The Vacuum Monster

Once upon a time, there was a brave knight in training. (I know this is technically called a squire, but "squire" didn't sound right for the story.) He had not faced many foes yet, so his bravery was still untested. But he believed himself to be brave, and those who knew him best also knew there lay a seed of true courage in his heart.

One day, into this brave young knights quiet existence there burst an orange vacuum monster. At first, the knight was unsure of what to do. He did not know whether it was a friend or enemy, or if it could be used for good, or only for evil. He watched its progress across the floor from a safe distance. Slowly he realized that it was under his father's control, but it was still so loud! He watched and clung to the safest thing he knew. He was not sure if he wanted to be brave after all.

But the vacuum monster was leaving the room! What would it do in other lands? Now that it was further off, it wasn't so loud either. He must find out what would happen. He chased the monster, but as he neared it, slowed and began sneaking up to it. With one hand clinging to his mother, he touched the monster. Vibrations ran through his fingers and he pulled away. The monster also pulled away, as the young knight's father left the room.

Now the brave young knight was sure that the vacuum monster would not hurt him. He followed it though the house, touching it delicately every now and again. When it went upstairs, he tried climbing the stairs mountain, even though he didn't like the feel of the carpet grass under his hands. He had to keep an eye on that monster.

By the time the monster went back into its cave, the brave young knight was no longer afraid of it. In fact, he almost liked it. It was exciting and different and just a tiny bit scary because he never knew when it might come after him.