Short Stories in English for Beginners

represent
 the king,’ answered Alfred. Then he indicated Lars.
‘This knight kept us safe during the journey. The other two guards are with
us.’
The guard looked at the wagon. Then he asked, ‘Is that the gold?’
‘Yes,’ replied Lars, ‘it’s the gold.’
‘OK,’ said the guard, ‘you may pass.’
Alfred look at Lars in surprise. Lars seems to know the kingdom of
Arthuren very well, Alfred thought.
The guard gave a sign to open the door. Another guard stood by the door
as they entered. They walked into the castle’s market square. There were
lots of people. Many of them were market traders. Others were farmers.
The group walked across the square. Suddenly, Alfred looked puzzled. ‘I
know this place,’ he said.
‘It’s similar to the market square in King Andur’s castle,’ said Lars.
‘Yes, it’s almost 
identical
!’
‘A long time ago, the two kingdoms were joined,’ explained Lars. ‘That’s
why they are so similar. But that was before the great battle. Now they have
no 
social
contact. The people of the two kingdoms don’t like each other at
all.’
The horses and wagon neared the castle doors. The castle itself was also
very similar to King Andur’s. In fact, the structure was exactly the same.
Two guards went to unload the gold. Lars and Alfred went to see King
Arthuren. They entered the king’s rooms.
King Arthuren called out, ‘Welcome to my kingdom!’
‘Good afternoon, 
Your Majesty
,’ replied Lars.

---

‘Lars, it’s really you! I’m so happy to see you.’
‘I’m happy to see you, too, Your Majesty.’
Alfred didn’t understand at all. How did Lars and the king know each
other?
‘Have you brought the gold, Lars?’
‘Yes, it’s yours.’
‘Excellent. We can start our plan.’
Alfred looked surprised. What plan is that? he thought.
Lars took out the strength potions. He had brought them from King
Andur’s kingdom. He gave them to King Arthuren. Arthuren carefully
measured the amounts.
‘What is happening?’ Alfred asked.
Lars and Arthuren looked at each other. Then Lars spoke. ‘I must tell you
something, Alfred,’ he began.
Alfred took a few steps back. He was frightened. How did the king and
Lars know each other? Why did Lars buy those strength potions? King
Arthuren had magic water. He could make them himself!
Lars walked over. ‘Alfred,’ he began again, ‘this kingdom