Crown 10: The Tale of King Arlof and Queen Hilary
Following the reign of Llewellyn and Elena, an omen appeared in the sky, in the form of a triskele shaped cloud. It was then that Prince Arlof (later known as Sir Arturus, Count of Aranmore) and Princess Hilary appeared, mounted on a horse clad in knotwork barding. The figure of death appeared, and Arlof rode to do battle with him. Only later that day did he return, to claim the throne for he and his lady.
In this ancient reign, set in the year 500, the presence of druids, romans and bards was ever present. Early on, their majesties were threatened with a druidic prophecy. But first came many great deeds, including the building of the Cadbury Camp Fort Reconstruction at Pennsic, the launch of the Royal Trimarian Navy, The Founding of the Fools Parade at Pennsic, and not least, a stunning victory over the combined might of Atlantia and Meridies at Fools War III. At Pennsic, the King sided with the outnumbered Midrealm, and he and his knights delivered a victory in the woods battle over the Eastern kingdom.
Arlof and Hilary are perhaps best remembered for the method of their passing. To protect them, their noble fool, Harry Pudding, drank poison intended for King Arlof. As he died, Arlof followed the druid into the otherworld, then stopped to sing of love to his lady, who joined him. Many tears were shed.
Softly to the sound of the harp and the lyre
came the warrior-bard
King Arlof
and much joy brought he in song and merriment.
Loved was he, uncommon for kings
but not for bards.
Yet he was a dread lord of war when stirred to wrath.
He humbled the kings of Meridies and Atlantia when outnumbered,
and even stole victory from sure defeat
by bearding the Eastern King in northern lands.
He gave his life for the land and it bears his mark.
And Hilary was his queen.
And Arlof sleeps in Avalon’s mists.
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