"How can I now return home?" he asked Asgarth, who had been beside him for eight campaigns and never once issued unwanted advice.
King Richard continued:
"I do not believe that I have God's strength in this. My brother has changed I tell you. I myself did not recognise him last time we met. He used to be a practical man, a coffer counter, with no temperament for the exotic or surreal.
“It was I, Richard, who has always been the risk-taker - I travelled whilst John did stay at home - leaving him to a handful of farms and a quarterance of hungry soldiers.
“And still, Britain would fare better without him, I know this also. And yet he threatens me thusly - for my part to remain away and not sully his concern? I swear that those black creatures have entered his head - he was most unwell, last time we met."
"Then you must go ensconced with some elaboration. Tonight we can take the place of Lord Milfoil and his party, who I know will oblige us for a crown."
"So it be said, be it done. Pity the King who is dislocate from his sovereign home."
Two days later Richard and Asquith were once again on British soil. A solitary figure stood on the beach to greet them. He had waist long hair and a tall broad form. With hand on heart he said very quietly,
"Welcome my King, I have come to escort you."
-Gabriel Brunsdon, Puck in Hell, Azlander Series
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