Iolaus sets off on his own and finds his true destiny.
Warrior. Hunter. Archer. Friend to Hercules. A brief and vague description of the man who was always with Hercules. 'The man who's always with Hercules,' Iolaus thought to himself. That's what his life had come to. He had always thought it was enough to be Hercules' friend, but lately he felt more and more like it was not enough.
Something was telling him there was more he had to do; there was more to this life than just following Hercules around, which is exactly what he thought he was doing. He could not explain what it was that was giving him these thoughts, but he had become full of self-doubt that all the good he had done in his life went unnoticed by anyone. Hercules got the shrines. Hercules got the thank yous. Hercules got the free meals. It seemed to Iolaus that he had no identity, he was simply 'the guy with Hercules.'
Oh, he had been through like this before, and had some productive sessions of feeling sorry for himself, but now? Now he wanted to do something about it. When he had felt like this in the past, he merely griped for a while, got it out of his system, then went on as if nothing was wrong. Not this time.
He spent this starry night sitting alone at his campfire, evaluating his life, wondering where this new obsession was coming from. Why all of a sudden did he not want to travel with Hercules? That had always been enough for him, but now he wanted his own life, his own adventures, and his own chance to be recognized for something...anything!
That is why earlier this day Iolaus said good-bye to his lifelong friend and set off on his own into the Greek countryside. He did not know what fate awaited him or even where he was headed, he just walked all day, lost in his thoughts, not seeing another human being. Now he sat in this place alone. He missed his friend, but also had a compelling need to do this -- whatever THIS was.
He stirred the fire with a stick and added another log. He was sure he would see Hercules again, but right now he did not know when or where. Something he could not explain was calling him away from the only life he had known. He hoped to find his answers along his new path.
In these days, there existed a kingdom; a land spread out far and wide. It was ruled by a king many considered to be their kindest ever, even more fair and just than his father, if that was possible. He ruled with a fair hand, having become king when he inherited the throne at age 18 after his father was thrown from a horse and killed. He was still a very young king at 25, but he had learned well while his father was living.
It was this kingdom of Elis that Iolaus came upon in the mid-afternoon one week after he left Hercules. He was stopped outside the castle by two guards.
"Who goes there? State your name."
"I am Iolaus."
"What is your business here?
Iolaus tried to think of an answer. "I dunno, I'm just passing through."
One of the guards approached Iolaus, looked into eyes, then looked back at his fellow guardsman. Then he glared at Iolaus for a long moment while looking him up and down. "Perhaps you would enjoy a meal."
Iolaus was uncomfortable with the scrutiny, but he was hungry and thought it couldn't hurt to accept their hospitality. He nodded, "Yes, I'd like that very much."
He was led across a drawbridge and into the castle by one of the guards, then taken to a long table with some twenty chairs around it. He was on his guard, unsure whether to trust these men and this place. Several guards came into the large room and sat around the table. A younger man, slightly taller than Iolaus, arrived and sat and the head of the table to Iolaus' right.
"I heard we had a visitor," he smiled. "Welcome to Elis."
"Thank you," Iolaus said. He felt conspicuous as he felt all of the guards' eyes looking at him, then to their king, then back at him.
"I am King Osephius. What brings you to my kingdom?"
Iolaus wasn't sure how to answer their questions about why he was here; he was simply here. "Well, I'm just a traveler...you know...out seeking new adventures." He looked around the table at the guards, still aware that they were staring at him.
"Will you be staying long?" the king asked.
"No, not really. I wouldn't be here now, except your guards invited me in."
"Ah yes, that would be Raymos and Enon. Well, I'm glad you're here...Iolaus."
Iolaus smiled and began to eat once everyone else was eating. Bowls of venison and vegetables were passed around the table, and Iolaus didn't remember when he had eaten such a feast. Whoever these people were, they certainly ate well.
"You will at least spend the night, won't you?" Osephius asked.
"Well, I..."
A guard said, "We have a room here in the castle for you. You are welcome to stay as long as you like."
"Okay," Iolaus said, "Since you put it that way, I'll guess it wouldn't hurt to stay the night."
It seemed to Iolaus that all of the guards, even the king, had been holding their breath and let it out at the same time. He thought this was odd, but he really would welcome a soft bed as a change from the hard ground. He continued eating, being handed more food before he could finish what was on his plate.
When all present had finished eating, the king said, "Iolaus, would you like a tour of the castle?"
"Well...sure," Iolaus answered. He wondered if they treated all travelers this well. He smiled to himself, thinking that Hercules was not even with him, and they did not even know that Iolaus was a friend of his. He was more used to being treated this way with he was with Hercules, but he decided to simply accept their hospitality.
The young king with light brown hair and dark, kind eyes walked slowly through the castle with Iolaus at his side. He was obviously proud of his home. Iolaus learned that it had been in his family for many generations. He listened as the king proudly told of his heritage and the history of the castle, how one section was the oldest and another section was added on just two years ago. It was an impressive place, full of fine furnishings that the king told him were gifts from other kingdoms.
"And this is my sword room," the king said as he stepped to his left from the corridor.
