Sir Baloc

Elaine felt great hope, and yet at the same time doubt came, for she knew the power of the man who held her. Reb will never stand a chance against him. Very few of my father's knights could stand up to Baloc.

He yanked her along and stopped under a tree. “There he is,” he said suddenly “Now watch this, my lady”

Elaine watched Sir Baloc walk over to where his groom had his battle horse ready. He was lifted into the saddle, and he put the crested helmet over his head. Then he took the lance.

“This won't take long.” He gave a loud cry and said, “Now, Sir Reb, you'll see what it means to meet the powers of the Dark Lord's servants!” He touched his spurs to the horse and galloped straight at Reb.

Elaine did not see clearly what happened, but she saw Reb hold up something that caught the glint of the sunlight and heard him cry out some strange words. At the same time Sir Baloc pulled his horse up sharply. Then he uttered a hoarse cry, turned, and galloped away as if all the knights of the kingdom were after him.