Arthur and the Wood Inhabitants
On one fine morning, Arthur the Little Bee, wanted to explore The Old Forest where he and his whole family had lived in. Before leaving, his parents warned him not to fly so far away from their home as Arthur was still inexperience in the area. They forbad him to go outside the forest because human lived there and they were very dangerous. Arthur should be very careful.
So, cheerfully Arthur packed his meal and set off for the trip. Not too far from his home, a group of colorful wild flowers swayed their lovely petals to and fro. They sang happily to greet the morning sun. As Arthur passed by, they sang a welcoming song in chorus and asked him to send their warmest regard to his parents. Further, he met Mrs. Carroty The Rabbit.
“Good morning little Arthur. Where are you going on this fine lovely morning?” greeted Mrs. Carroty.
“Good morning to you too Mrs. Carroty. I just want to explore the forest and see if there’s something interesting,” replied Arthur politely.
“Oh, what a coincidence. I’d be very grateful if you could drop by at Mr. Bulky Bear’s home. He was sick for days and we could not visit him. We were so worried and wished you could inform us his progress,” pleaded Mrs. Carroty
“O, all right I’d love to do the favor. But I do not know where My Bulky lives,” Said Arthur
“That’s easy. He lives across the Willow River. There’s a signpost for direction of his home. To get there, you’ll have to pass by Mr. Pride the Butterfly’s home. If he said something bad, just ignore him. He’s the most conceited being I’ve ever met. And be careful Arthur! The hunting season is about to begin,” advised Ms Pansy.
Hence, Arthur continued his trip. He flew across the dense shrubs and pine trees. Along the way, he came across other inhabitants of the wood. All seemed happy and cheerful on this fine lovely morning. Even, Mrs. Rapidcheep The Mouse had invited him to have some tea with her whole family. Snuffy, the youngest of the family, wanted to accompany him. But Mrs. Rapidcheep told him that he’s still having some homework to finish. Afterward, he proceeded alone after being given some more directions.
Further, Mr. Vigor The Elephant greeted him in most cheerful tone. He was big and fat. But he could run fast. He was in a hurry to get to the river. He wanted to swim and cleaned his muddy body. When Arthur told him his goal, he gladly offered him a lift.
“Come on, boy. Hop to my back, and we shall go together.” Said Mr. Vigor.
Accordingly, Arthur hoped at his back. After all, his wings got a little bit sore after such a long trip. He was thankful for this. All along the way, Mr. Vigor hummed and tried to sing a song. But his tone was so miserable. It’s like a thunder during a fine day. A group of elks in the green pasture got startled and run in rumble. They mumbled and burbled when they knew the thundering sound coming from Mr. Vigor. In return, Mr. Vigor made his song louder and louder while laughing. Mr. Raccoon almost slipped from the branch of an elk tree. He shot an angry look at Mr. Vigor. It was really a chaos. Yet, no one seemed got really angry with this. They seemed had known this annoying habit of Mr. Vigor. Even, some got some real amusement for this hilarious scene.
After some while, they got into the riverbank. Some dense weeping willows stood proud and tall. It was time for Arthur to say goodbye.
“Thank you so much for the lift Mr. Vigor.” Said Arthur thankfully.
“Don’t mention it Kiddo. The pleasure is mine. Send my best regard to Mr. Bulky. Tell him I’m waiting for him in a race competition soon.” Replied Mr. Vigor cheerfully.
Afterwards, Mr. Vigor threw himself into the riverbank. He kept singing while bathing. While Arthur continued his trip alone. He could easily reach his destination without much effort. All knew Mr. Bulky very well. He was renowned for his modesty and generosity. He helped others a lot. Thus, every animal he met could easily show him the way.
An Encounter with Mr. Pride
After sometime, he arrived at the signpost described by Mrs. Carroty. It pointed to the small tree house across the river. “It must be Mr. Bulky’s home”, thought Arthur happily. He knocked at the door several times but there’s no answer. As he was about to give up, a butterfly with beautiful colors greeted him with unfriendly tone.