Iolaus' eyes lit up in awe of the massive collection of swords displayed on the walls. One in particular stood out from the others and caught his eye. It hung directly across the room from the entrance, above the fireplace.
"Ah, I see you've noticed the Elis sword," the king said.
"It's a beauty," Iolaus smiled.
"Yes it is. It's been handed down through many generations of my family." The king looked at Iolaus' sword. "I see you appreciate fine weaponry."
"Oh...well...yeah, but my sword doesn't begin to compare with this one."
The pair moved on through the castle. Iolaus listened to the king explaining where different items had come from, but his thoughts were still on the sword. There was something about it, he had no idea what, that was -- he couldn't describe what he felt. Maybe something familiar? He was at a loss to explain it, but he felt some sort of odd connection to this sword that had probably been hanging there for dozens of years. He had never been to this part of Greece and didn't know of any logical reason why the sword would mean anything to him. He shrugged it off as being weary from travel, and allowed his brain to once again hear what the king was saying.
"You must be tired, Iolaus. Perhaps you would like to retire."
This sounded good to Iolaus. "I would, King Osephius. It's been a long day."
"Then come. I'll show you to your room. Iolaus, when we're alone, you can call me Millos. I never liked being called King Osephius. It sounds so...stuffy." He smiled.
Iolaus laughed, "Okay, Millos, if you say so." In that, he reminded Iolaus of his late cousin, King Orestes.
"Here we are," the king said as they arrived at Iolaus' room. Sleep well, and if there's anything you need, just let one of the guards know."
"Okay, I will, and thanks for the tour." Iolaus went into the spacious room feeling like royalty himself. He remembered the last time he had been treated this well was at King Orestes' palace. He thought of Queen Niobe and wondered what she was doing at this very minute. He would love to visit her, but his familiar face in that kingdom would raise too many questions.
He looked around the room he was now in and saw a wooden tub filled with hot water sitting in front of the blazing fire in the hearth. He sat on the bed, removed his vest and boots, and walked to the tub. He thought about it a minute and decided he could use a bath after all the days of travel. He removed his leather pants and stepped into the tub, basking in the comfort of it all.
It sure was a far cry from bathing in cold rivers, which he avoided as much as he could. He smiled at the thought of Hercules sometimes tossing him into rivers in an effort to get him to clean up. Looking around the room from this vantage point, he saw several wall sconces that held small burning torches, and burning candles sat on the small tables. He knew that at this moment, no matter what Hercules was doing, it did not compare to this!
Iolaus finally stepped out of the tub, dried off in front of the fire, extinguished all of the torches and candles, and crawled into the warm bed. What a relief to his travel-weary body to have such comfort. He realized he was smiling. His belly was full, he was warm and comfortable, and he was very glad he went on this adventure. While listening to the crackling fire, he fell asleep and slept like he hadn't slept in ages.
He awoke early the next morning to voices outside. Not wanting to get up, he stayed where he was until finally he walked over to the window and looked out. A few guards were going somewhere on horses. He dressed and looked at the fire that had burned itself out, leaving a chill in the air. Opening the door and stepping into the corridor, he saw that no one was in sight, so he headed to where he had eaten the previous night.
"Iolaus," a voice said. It was the king. "I'm glad to see you up and about so early."
Iolaus smiled. "Good morning, Millos. I slept so well that I really didn't want to get up."
"I trust that your accommodations were up to your customary standard?"
"My...?" Iolaus hesitated, his eyebrows darting skyward. "Oh, yes...yes, my accommodations were very much in keeping with what I am used to." He smiled and followed the king to breakfast where the two dined alone.
"So," Iolaus said a few minutes into the meal, "I've enjoyed your hospitality very much, but I must move on today."
"Why leave so soon, Iolaus?"
"Well, I can't stay here forever. As much as I'd like to, I really must leave."
The king nodded, then looked thoughtfully at Iolaus. The king did not say anything, but Iolaus sensed that something was not quite right here. They finished eating and the king said, "Come with me, Iolaus. I have something to show you."
They proceeded to the library that Iolaus had seen during the previous night's tour. The king motioned for him to sit in a large, overstuffed chair, opposite an identical chair that faced it.
"Iolaus," the king said, then began to pace back and forth across the room, "I have to tell you something."
Iolaus nodded. "I'm all ears," he joked.
The king smiled. He really liked this man who was so nonchalant about everything. Always able to 'read' people, King Osephius knew that this was a man who had nothing to hide. He sensed that Iolaus was a 'what you see is what you get' sort of man, and he liked that about him. This ability to know peoples' hearts and souls allowed the king to surround himself with guards and others he could trust. For an instant, he wished Iolaus would be able to remain here as a guard, but he knew that Iolaus had a different life outside this kingdom. He was in such a hurry to go elsewhere.
"Iolaus," he said, "My kingdom is old, very old. We have known peace here as far back as anyone can remember. I have a new threat from a distant neighbor, a King Enos of Trikkala. He is a monster, and he is spreading evil in every direction outward from his miserable kingdom, trying to conquer as many kingdoms as he can." He stopped pacing and turned to look directly at Iolaus. "He has crossed the Pindus Mountains and is spreading terror far and wide. I cannot let him take my kingdom, Iolaus! I have a small army that is simply no match for him."
