171 - “Friends” - Thissraelle - A Tale of Heroes

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"Karendle?"

The room was dark and a bit chilly, in spite of a few glowing embers remaining behind their hearth. Thissraelle was wrapped up tight in her blanket, starting at the ceiling.

"Karendle!" she whispered, "Are you awake?"

After a moment's silence, Karendle responded, "Mmm, hmmm."

"Sorry. Nevermind." Ah, stones! I shouldn't have said anything.

"Well, now I'm up." Karendle rustled her blankets. "What did you want?"

Thissraelle hesitated, "I just had a question, I guess. But I didn't want to wake you. I can ask tomorrow."

Karendle let out an exasperated sigh. "No, it's fine. Go ahead."

Thissraelle rolled onto her side, toward Karendle, and raised up on her elbow. She waved her fingers at the ceiling and spot of bright light appeared, illuminating the inn room. Karendle winced and pulled her hands up in front of her eyes.

"Sorry!" Thissraelle waved again and the spot dimmed a bit. "So, you used that blue mental oculus to contact me when you were trapped in the old Manor house in the woods, right?"

"Yeah. It was DeFrantis' idea. But I did it."

"So, you can contact people other than the guys in the Dragon's Flame."

"Sure. I guess. I don't know how it works, really. You probably do better than me."

Thissraelle lay back down. "I wonder if the Dragon's Flame will know about it if we use it."

"I don't know. I really don't." Karendle sat up. "You want to reach out to DeFrantis, right?"

"I've been thinking about her a lot. She probably heard about the cathedral attack, but she doesn't know anything about what happened to us after."

Karendle twirled her braid on her finger. "And we don't know what happened to them, either. We only know that there were attacks in the city itself. There could have been chapels burning all over."

They looked at each other as that thought sank in. They threw off their blankets and lunged for Karendle's pack resting by the table in the small room. Karendle reached it first and dug for the pouch holding the oculi. She tossed it to Thissraelle.

Thissraelle caught it and handed it back. "You try first!"

"She's a long way away! When I did it before, it was only a few miles from the manor to the monastery. Contacting the Flame guys was in the same city."

Thissraelle waved her hands toward the pouch. "Try it! It's your stone. You know how to make it work." Karendle sighed and shook the large cut sapphire out onto her palm. She closed her eyes and summoned her will. The stone responded with a glow almost immediately.

Thissraelle reached up and supported Karendle's hands, like she had before. "Think of DeFrantis."

"I am!"

"Sorry..."

Thissraelle waited. She could sense their will reaching farther and farther away. She felt... Emptiness. Nothingness. Her mind was dark.

Come on DeFrantis! Where are you?

They kept their hands together, feeling the warmth of the gem. They pushed their will further.

DeFrantis?

What? What's this? DeFrantis' voice sounded faint in their minds.

DeFrantis! Thissraelle’s heart leapt. Karendle and Thissraelle smiled at each other.

What? Who? DeFrantis paused, then realization seemed to come to her. Thiss? Is that you? Am I dreaming? Am I still asleep?

Yes! It’s me! I’m here with Karendle!

Karendle jumped in as well. Yes! We’re here! Are you well?

DeFrantis shrieked with excitement in their minds, and, probably, out loud. Yes, love, it’s Thissraelle. She’s in my mind! There was a pause. She was apparently speaking to someone. Yes, it’s Thiss and Karendle. They’ve reached out to me! They’re alive!

Thissraelle’s eyes widened. Wait. Who are you talking to?

What, just now? DeFrantis thought, That’s just Antonerri.

Antonerri? But you... Didn’t we just wake you? 

Oh, Thiss, it’s been so long! Antonerri and I were wed about a month after you left, after we heard about the horrors in the chapels. We heard nothing for so long. We worried that you had died. But, you’re not dead! Am I really not dreaming this? I’ve had some strange dreams. 

Oh, it’s real! But you’re MARRIED?

DeFrantis laughed. Yes! Married! So you found Karendle?

Karendle interrupted, Yes, she did! 

She and I and Eddiwarth were all deep in the cathedral fight, Thissraelle explained, trying to rescue the poor monks being hurt and killed by the drakes, but we were snatched out when the danger suddenly got too deep. 