“Now, I know why there’s bad odor in the air,” groaned the butterfly
“Hello Sir, you must be Mr. Pride. Do you have any idea where Mr. Bulky is?” asked Arthur cautiously.
“Oh, that big fat lazy bear! How do I know? I’m not his nurse. And I don’t care where he is,” snapped Mr. Pride.
“I’ve heard he’s sick. I come to see if he’s all right, ” Replied Arthur.
“Listen kid, why meddle up with his business when you have some issues to deal with. Look at you! So shabby and smelly like garbage. Your odor has disturbed me from my sleep,” blurted Mr. Pride madly.
“I’m so sorry sir,” said Arthur.
“Look at me Kid! Always clean and shine. All the inhabitants of this wood admire my pretty color,” boasted Mr. Pride. He buzzed around Arthur for a show off.
“Yes, Sir. You indeed have pretty color that outshines mine, ”said Arthur humbly while thinking a way to escape.
“Just take my advice kid. There’s no way you can find that stupid bear inside. He’s been going since dawn. To where he’s going, that’s not my matter to concern! Go back to your home and clean yourself!” exclaimed Mr. Pride.
Mr. Bulky and the Hunters
Suddenly, a thunderous roaring heard from the dense forest a far. It made Arthur and Mr. Pride startled. Mr. Pride was shivering and so pale. He was frightened and hid behind Arthur.
“What in the hell was that?” Cried Mr. Pride desperately.
Then, some gun fires were heard continuously. The roaring followed by rustling leaves that was approaching the tree house.
“It must be the hunters. We have to save Mr. Bulky. I think he cried for help.” Said Arthur.
“Not I, kid. I am out of here. You better save yourself too.” Replied Mr. Pride frantically. He rapidly flew away and disappeared in the dense pine trees. Arthur was now left alone. His mind worked hard to find the way out while his blood rushed so fast to his heart. The clamoring sound and the gun fire got closer and closer.
Suddenly, Arthur got an idea. He flew up above the trees. He produced chemical odors to call other bees that dwelled near the place. He worked so hard. He prayed his plan would work. Minutes passed by but help seemed out of reach. From where he was, he could see a big giant bear run desperately while three hunters followed him closely. Sometimes, they opened fire to stop the bear.
Arthur decided he should help the bear alone. He stormed in the direction of the three hunters. He stung the first hunter in her cheek. He screamed and stumbled. But soon, he regained his consciousness and started to fire randomly at Arthur. The second hunter who was still chasing Mr. Bulky shouted aloud to him.
“Hey, watch out your fire. Don’t waste it on that little honeybee, idiot. Just crush it with your bare hands.”
Then, the third hunter swat his hands into Arthur’s direction. Arthur flew away to escape. The rushing wind produced made Arthur staggered. He tried hard to balance his wings. Another blow was about to come again. This time, the blow hit his right wing. Arthur got off balance and fell.
“You little intruder. You have to pay for this.” Shouted the third hunter angrily.
“I will crush your little wings and throw you into the river.” He shouted.
Meanwhile, the two hunters still chased Mr. Bulky. They kept firing and shouting. Mr. Bulky run out of breath. He already thought that he would die soon. He and Arthur had fallen into a deathful situation. They cried for help but no one seemed hear their cries.
Artemis, The Bee Warrior
Out of the blue, a formation of bumblebees came just in time. They dispersed into two direction. The first troops attacked the third hunter who was about to crush Arthur with his feet. While, the other flew in speed at the two hunters. Some stung them on the forehead, some buzzed on their face so they could not see. The three hunters who did not suspect the attack ran in chaos. They felt pain all over their bodies. They cried loudly and rolled in the ground. But their attackers kept stinging them until they were driven out of the forest.
“Well done kid. You are a courageous little honeybee.” Said the leader of the bumblebees.
“Thank you sir.” Replied Arthur weakly. He felt pain in his right wing. He tried to get up.
“Don’t be in a hurry Kid. My men will give you some care for your wound.” Said the leader. Then two bumblebees tended Arthur. They gave some herbs into his right wing.