Iolaus listened intently as the king told him this, wondering why he would be telling a virtual stranger these things, rather than discussing strategies with his own guards and soldiers.
The king resumed his pacing and continued. "A young king is generally thought of as a vulnerable, inexperienced king, but I assure you that is not the case with me. I have managed to keep the peace here for many years since my father was killed. My army has always served me well and has been adequate for the purposes of my kingdom. Until now." He stopped pacing, looked at Iolaus, then looked to the other side of the room.
"Come with me, Iolaus," the king said, as he walked toward a shelf of books. He pulled a rope hidden just out of sight. A latch released and the shelf swung inward to reveal a small, hidden room.
Iolaus stood and followed the king into the room. The king lit a torch inside and closed the door behind them. Sitting on a tall podium was a very thick book, covered with dust. The king blew on it, sending dust flying, then opened it to the center. He turned a few pages of parchment, stopped on one particular page, and motioned Iolaus closer.
Iolaus looked at the king who was now staring at him, then stepped tentatively toward the podium. What he saw caused his mouth to drop open in shock. He was looking at a drawing...a perfectly drawn, full-page portrait of...himself!
The two were silent for a long minute until Iolaus spoke hesitantly. "I don't understand," he said. This was a book of royalty, added to throughout history. He thought this drawing must be of King Orestes.
"Come," the king said. He extinguished the torch and they returned to the library. Iolaus sat down again and the king did the same, facing Iolaus. He thought to himself as he collected his words. "Iolaus, in my kingdom there is a legend as old as the land itself. It has been handed down through generations. As you see, I do not have a family, but when I marry one day, I will pass the legend to my children."
"What is this legend?" Iolaus asked.
"In the book you saw, it tells of a stranger who one day comes to this land and saves it from an evil power. It has never been known when this would occur, but it has been foretold for millennia. The legend was finally written down many years ago in the book you saw. The portrait was drawn by a seer and...well, you saw it for yourself."
Iolaus nodded.
The king continued. "The legend says that there will be an attempt to conquer this kingdom by an evil king and his ruthless army. But, a traveling stranger with no royal status, no worldy possessions or even wealth would save the kingdom. A kind and giving man, he would share what he has in order that the kingdom would be saved from this conquering army."
Iolaus took all this in. "But if you're referring to me, I don't have anything," he said.
"Ah, but there's where you're wrong, my friend. You DO have something."
Iolaus shook his head. "I still don't understand."
"The legend says that only one man has the strength and power to handle the Elis sword. The one true stranger who will save my kingdom will be able to remove the sword from where it rests."
"You mean it's stuck to the wall?" Iolaus asked.
The king laughed. "Well, you could say that. It was placed there centuries ago and has never been moved. Oh, people have tried, myself included, but to no avail. It remains permanently stuck there, as you put it, awaiting the day when 'the one true hero' would arrive and use it to save the kingdom."
Iolaus reeled in this information and sat back in his chair. "Millos, I'm just one man. I can't fight an entire army."
"You are wrong again, Iolaus. The legend says that you will triumph without any blood being shed by either side."
Iolaus sprang up out of his chair. "Wait wait wait..." He put his arms out in front of himself , palms toward the king, as if to make him stop telling him these things. "You're telling me that I can take this sword, fight an entire army, and no will be hurt or killed?"
"So it is written, Iolaus. No one knows how this will happen, only that it will happen. Until now, it wasn't even known WHEN it would happen, but for the first time in our recorded history, we are faced with an evil enemy threatening to kill my people and the people of other kingdoms along his path. He plans to take over as many kingdoms as he can, leaving death and destruction everywhere. Now is the time, Iolaus, and you are that stranger who was sent here to save us."
Iolaus felt the king's dark eyes piercing into his very soul. He looked away and mumbled to himself, "Wow, I'm surprised it isn't Hercules' portrait in that book."
"What did you say?" the king asked.
Iolaus turned back to the king. "Oh, um...I was just thinking out loud."
"When my guards saw you yesterday, they couldn't believe it. Everyone knows of the legend and what the stranger looks like. His description is written in vivid detail in the book. 'A man small in stature, with eyes the color of the sky and hair the color of the sun.' That doesn't describe anyone I have ever seen, Iolaus, until yesterday."
Iolaus scratched the back of his head. "Boy, this is a lot to live up to."
"These are dark days for my kingdom, Iolaus, for mine and all Hellenes. You are destined for greatness. You are destined to save a country."
Iolaus took a deep breath. "Wow," was all he could say.
King Osephius smiled as Iolaus sat heavily in the chair, mulling over what he had been told.
"So, what do we do?" he asked, his voice higher pitched than usual as he realized he had become a bit nervous about the task ahead.
"My army has scouted far to the east and tell me King Enos' army is fast approaching. They are many and they are heavily armed. I am told that even by combining my forces with my neighbors, we are no match. We are too heavily outnumbered. So, to answer your question, Iolaus, we start in the sword room."
