“A Very Close Shave” - A Tale of Heroes - Scene 45: Antonerri

Antonerri awoke disoriented. Morning light fell across his face, making it hard to see. He blinked and rolled over, then rose up on one arm. He was on a bed. A nice one, actually, padded well with what felt like a feather mattress. With real blankets.

Wait. How did I get here?

As he wiped his eyes with his other hand, the memories of the last few days flowed into his head. The last bed he had slept in was in the barracks of the Church Guard, and it was made of rough straw. That seemed like a completely different world, now.

He sat up, then stood. The wizard girl had gotten them rooms at this inn. For a small town, there was one pretty fancy inn, and she had found it. “We should all get a good night’s sleep!” she had said. All but the Giant. He had wanted to stay with the barge. Antonerri had offered to stay as well, but Granthurg insisted he go. The room itself was small, but nicely furnished. The rug felt good on his bare feet. There was a small table with a wash basin and soap. He rubbed his hand across his face and felt the four days of stubble.

He crossed the room again and reached for his pouch. He pulled out a dagger and unsheathed it as he walked back to the table. It was finely crafted and had a good edge. He had picked it up after the fight on the barge. It must have dropped from one of the attackers’ belts. He set it on the table and poured water from a pitcher into the basin. He rinsed off his hands, and got them soapy, spreading the foam over his chin.

His hand shook a little as he raised the dagger to his neck. Memories of the accusations of the Confessor Priest flashed through his mind. I am unworthy. I am rejected. I have nothing, and nowhere to go. It would be simple. It would be quick. The wondering would be over.

He stood, transfixed, feeling the cold edge of the blade on his dripping throat. He took a deep breath and shifted the dagger in his fingers. He drew down, scraping away the soap and the beard.

No. Not yet. I have to help find the children, and free them. Maybe then I can find some peace, one way or another.

When he finished shaving, he dressed. He hesitated to put on his tunic, looking at the emblem of the three star lights over the left breast. Finally, having nothing else to wear, he put it on. Then, he stepped out into the hallway, looking for DeFrantis.

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This continues the story of the heroes in Wynne, in Twynne Rivers, in the world of The Hero's Tale, Family Friendly RPGs. Here's more info on The Hero's Tale, and family friendly RPGing.


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