“This shall ease you from ache and fever.” Said one of them.
Miraculously, Arthur felt his pain no more. He could now move his right wing.
“Thank you, it’s amazing. My pain is gone.” Cried Arthur. Before he spoke any further, a soft groan was heard.
“Ah, my dear friend Bulky, are you all right?” asked the leader.
“Thank you, Artemis. You have saved my life. I am far too old now to face those cowardice hunters. They got me at my left ankle. But I am still alive because of you and your men.” Said Mr. Bulky. He grinned in pain and blood was trickling from his left ankle.
Arthur was surprised to hear Mr. Bulky called the brave leader, Artemis. His father told me once the story of the great warrior among the Bumblebee clan. It was said that Artemis long time ago had saved to whole old forest from human aggression. He led thousands of bumblebees and honeybees into the war. He succeeded driving humans away from the forest.
“Don’t thank me yet, Mr. Bulky. It is this little honey who saved you. If it was not because his signal, I would not notice the present danger.” Said Artemis.
“Aye, I almost forget you my little friend. It’s you who distracted my third pursuer. What’s your name kid?” asked Mr.Bulky.
“My name is Arthur, Sir. Mrs. Carroty sent me to visit you.” Replied Arthur.
“Oh, it was nice of you Arthur. I’ve been sick for a couple of days. This morning, I felt better. I tried to take a stroll. Then, I met those hunters.” Said Mr. Bulky.
“Artemis, it seems we have to call for a council meeting. I believe those hunters will attack again. Only God knows how many will come to hunt us down.” Mr. Bulky said more.
“Calm down, my friend. First, let us tend your wound. Second, we get out this place soon into a safer one. I’ve already sent my men for a patrol. Any movement will be reported. As for you Arthur, I’d like to ask you one more favor.” Asked Artemis.
“Yes, Sir. I’ll do whatever to help.” Said Arthur proudly.
Suddenly, from the dense pine leaves, Mr. Pride fluttered his colorful wings.
“Wait up guys. What about me? Surely, you have one daring task for me, Artemis?” pleaded Mr. Pride.
“What? You better hide again, Mr. Pride. It’s a lot safer for you. You don’t want your lovely color got tainted, do you?” Said Mr. Bulky scornfully.
“Hey, I wasn’t hiding, you lazy fat bear. I’m trying to help you. Somebody had to be a watch out in case something bad happened.” Replied Mr. Pride angrily.
“Yeah, helping me…while I got shot and bled. It’s the Young Arthur who saved my life. He’s far too small but has the courage of a bull.” Groaned Mr. Bulky
“Stop, fighting!” cried Artemis.
“Mr. Pride you could help my men to spread the news. Remember, try not to add some stories…just tell them that a danger has come, and all must get ready!” warned Artemis cautiously.
It was clear that if Mr. Pride told lies, he would pay the consequences. With the look of Artemis when he said the words, Mr. Pride knew he only should tell what was needed.
It was decided that Arthur and Mr. Pride would help Artemis’ men to spread words to the Old Forest’s inhabitants for a council meeting. They all should meet at the Hellion Cave. Meanwhile, Artemis would personally informed Leones, The High King of the Old Forest, about the present danger. Mr. Bulky, and the rest of Artemis’ men proceeded into the cave for preparation.
Escape to Hellion Cave
Soon, the whole Forest was busy and noisy. News had been spread that their forest was in the verge of invasion. The hunters had attacked Mr. Bulky. Artemis, the great warrior, had returned once more to help. The courageous Arthur had sent the words with the help of his friends, Snuffy, Mrs. Carroty, Mr. Vigor, and many others. Arthur’s parents were so proud of him. But, when Arthur asked his father to come along into the Council Meeting, he father declined the request.
“My dear son, I was so proud of you. But you must not come. It is for a grown up. You must stay here with your Mom. It is safer so that I would not worry about you.” Said Father Bee.
“But Dad, I can take care of myself. I promise I would behave. I want to meet Artemis again.” Pleaded Arthur sadly.