A chill crept through Iolaus' entire body at the realization of what was expected of him. Never had he been called upon to do such an extraordinary thing. As one man against an entire army, the odds were stacked so high against him that he could not see past tomorrow. On the other hand, there was something about this legend, this entire kingdom he had stumbled upon, that somehow seemed...RIGHT. Still, he could not explain it anymore than he could explain what led him here in the first place.
"Iolaus, please give me five minutes," the king said.
Iolaus laughed nervously. "Sure take all the time you need, Millos."
King Osephius left the library, leaving Iolaus alone. He stood up and paced around the room, looking at the room's large desk and other furnishings, but not being mentally aware of anything. He only knew he was growing more nervous by the minute. He took a deep breath. "Okay, Iolaus," he told himself, "Calm down." He had often used meditation techniques to get himself through trouble, and now he called upon all of his inner strength to calm down and focus. He realized his hands were shaking as he nervously wrung them together. "Calm down...breathe slowly...breathe deeply." Just then, someone said his name and he jumped, a sound escaping from his throat.
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to startle you," the king said. "Come," he motioned from the doorway.
Iolaus followed him out of the library to where a dozen guards were standing in the corridor. They looked in awe of Iolaus, some smiling, some merely staring. He felt like he was being stared at a lot in this place.
Iolaus entered the nearby sword room behind the king, and the guards filed in behind them as well. Several guards were already there. The king held his arm up toward the sword over the hearth, nodding toward it while looking at Iolaus. "Please, Iolaus, remove the sword." The tension in the room could be sliced with a knife.
Iolaus looked at the king, then at about twenty very tall guards who were watching his every move, then up at the sword. "Okay," he said, and dried his sweating palms on his vest, his heart racing. "Do you, uh...have a chair I could stand on?" he asked.
The heavy tension was eased when the guards laughed. The king smiled and motioned for a guard to bring a chair to the hearth.
"Uh, thank you," Iolaus said to the guard. He stood on the chair and not a sound was heard. It seemed that all those present were holding their breath while this man, small in stature, eyes the color of the sky and hair the color of the sun, reached for the Elis sword.
Effortlessly, Iolaus lifted the sword from where it was placed hundreds of years ago and had not been moved since, awaiting the day when the one true stranger would fulfill the legend.
Now, on this day, the deed was done. Iolaus stepped off the chair and held the sword handle in his right hand and the blade in his left hand, admiring the beauty of this perfectly forged weapon. A ray of sun shone into the room at that moment and glistened brightly off the sword's blade. The hero of Elis was found!
The guards breathed again, laughed, slapped each other on the back and shook hands. One of them ran out of the room and into the village to spread the news. Minutes later, the village bell was ringing in celebration.
"Well done, Iolaus," the king said softly so that only Iolaus heard him over the commotion the guards were making.
Iolaus smiled broadly, no longer as nervous as he had been.
"Come," the king said to everyone present," Let us celebrate with food and drink, for tomorrow we march!"
The guards left the room while the king crossed to a far corner and pulled yet another hidden rope. Iolaus figured the castle must be full of hidden ropes and hidden rooms. The king stepped into, then out of, a room behind a paneled wall. He had picked up a brown leather sheath, blew dust off of it, then wiped it with a cloth. Then he said, "This has not been used since the sword was placed there above the hearth, Iolaus." He looked it over carefully and said, "It looks like it's still useable, however," and handed it to Iolaus.
Iolaus slid the sword into the sheath and said, "I'll take good care of it."
"I'm sure you will. Let's go celebrate."
The food and drink were plentiful. Iolaus filled up on more venison, rabbit and fruit, but he declined the wine and ale. Whatever fate awaited him tomorrow, he wanted to be fully alert. If he was to die at the hands of a huge advancing army, it would not be because he was hung over and not one-hundred percent alert. He knew that Hercules would never forgive him if he went and got himself killed.
The day passed. The king delighted in taking Iolaus on a tour of the entire village with the sword hanging at Iolaus' side. Everywhere they went people thanked Iolaus, wished him well and offered him free food. He had to admit that this must be what Hercules always felt like, for it was always Hercules who was treated this way, while Iolaus was often overlooked. He was always at Hercules' side fighting the good fight, but he often felt like he was in the background, or left in Hercules' shadow when it came time for recognition.
But not this time. Today, it was Iolaus' turn to shine, and shine he did. He was a little embarrassed by all of the attention, but he knew that these people were counting on him to fight an army.
Then reality hit him like a thunderclap from the sky: how in Tartarus was he going to do that?
As evening approached, Iolaus walked with the king back to the castle and they settled in the library once again. Iolaus decided that of the forty or so rooms he saw during his tour, this must be the king's favorite room. The king's royal robe reminded Iolaus of his time spent in Attica and Marathon, helping Orestes. He had such bittersweet memories of that time. He was saddened that his cousin had been killed just when he was learning how to be a good king and husband. The memory of falling in love with Queen Niobe, but having to leave her to rule her kingdom left him heartbroken as well, but he knew it was the right thing for each of them.
The king stood facing Iolaus, then spoke. "Iolaus, what I am asking you to do...what my people and my neighboring kingdoms are asking you to do...is far more important than anything that has ever happened here. I don't know what tomorrow will bring, but I want to thank you in advance for your part in it." He then sat down.
