 20th anniversary edition of Close Encounters of the Third Kind, if you are interested?"

That got Elsa excited.

She said, "well then may I have it then please?"

The employee nodded and pulled out the film.

He then asked, "would you like me to put them in a bag for you, miss?"

Elsa nodded and said, "yes please."

The employee took out a bag and placed both the Star Wars Special Edition bundle and the Close Encounters of the Third Kind 20th Anniversary Edition into it. He then handed it to Elsa, who then took it in her hand.

She said politely, "thank you sir."

The employee said, "you're welcome. You both have a nice day."

Albert and Elsa both left the video shop, they then got back into their Ford Maverick and drove off, on their journey to the Black Forest.

….

Three hours later they had arrived at their destination, they parked their jeep and made for the Forbidden Trail. However, once they reached it, Albert began to travel up it, but then turned around to see that Elsa was still at the bottom of the trail, with a frightened look on her face.

Concerned, Albert walked back to her and asked, "Elsa, what's wrong?"

Elsa said, "this is the Forbidden Trail…. I've heard the legends about this place…. THIS, is where the Great Dragon lives?!"

Albert walked up and gently took her hands in his, "Elsa, there's nothing to worry about. I promise that you'll be okay."

Elsa wasn't certain and asked, "but you remember what happened to those SS soldiers and their commanding officer who disappeared here?"

Albert said, "I know about all that. But I've been here numerous times to see the Great Dragon."

Elsa asked, "and you promise that he won't hurt us?"

Albert said, "I promise."

Feeling a little better at her fiancée's words, Elsa then allowed Albert to take her hand and lead her up the Forbidden Trail, although secretly she was still a little nervous about the whole ordeal. After about half an hour, they reached the cave where the Great Dragon lived. Elsa stopped in her tracks when they reached its entrance. Albert then let go of her hand and turned around to face her.

He said, "I'll only be a minute."

But just as he was about to go in, Elsa stopped him, "Albert, please don't go in!"

Albert saw that Elsa had fear in her eyes, he really couldn't blame her despite his assurances.

He then took both her hands in his and spoke softly, "Elsa, I promise you that nothing bad will happen to us. If it makes you feel better, how about we both go in together?"

Elsa then nodded nervously and said, "okay."

Albert slowly led Elsa into the cave.

They were both just approaching the cavern when they both saw a jet of fire bellow at the cave roof, Elsa was so frightened that she tried to run. Albert, however, gently held onto her and tried to calm her down.

He said, "Elsa, it's alright, that was only a warning."

Elsa asked, "but what if the next jet is aimed at us?"

Just then, a deep voice sounded, "alright, whoever you are, you better have a good reason for entering my lair…."

Albert then bravely walked into the cavern and said, "it's just me, sorry."

Then the voice sounded again, "who do you bring with you?"

Elsa knew that this meant the Great Dragon wanted to see her, Albert had assured her that he was friendly, but she was still a little uncertain. Talking a deep breath she then made her way into the cavern, where she beheld the Great Dragon for the first time.

He was a very large creature, with too many scales to count that shined a golden color, going over his entire body. He had long horns, green eyes, sharp teeth, claws, and powerful wings on his back, as well as a long tail.

Elsa just stared at him, speechless at the sight. She had read about him in Mila's books, but to actually see him both in real life and in person was a completely different matter altogether.

Albert then introduced her to him, "Great Dragon, I'd like to introduce you to my beloved fiancée, who is pregnant with our first child."

The Great Dragon gave his version of a smile as he looked af Elsa.

….

2 hours later….

Albert and Elsa had both left the cave and were now heading back down the Forbidden Trail to their jeep. Albert saw that Elsa was in a much happier mood now. Meeting the Great Dragon and learning that he was indeed friendly had killed any nervous feelings from her.

He asked, "so how did you enjoy that, Elsa?"

Elsa smiled and said, "it was great! Meeting him was an absolute delight."

Albert smiled at her and said, "see, I told you that there was nothing to worry about."

Elsa chuckled and whispered, "you were right, sweety."

Albert chuckled with her.

But what they didn't know was that as they were walking down the Forbidden Trail, they were being watched. From behind a tall tree, a very familiar old woman stepped onto the path as they were walking away. The figure chuckled as they disappeared into the distance.

Looks like Ida was cooking up trouble….

She then turned towards the way they had come down, surely the Great Dragon was up there. Ida smiled evilly, she turned and started to walk up the Forbidden Trail. Soon she would have revenge on the Great Dragon for his actions and the noble soldiers whom he killed shall be avenged for their unjust murder.

Need we remind the readers how crazy Ida was.

Soon she reached the cave entrance.

Giving another evil smile, Ida entered. She walked through the tunnel until she reached the main cavern. She looked all around and saw nothing but a pile of deer, wolf and bear bones. But then she saw something in another corner of the cavern. She quickly rushed over to the corner to get a better look. When she got a clear look at it, she was enraged beyond reasoning.