“Son, you have proved your courage today. Now, you must rest. That’s an order.” Said Father Bee.
Although, Arthur tried so hard to persuade his father, it’s only a vain. Arthur was so sad. He wanted to take part in the meeting, or least was present in there. He wanted to fight with the others. He did not want to just sit and watch. Not to mention that all warriors from the Old Forest would likely to attend. The idea of seeing the legendary King Leones again also triggered his strong will to go with his father. He had to be there no matter what. He had to find the way.
When the night had fallen, Arthur hurriedly went to his bed. His mother came to check. When she was convinced that Arthur had fallen asleep, she slept at the other room. Arthur tiptoed into the door. He sneaked out voicelessly afraid he might awaken his mother. He knew where Hellion Cave was. His father had taken him there several times. It’s the place when the Council Meeting was held in time of urgent matters. It’s the place where Kings of The Old Forest were crowned. It is the place where great trials were carried out.
Luckily, the moon shone brightly. It guided his way. The Forest was so quite as if it was empty. The night insects were not heard. The owls were nowhere to be seen. Cautiously, Arthur made his way forward. In a far, he could see a flicker in the dark. It must have been the Hellion Cave. If there was a meeting, a torch would be lit at the opening door to the cave. He’s getting closer and closer.
Then, he saw the torch at the mouth of the cave. Two Jaguars guarded the door. Arthur had to think fast to get pass the guards. An idea popped up in his mind. Carefully, he inspected the sidewall of the cave in case he found any crack to get in. He was right. A small crack that was big enough for him to slip through. He quickly got into the crack. It was dark and damp. He felt his body shivering. The cold wall felt like an ice. The night wind was cold piercing his body. He was lucky it did not take long to reach inside the cave. He flew into the light seen deep inside. The passage was long and winding. He could hear noises and clamoring from a far. He knew he was getting near to the council hall. A circle of crowds was seen finally. Then, carefully he found a hiding place near the council hall, a small hole in the solid stalactite above the hall. Through the hole, he could see below clearly.
King Leones
Standing in great stone chair was a Great Lion. Arthur quickly knew that the Great Lion was King Leones himself. It was the first time he saw the King. His golden mane flickered under the light. His face was fierce but wise altogether. His eyes were of fire. His paws were strong and sharp. His stance, gestures, physical movement, as well as his voice, worked together to support his message. When he was passionate, it was heard in his vocal inflection, seen in his strong posture, assertive gestures and animated facial expression.
Arthur remembered well when he was first met the King. It was his customary to take a stroll in the forest by himself. He would gladly converse and greet his fellow citizens. Sometimes, he would just wander around in the high valley at the southern forest and close beside the Grand Waterfall. It was his first encounter with the outer world except his home on one sunny day. He was too excited to see the world outside. He got careless and got entangle in a spider web. He had hard times to escape from the net until he was free and fell. As he thought he would die, he landed on a soft fur that felt like a soft sweet furry bed. Then he heard a soft deep voice.
“Are you Ok, young honeybee?” said the voice.
When he looked around, Arthur realized that he had landed at the back of a great golden lion. He was scared and did not know what to do.
“Ah, don’t be afraid, young honeybee. I will not eat you. You are too small anyway.” Said the Lion smiling. “Let me take you to your home. It looks like your wings need some careful attention. You must be very careful next when playing.”
“I’m scared, Sir. I’m just a little bit alarmed.” Said Arthur hastily. He did not want The Lion knew he was lying. “And my gratitude for your kindness Sir. My name is Arthur. I live not too far away from here.”
“Ehm, Arthur…what a great name. Someday, you will be courageous and strong. Don’t be discouraged of your size. Size does not always mean power. Remember that Arthur. I know your father very well. He often gives me some honey.” Said the Lion friendly. My name is Leones. You can call me Leo if you want to.”
So, the King took Arthur to his home. His father was very pleased with The High King’s visit. They had long hours of talking and Arthur was there. He still didn’t believe that he had met the great King Leones. That was the story how he met The King.