Iolaus removed the sheathed sword from his belt, stood it next to himself against the chair and sat down. He nodded, then said seriously, "You know, all my life I have wondered why I was here, what purpose I have in the world, you know, that sort of thing. I guess most people ask themselves that sooner or later." He thought a few seconds as the king nodded, then continued.
"I have a best friend I've known all my life. He's very big and very strong and we usually travel together. Well, the thing is, he gets all the credit for anything good we ever do. I've always felt there was something for me alone, a sort of destiny awaiting me somewhere. I've always known it, and now, I know I was right. It was this all along." He looked at the sword. I sure don't know WHY I was chosen to do this, but this sword, this kingdom, the portrait of me in your book, it all drew me here to this place at this time." He took a breath. "Tomorrow I will fulfill my destiny...whatever that may be, and well...I just hope it turns out like you hope."
"You are a good man, Iolaus. Your friend is lucky to have you as his friend. Maybe this time it's your turn to get all the credit."
Iolaus smiled at the king and said softly, "Thank you."
"Now, I think we'd better turn in. We march at daybreak." The king accompanied Iolaus to his room and said good night.
For the first time all day, Iolaus was alone for more than a few minutes. He stood the sword against the wall and laid on the bed. Another fresh tub of water had been placed in front of the fireplace, but to Iolaus, last night's bath was enough to last for a while. Then he changed his mind. The people here had been so kind to him. If they were willing to heat water for him, he would use it. So he got into the tub once again, wondering if this would be the last bath he would ever take. Right now he only hoped to live long enough for Hercules to toss him into another freezing river.
He thought of the day's events: the village bell ringing just for him, the celebration for him, and as far as he was concerned, he had not even done anything yet. But he knew that to the people here, he had accomplished a miracle when he removed the sword from the wall. He smiled when he remembered what the king had said, that so many others had tried over the years, but no one had ever been successful. The legend was true: only one traveling stranger, one special hero, would ever be afforded the honor, and here that hero was, sitting naked in a tub! He smiled to himself.
Iolaus emerged from the tub when the water was getting too cool, then stood in front of the fire to dry. He crawled into bed, silently hoping this would not be his last night on Earth. He thought about Hercules and he missed him, but Iolaus had known this was something he had to do; take a break from his routine and strike out on his own. From what King Osephius had told him, his timing was perfect. He did not know what he had gotten himself into, but he would certainly find out tomorrow.
Well into the night when all was quiet, Iolaus awoke to a noise close by. Realizing that someone was in his room, he sat up quickly, planted his feet on the floor and pulled the sheet around his waist. "Who's there?"
A shadowy figure grabbed the Elis sword and was immediately thrown to the floor as if struck by lightning. His hands were burned and he screamed out in pain.
Iolaus ran across the room and knelt next to him as guards carrying torches ran into the room. "Iolaus, are you okay?" one of the guards shouted.
"I'm fine," Iolaus answered. "I think one of your guards was trying to steal the sword."
Two of the guards held their torches closer to the man who was sitting on the floor. "Is that true, Demos? You tried to steal the sword?"
The guard named Demos was still in shock. "I...I...just wanted to..."
Approaching from out of nowhere, King Osephius said, "Why, Demos?"
"Your Highness, I'm sorry. I was curious about the sword, that's all."
"In the middle of the night? Well, Demos, your curiousity almost got you killed. Take him to the healer and see to his hands."
The guards helped their fallen comrade to his feet and led him out of Iolaus' room.
"Post a guard outside this room for the rest of the night," the king instructed.
Iolaus stood up slowly, keeping the sheet tucked around his waist, as the king apologized. "I'm sorry, Iolaus. I hope you were not injured."
"No, Millos, I'm fine. I guess I can understand his curiousity." He stood the sword back up and leaned it against the wall. "This sword is so important in your kingdom, that I imagine a lot of people are curious about it."
"That it does, my friend. I couldn't sleep and just happened to be walking by when I heard Damos scream out. Well, no one will bother you again tonight."
"You're not going to punish Damos, are you?"
The king smiled. "No, Iolaus, my guards are my friends. Sometimes they're my stupid friends, but my friends nonetheless. Damos' shame is punishment enough for him. Good night."
Iolaus smiled and laid down. He liked this king. The full moon shone brightly into his room. He glared at the outline of the sword standing across the room, realizing that he had been brought here for a very special purpose. Lost in his thoughts, he felt like he had just fallen asleep when there was a knock on his door.
"Iolaus? We march in a half hour," a guard's voice said.
Iolaus groaned, not wanting to wake up yet. A couple more hours in this warm, comfortable bed would be perfect.
"Iolaus?" the voice repeated.
He lifted his head and yelled toward the door, "Okay, I'm up," then his head fell back onto the pillow. Finally, he sat on the edge of the bed and put his feet on the floor. He looked at the sword and said, "Well, this is it. Today's the day I either save a country or die in the process. I sure hope it's the former!" He dressed, took the sword and left the room.