It was a group of charred human skeletons, on top of their heads were some melted helmets. Ida immediately knew whose these were and it made her blood boil with rage.

That's when she heard a growling behind her.

The Great Dragon's voice growled out, "leave my home, witch."

Enraged, Ida spun around to confront him, there was no way she was going to let him get away with what he done to those brave and noble soldiers.

She looked up at him and said, "I'm not leaving here until I've slain you and avenged those brave and noble soldiers who you murdered in cold blood, you vile monster!"

The Great Dragon simply smacked her into the wall with his tail, growling, "more powerful wizards with darker hearts then you have tried and failed to do so!"

Ida struggled to her feet, out of wind but not out of the fight yet. Oh no, she was far from done with him. She then conjured a dark spell and cast it at the Great Dragon.

The Great Dragon blocked the spell with his wing, asking in a mocking tone, "is that the best you can do?"

Ida shrieked before she cast another dark spell, an even more powerful one this time round. The Great Dragon smashed it away with his tail!

He then said, "is that your best shot, well then let me show you mine."

His neck started to glow from within!

The Great Dragon then unleashed a massive jet of fire at Ida. Ida managed to shield herself with a spell of protection, however, the fire was very hot and powerful. It was really wearing her down until the Great Dragon's fire ceased.

The Great Dragon growled, "impressive…. For an old harpy like you."

Ida then said panting, "I'm not done with you yet."

The Great Dragon then said, I'm afraid that you are, witch."

He then uttered some words and suddenly Ida felt a strong jolt. She looked down at her feet and saw that much to her horror, a crystal was beginning to form around her.

She yelled, "what are you doing?!"

The Great Dragon growled, "killing you is too much of a mercy. Trapping you in this crystal for thousands of years will be a proper punishment for your wicked ways."

Ida tried to cast another spell, however, she was fully encased by the crystal. Feeling satisfied that the witch had been taken care off, the Great Dragon then uttered some words and the crystal disappeared. The Great Dragon had set it off to places unknown and hopefully wouldn't see her ever again.

The world seemed to finally be rid of the queen bitch.

….

Meanwhile, Albert and Elsa had made it back to their Ford Maverick.

Three hours later, they arrived back at their apartment. They had both just had a shower and were about to order a Domino's Pizza each. Albert had ordered a Texas BBQ with chicken wings and cookies whilst Elsa was having a Pepperoni Passion with chicken strips and cookies.

They were now currently waiting for the food to arrive.

They sat on the couch together, watching TV.

The movie they were both watching was Schindler's List, directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Liam Neeson and Ralph Fiennes. They enjoyed it very much.

They were pleased that a wealthy German industrialist and a member of the Nazi party no less, helped shelter and save over a thousand Polish Jews. A formerly greedy man who was horrified by the Nazi atrocities, he then decided to do the right thing and shelter them in his factory. Both Albert and Elsa later recalled how Oskar Schindler was later buried at Mount Zion in Jerusalem, the only member of the Nazi Party to have been done so.

It was actually a touching story, even despite the grim subject matter.

Albert then said, "remember when your great grandmother came in and caught us watching this?"

Elsa shuddered at the memory and saif, "I do remember how she flew into a rage when she discovered who it was about…."

Albert nodded and said, "and remember how she smashed the television, then struck you and broke my nose?"

Elsa said, "yep. And you promptly punched her in the face and tossed her out of the house for the night."

Albert nodded and said, "you remember how our fathers reacted to the whole thing?"

Elsa said, "do I ever. He tossed all of her clothes and books into a dumpster right before the garbage truck was supposed to make its rounds."

Albert then sighed and said, "that was when he shipped her off the the nursing home, right?"

Elsa nodded and said, "if only she stayed there."

Albert agreed with her as he saif, "too bad she did her preaching on Hitler and of how noble the Nazis were."

Elsa nodded in agreement.

Just then they both heard knocking on the front door, they both looked at each other knowing what it meant.

The food was here!

Albert then switched off the television before grabbing his wallet and opening the front to greet the Pizza man from Domino's. The Pizza man told Albert how much it would cost, Albert then handed him the money before taking the food and thanking him. Albert then brought the food into the kitchen where he saw Elsa already at the table with a bottle of Coca Cola each.

Albert gave her a smile and said, "dinner is served."

Elsa smiled back and said, "thanks, sweety."

The young couple then sat down to eat their dinner and to enjoy each others company. Domino's Pizza was after all one of the things, other than Dungeons and Dragons, which brought them together and caused them to fall in love. However, unbeknownst to them, this would be the last time ever that they would get to enjoy the delicious taste of Domino's Pizza, for tomorrow something was going to happen….

The end of Man's place as the dominant species.

But it wasn't just the end of man's dominance over the Earth, what happened tomorrow would also be the end of science and technology.

And all of this would cause the return of magic….

….

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