The Council Meeting
Next to Leones was Artemis with his armor. A fox and two leopards stood near Artemis. In the far end, a group of foxes stood in a row. The rest of the animals had grouped themselves round him in the shape of a half-circle. Some torches were lit on the cave walls. A howl and gibber of uncertainty went up amidst the crowds. There was moment of a racket before a thundering roaring struck the hall. Leones had roared to get their attention. His roar was deep and heavy. It echoed throughout the hall. All were suddenly quite in silence.
King Leones spread his gaze around. He moved forward until he was in the middle of the hall.
“My dear fellow citizens, tonight we gather to discuss a serious matter. A threat had been seen this morning. A group of hunters had trespass our territory. Our Mr. Bulky almost got killed. Luckily, our brave warrior, Artemis, and Little Arthur had come into rescue.” Said Leones. “And this meant danger to us all. So, we are here to find the best solution.” Added Leones the King.
“High King, Leones. It is indeed a present and clear danger. For so long, humans never set foot within our Forest. They only hunt outside our territory. Once, they hunt here; they will keep doing it again and again.” An old Owl said in a worried tone.
Soon, all were talking and gibbering. Arthur now recognized the old Owl as the wise counselor of the Old Forest. He often devised advises in time of crisis. His strategy and direction often worked. His father had often talked about the old Counselor.
“My dear counselor, Cicero, what do you think we should do?” asked the High King to the old Owl.
“High King, we must soon take action. We have to send humans clear message that this Old Forest must remain undisturbed. But, we must devise a thoughtful plan so that humans will not get angry or harmed. Otherwise, there will be killings among the two races. My advice is to send Artemis for this task. He has succeeded years ago. And he will again this time, your Majesty.” Said Cicero.
“High King, my race is known for their speed and cunningness. If I should be given this task, I will not let you down.” Thundered a voice from the far end.
The voice came from the leader of the foxes. He was big and fierce. His fangs were sharp and his eyes were full of fire.
“Hey, don’t talk nonsense, Foxero. You are too reckless for this great important task. I’m worried if you would only make a blunder and get us all killed. Worse, you will make humans hunt us down.” Said the Leopard scornfully.
Then, the other animals talked noisily. Some agreed with Foxero, others with Leopard, and some with Cicero.
“Silence.” Roared Leones. “We gather here to find the solution and not to fight one another. United we stand, divided we fall. Should I remind you all with this?” Said Leones angrily.
Arthur could see Foxero and Leopard casted their eyes to the ground. The other animals stayed silence, unmoved. Meanwhile, Artemis was thoughtful and made some discussion with Cicero.
Among the crowds, Arthur could see his father in the honey bee group at the southern end. They also had their mind racing around. The meeting had been going on longer from he had expected. His body got ached as he had to stay still in the tiny small hole. There’s also a tickling air that made him want to sneeze. Suddenly, he could not hold his breath any longer. A loud sneeze came out from his mouth. Off balance, he fell from his hiding place. Midair, he regained his balance and flew up only to see that all had turned their heads to his direction. All eyes gazed at him.
Out of the circle, his father rushed towards him.
“Arthur, haven’t I told you to stay at home? What are doing sneaking in this meeting?” shouted his father.
“I’m so sorry Dad. I could not resist my curiosity.” Whispered Arthur regretfully. As his father about to send him away, King Leones addressed Arthur in most friendly manner.
“Ah, it’s young Arthur apparently. Please come forward, son!” Said the King.
Hesitatingly, Arthur stepped forward. He did not dare to cast his eyes around. Yet, when he got in front of the King, he gazed directly through his eyes. Amazingly, those eyes were soft but strong as if they have been a long lost friend. He also admired his golden mane that flicker under the light.
“Aren’t you afraid of me Young Arthur?” asked the King in a soft tone.
“No, Sir. I mean your Majesty.” Answered Arthur boldly.
Suddenly, the King laughed aloud. “You are indeed the bravest honeybee I’ve ever met.” I think Artemis would be gladly to have you as his assistance for this task. But first let me ask permission from your father.”
to be continued ...
Written on November 2008