"Good morning, Iolaus," the guard who had been standing watch said.
Iolaus scratched the back of his head. "Good morning," he yawned. It was barely sunrise and the castle was still dark. He made his way to the dining area where biscuits and fruit awaited him.
The king arrived moments later. "Iolaus, you are a brave man," he offered.
Iolaus laughed, what little laughter he could muster at such a dreadful hour. "I just hope I don't let you down, Millos."
The king was surprised at this remark. "Iolaus, no matter what happens today, you will not have let anyone down. I have many brave men in my army, but none like you. You came here as a stranger, and now you are fulfilling a prophecy that was written centuries ago. Whatever you do today, know that you are an exceptional person. I am proud to call you my friend."
"Thank you," Iolaus answered. "You know, one time I filled in for the King of Attica, but just for a while. It's a long story, but if I had stayed there as their king, it would have been a lie. I have no royal blood; I just had a royal cousin who was the king and desperately needed my help to keep peace in his kingdom. He was killed and, well, like I said, it's a long story." Iolaus was not even sure why he mentioned this incident, except that being in this place reminded him so much of that time.
The king nodded. "So see, Iolaus? You have always been destined for great things. Sometimes it doesn't take royal blood to rule a kingdom with wisdom and courage."
They finished eating, Iolaus hooked the sheathed sword to his belt and they walked outside to join the waiting men. Iolaus was prepared for a long walk or a long ride on a horse. He did not know how far they would be going, but the king had other plans.
"Iolaus, you will join me in my coach," he smiled.
Iolaus nodded and climbed in after the king. He recalled that the last time he had ridden in a royal coach was with Queen Niobe. "Thank you," he said after he sat down.
They rode on in silence heading east. Iolaus suddenly had an overwhelming desire to see Hercules, who was many days travel away. 'What would he say about all this?' Iolaus silently asked himself. He smiled and hoped to live long enough to tell his best friend about the events of this week. Iolaus also realized that he felt surprisingly calm; so calm, in fact, that he fell asleep as they rocked along the road.
The king let him sleep, unsure of what was going to happen today. The story written so long ago would at last be completed on this day. It would be his own legacy as well as Iolaus' destiny.
Iolaus slept on and off throughout the long ride. Late in the afternoon, he awoke when the carriage suddenly stopped and there was a commotion outside.
A guard opened the carriage door from the outside. "Your Highness, King Enos' army is ahead."
King Osephius and Iolaus exchanged a glance toward each other, then each stepped outside. Along with the guards, the king and Iolaus looked ahead to a large clearing where the enemy army stood. "There must be hundreds of them!" the guard named Lester exclaimed.
The king stepped forward and walked toward the enemy.
"King Osephius, stop!" Iolaus shouted. "You can't go out there alone."
"I must talk with King Enos. I must stop this war before it starts."
"Then let me go with you," Iolaus demanded.
The king thought while he looked at the huge army up ahead. "Okay." He then looked at the Elis sword, now strapped to Iolaus' side, for reassurance.
The pair approached the army comprised of what must have been hundreds of heavily armed men. "King Enos," King Osephius yelled across the land, "I must talk with you."
"I do not talk," the king yelled back, "I conquer!"
"You might be in over your head this time. You cannot simply criss-cross the countryside conquering kingdoms. Someone, somewhere is going to stop you and your army."
"And who might that someone be? What army is big enough to stop me?"
"This army!" Iolaus stated, and he stepped right in front of King Osephius.
The king had not heard or seen him unsheath the sword, but there it was in Iolaus' hands.
King Enos laughed and his men who were within hearing range laughed as well. "You and that sword? What are you, a one-man army?" This drew even louder laughter from his men.
"Yeah," Iolaus replied, holding his ground, "Me and this sword are going to beat you back to where you came from."
King Enos' men continued laughing, as their king said, "Well, I don't know who you are, Shorty, but prepare to die!" The king raised his sword to give his troops the command to attack.
At the same time, Iolaus raised the Elis sword straight over his head, holding it with both hands. He suddenly realized it was very heavy and he would not be able to hold it like this for very long. Adrenelin was helping him, but he also felt another force at work here; something unseen, but there nevertheless.
"No, King Enos, you have it all wrong," Iolaus shouted. "Before we're through, you will know who I am. And you're the one who had better prepare to die!" Iolaus sliced the sword through the air forward and down. The instant it touched the ground, an electrical lightning charge lashed out in front of him, spread across the clearing, and knocked the entire enemy army off their feet.
Iolaus held fast to the sword until every soldier was down. Lightning continued to flare out from the sword, and the enemy troops were rendered motionless. King Osephius and his men remained unaffected and unharmed behind Iolaus.
At last, the lightning subsided, and the stunned King Enos stared at this man and his sword. He did not know what just happened; he only knew he could not move and could not speak.
Iolaus lifted the sword off the ground and held it aloft in his right hand. "My name is Iolaus!" he exclaimed to the army. Then even louder, he repeated, "MY NAME IS IOLAUS!"
King Enos was finally able to move and was the first to get to his feet. "Retreat!" he yelled to his troops, "Retreat!"
