The Incredible Journey of Pete McGee by Adam Wallace

feet, his clothes covered in dust, and all he could think about was that he was on his own. He was trying to succeed where so many had tried and failed before him. He didn’t want these thoughts but he couldn’t stop them. It began to hit home just what an enormous task lay ahead. In all the excitement, Pete had never really thought about what he was doing, never really thought that he wouldn’t succeed. But how could he? He was a boy, as everyone kept calling him, so how could he possibly do this? He had no powers, no weapons, nothing. He had to face up to the fact that his mother would die and the evil King Cyril would get the flower. That was all there was to it. Even if the King was to fail, that would just add to the chance of Pete’s failure.
    He turned around and faced back the way he had come. His pack still lay by the side of the road. He walked over to it and swung it over his shoulder. He felt useless. He couldn’t go on, but he couldn’t go home either. This was a decision he didn’t want to have to make alone. Suddenly, he realised he may not have to, for he felt a familiar presence by his side. He turned his head and saw Sir Loinsteak. As proud as when Pete had first seen him, somehow the knight seemed different. It was a general feel about him, a look; something wasn’t right. Pete couldn’t put his finger on it, and didn’t really want to try. Sir Loinsteak smiled at his young friend.
    â€˜Sir Pete. Dost thou not face the wrong direction?’
    â€˜I thought you were only meant to show up when I’d shown strength and truth and valour. Well, I’m giving up, quitting, going home, so what the hell are you doing here? It’s not really your time to appear, is it?’
    Pete McGee spat the words out, his disappointment in himself fuelling his anger. Sir Loinsteak’s face showed no emotion, although he paused a little before answering.
    â€˜Thou art correct. However, thou didst show courage in even approaching the King. His words, and those of his advisor, are foul and evil, and do turn thy thoughts against thyself. ‘Tis truly a time of need for thee, and thus I am here to help.’
    â€˜But how can you help me? Everyone’s right, even Mum thought it: I’m just a boy; I’m a little kid with one arm who thinks he’s a knight, but I’m living in fantasyland. I’m just a dreamer and that’s not gonna help anyone.’
    â€˜No, Pete McGee, thou art wrong. Greatness is born from dreams. Merely by leaving the comfort of thy house and embarking on this quest thou art converting dreams to reality. By telling the King thy reasons for wanting the flower, thou has made thyself vulnerable, a true sign of courage. ‘Tis just that thou needs to see past others’ words into the part of thee that knows thy values are noble, that thou art capable of completing thy quest. True, thou dost not seem to have much to carry with thee in case of battle, but thou hast more than thou believes. Weapons are necessary, to be sure, but they are not always a person’s greatest defence. And I will be by thy side, Pete McGee, when thou needs me. I will face danger with thee, but I also give thee this.’
    Sir Loinsteak handed Pete a dagger. It was an incredible-looking weapon. Pete wrapped his fingers around the grip and, to his astonishment, the handle moulded itself into his palm. It would fit him and him alone. The blade glowed, giving no indication of its age, and looked as sharp as if it were brand new. While Pete was grateful to have something to defend himself with, he also wondered if he could kill another living thing. As if reading his thoughts, Sir Loinsteak placed a huge hand on Pete’s slim shoulder.
    â€˜I truly hope you never have to find out, Sir Pete, but sometimes fate doth place us in situations that we cannot control. Thou must be equipped to deal with them. Until then, guard this weapon well, for it is