"King Enos," Iolaus yelled, "You try to conquer anymore kingdoms, and you will have to go through me."
The king turned and ran to his carriage.
Shouts came up from King Osephius' men. Cheers of "Iolaus, you did it! Iolaus, you're a hero!" filled the air.
Iolaus lowered the sword and took a huge breath.
"Well done, Iolaus," King Osepheis said, "Well done." The king, still standing behind Iolaus, put his hand on Iolaus' shoulder.
Iolaus turned, looked at the king and smiled. He let out a huge sigh of relief and his shoulders slumped forward with the weight of the sword and with what just happened.
King Osephius and his small group of men camped nearby for the night, then headed back to Elis at first light. A messenger had sped ahead to spread the news about the victory. As the king's entourage approached the castle, the village bell was ringing madly. A crowd was cheering loudly. The stranger in their land had saved their kingdom and their lives. The one man in all the world who could save their kingdom had brought the legend full circle. There would not be a person alive who would not hear of this man's heroics.
The king knew what his own next task would be but it could wait for now. He, his closest guards and Iolaus entered the castle and proceeded to the large table once again, ready to eat a victory meal. All were alive, all were well, and a glass of celebratory wine was poured for each of them.
They grew silent as the king stood at the head of the table, glass of wine in hand. "We have among us the very man who was spoken of hundreds of years ago. The man who would save our kingdom from an evil enemy. Let his name be forever recorded and remembered throughout Greece and the world. Iolaus, the true bearer of the sword of Elis. A hero brave and strong. From this day forward let the name Iolaus be forever spoken with honor! To Iolaus!"
"To Iolaus," the king's friends replied in unison, and they all toasted their hero.
Iolaus smiled, still overwhelmed by all of the attention. "Thank you."
"Now, let's eat," the king smiled.
After another hearty meal, the king once again accompanied Iolaus through the corridors to the library. Iolaus sat down and the king went into the little hidden room. He retrieved the book, brought it out and placed it on his desk. "Iolaus, what you did for us today, for me, for my kingdom and all of the surrounding kingdoms is a miracle. I will be forever in your debt, and you will be forever recorded in the Elis Book of History." He walked away from the desk and sat across from Iolaus.
"Well," Iolaus said, "I guess I finally found the answers I have been looking for, and I'm glad I was able to help." Iolaus was tired, but enjoyed relaxing here with the king.
King Osephius noticed that Iolaus looked exhausted and offered, "I'm sure you would like to rest now. I will see you in the morning."
On the way to his room, Iolaus stopped in the sword room, took the chair he had stood on three days ago, put it in front of the fireplace, and returned the sword to its rightful place. He went on to his room where still another tub of water awaited him. Two baths in as many days were all he could tolerate, but once again he caved in and decided he could not let these good people down. Once again he undressed and climbed into the tub. He was not even sure who was heating the water and filling it each evening, but he was grateful to be so well taken care of.
It had been an incredibly long few days, and this hot water actually felt good to him. He would be leaving in the morning, so he relished every moment of luxury. Again, he thought of Hercules and wondered how he was doing. He also wondered how he would ever tell him of this incredible chapter in his life. Would Hercules even believe him?
The water was getting cold, so he climbed out, dried off in front of the fire again and fell into bed exhausted, but feeling like it was a good kind of exhausted. He was asleep immediately. In the middle of the night, he was startled awake by a nightmare of being attacked by hundreds of enemy soldiers. Realizing he was safe, he fell asleep again while trying to think of more pleasant things. He thought of fishing with Hercules...he thought of Queen Niobe...and he was fast asleep.
Once again morning arrived too soon and he was up and dressed early. He went to the dining area where the king and his guards were already waiting for him.
"We know you are leaving us today," the king said, "And I want to extend my thanks once again."
"You're welcome," Iolaus replied.
"I wish I could convince you to stay, however. My people would welcome you with open arms."
"King Osephius, your people have already welcomed me with open arms. I don't think I've ever been treated so...like royalty before." He hesitated, "Well, except in Attica, but that was different."
The guards laughed.
The king laughed as well. You ARE like royalty, Iolaus, and you are always welcome here. I like you, Iolaus. Besides being a hero, you have a wonderful sense of humor."
Heads nodded in agreement around the table. Iolaus felt his face turning red, but also noticed Demos with his hands still bandaged. "Demos, I hope your hands will be okay," he offered.
Demos answered, "I'm sure they'll be fine, and I'm sorry for disturbing you the other night."
When they finished eating, the king walked with Iolaus through the castle one last time. Iolaus assumed they would relax in the library for a short time before he had to head out; however, this time they were accompanied by all of the guards. When they reached the sword room, Iolaus kept going, but the king stepped inside. "Iolaus," he said, "This way."
Iolaus turned around and went into the sword room, with the guards on his heels.
The king reached over the hearth and removed the sword. Its destiny fulfilled, it lifted right off the supporting hooks. "This is for you, Iolaus," he said, and held the sword horizontally out to Iolaus.
Iolaus was stunned. "I can't accept this, King Osephius." He waved his hand in the direction of the hearth. "It belongs here."
"It belonged here. But now, you are the rightful heir to the sword of Elis. It belongs with you, a brave warrior and hero."
"If I may, your Highness?" Lester asked.
"Of course, Lester."
"Iolaus, you saved our kingdom, our lives. This is the least we can offer you. My wife and baby would have been killed if King Enos' army had gotten this far."
"Yeah, that's right," came the voice of Raymos. "All of our families were in mortal danger."
Iolaus nodded and smiled at the king's guards. "Then I would be honored to accept it."
The king handed the sword to Iolaus, along with the leather sheath. Iolaus put the sword in the sheath, then fastened it to his belt. He looked around the room, then suddenly removed the sword from the sheath and walked into the center of the guards. "Demos, would you like to hold the sword?"
The tall guard's mouth fell open as he accepted Iolaus' kind offer. "Yes...yes I would." He smiled broadly and held it out for the other guards to see as well. They moved in more closely around Demos and admired this weapon that he proudly held. Each of them had seen the sword before, of course, but only hanging on the wall, and then briefly after Iolaus had removed it and had taken it to the battlefield.
Finally, Demos returned the sword to Iolaus. "Thank you," he smiled.
The guards disbursed into the corridor and the king asked Iolaus, "Where will you go now, my friend?"
Iolaus answered without missing a beat, "To find my best friend. He's a week's travel from here."
"Iolaus, you know my village sculptor, Praxiteles, is already planning to do a statue in your honor. And Sappho, the poet...the word is that she was seen writing frantically when we toured the village."
"Really?" Iolaus asked, very surprised. Then he smiled. 'A statue just for me,' he thought. 'The sculptor doesn't even know what Herc looks like. And a poet...writing about me?' His face lit up with a huge grin and out loud he said, "Kewl."
The king walked with Iolaus to an area outside the castle walls. "Good-bye, Iolaus," he said sadly. "Go in peace."
"Thank you," Iolaus said. "I hope I will get back this way one day."
"So do I, Iolaus."
The king returned to his library, sat at his desk and opened the Elis Book of History to pages purposely left blank until the day the legend was completed. He picked up a pen, filled it with ink, and began to write:
'His name is Iolaus. The traveler who was written about long ago, but whose name was unknown until now. He arrived from out of nowhere, at a time when a distant darkness in the form of an evil king was poised to forever change the face of this great country. Small of stature, with eyes the color of the sky and hair the color of the sun, my guards, my friends and I immediately knew he was the one spoken of in the legend so many years ago. The name Iolaus is recorded here, now and for all time. Iolaus, the Hero of Elis. There is no braver warrior or hero to be found anywhere. All Hellenes are now safe. Greece has been saved. So it is written.'
Iolaus was so anxious to see Hercules again that he stopped to sleep only when darkness proved too dangerous for travel. Then he was up as the sun awoke and on his way again, making his way west and south. He did not take time to cook, but picked fruit and nuts wherever he could, and ate them on the walk. After six long days of walking along dusty roads, muddy roads and a thunderstorm that mother nature hurled at him, causing a half day's delay while waiting out the storm in a cave, Iolaus arrived at the last place he had seen Hercules. He was not sure where Hercules would be by now, and his friend was not expecting to see him so soon after he went off on his own, but he would ask around and find out where he went.
Suddenly a voice in the village screamed, "It's him! It's Iolaus!"
A large group of people ran up to Iolaus, shook his hand, slapped him on the back and welcomed him like he had never been welcomed anywhere.
"What's going on?" he grinned.
"Oh Iolaus, you're too modest," a familiar voice said.
"Hercules! How are ya, Buddy?" Iolaus' face lit up like the aurora borealis, he was so excited to see his best friend.
"Well, I'm just fine, and as you can see, your reputation has preceeded you." Hercules reached out and shook his friend's hand, while hugging him with his other hand. "It sure is great to see you, Buddy."
"You mean you heard...already?
"Good news travels fast, Iolaus."
"Well, I guess so."
"It's beautiful," a female voice said.
"It's dangerous," a young boy said. "I want to be just like Iolaus when I grow up."
Iolaus realized everyone was looking at the sword. "Hercules, can we go somewhere?"
"Sure, Iolaus, come on." They entered a tavern where the proprieter let it be known that food and drink for the pair was on the house. Iolaus and Hercules sat in a corner away from the noisier customers and caught up on events of the past three weeks.
"So," Hercules finally said, "You are a famous hero."
"Well, I..."
"Don't deny it, my friend, you are."
"Yeah, well, I finally found the answers to a lot of my questions. It's funny, though, I don't feel like a hero." He brushed the front of his vest with his hands, then added, "Right now I feel like a dusty, muddy mess."
"Well, you are a hero whether you feel like one or not. And, well...you LOOK like a dusty, muddy mess. I'm just glad you came back in one piece."
"Me too, Herc." At that moment Iolaus realized he no longer had any desire to go off on his own again anytime soon. He had fulfilled a preordained destiny, and knew that his destiny from here on out was to be at his best friend's side. Iolaus laid his new sword on the table and showed it to Hercules. He also knew that wherever their next adventure took them, he was truly back where he belonged.
End
Mare
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