Karendle, are you well?

Yes, Karendle thought, and I’m glad to be back as friends. I’m sorry I was so difficult...

DeFrantis was quick to interject, Don’t worry. It’s all fine, now. Eddiwarth is with you?

Well, not at the moment, Karendle thought, but yes, he is travelling with us.

DeFrantis asked, Is he still trying to win Thissraelle over? Thissraelle’s face twisted in a surprised smile. Karendle laughed out loud. DeFrantis went on, I’ll take that as a ‘yes’...

Thissraelle rolled her eyes. Yes, fine, he is. But at least he’s not being as annoying about it as he used to. She felt a tiredness, an emptiness gradually begin to overtake her and she got suddenly very quiet. I have to ask, though, before our time and will run out...

Karendle was still smiling, but her expression shifted to a half frown when Thissraelle continued, When we got back to Twynne Rivers, we found no trace of Granthurg. I tried to reach out to him, but I wasn’t able to find him. Is he...?

Antonerri and I received a short letter from him. It would have to have been written between the time of the attack and our wedding, but it took a long time to get to us. He’s alive, but fearful. He wouldn’t say where he’s going, but did say that he planned to return to Twynne Rivers someday soon. 

He’s alive! Thissraelle breathed deep and let relief wash over her as those words sank in. He’s alive.

Yeah, I was so happy to hear from him, but he didn’t know anything about you or Karendle, either, so I have been really worried. DeFrantis paused, like she was taking deep breaths as well.

Karendle nodded. Thissraelle could feel their will growing low.

I’m a bit afraid as well, DeFrantis. There are some frightening things happening in the world, and I think our adventure in the manor house rescuing the children was just like poking a hornet’s nest with a stick.

Karendle interrupted, Except the hornets may be dragons.

Dragons!

Thissraelle continued, I won’t say where we’re going, because dangerous people with dangerous powers may be checking on us, but we’ll keep contacting you. 

Be careful, Thiss. DeFrantis sighed.

I will. Give Antonerri an extra hug from us. As Thissraelle was saying this, the glow of the oculus faded and she dropped her hands. Karendle did, too. Thissraelle wiped her eyes and choked out the words, “Thank you.” Karendle smiled and reached over to embrace Thissraelle. That felt strange, coming from Karendle, and it was short, but it felt good to be with a friend, and good to know that the others were alive. Thissraelle wished she could be where they were to hug them, as well. She also felt the familiar tiredness of her drained will.

“Well,” she said, “I think I can sleep now.”

<<<>>>

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151 - "Is That Me?” - DeFrantis - A Tale of Heroes

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My wedding. The sound of those words in DeFrantis’ head sent waves of excitement and confusion shivering through her whole being. She stared at the image of herself in the mirror. It didn't look real to her. Familiar, but not real. She looked... beautiful.

One of the ladies there with her, a plump and cheerful woman who easily had fifteen more winters of age beyond DeFrantis, set a delicate wreath of reeds and flowers over her dark hair. The woman and her friends had been with DeFrantis all morning, dressing her, turning her, combing and braiding her hair, and preparing her for her wedding. Andrina and little Lilia were there as well, sometimes handing things to the ladies, but mostly chasing each other around the room and playing.

My wedding.

"All right! Now stand up and let's have a look!"

DeFrantis stood and the three women spun her around, tugging and tucking the dress, sashes, and the flowers. DeFrantis had never met them before today. They were matrons of the congregation of the Church of Three Lights in Dirae, and Brother Mathezar had sent them to the monastery in the woods to be her attendants on her most special day.

It felt odd to DeFrantis. She was grateful to them, of course, but she would have preferred to have Thissraelle and Karendle there. As she thought of them, she felt the emptiness of missing them. She would have loved to have them helping her prepare, even if they would have been arguing for most of the time. Frankly, between the two of them, they would have ended up with her looking jumbled and confused, like a WinterFest evergreen that had been decorated by too many people. She pictured each of them in her mind. She was worried about them. She’d heard of chaos and battles in Twynne Rivers, and it had been weeks since the group of them left Dirae on Granthurg’s barge.

"Well, what do you think?"

DeFrantis looked in the mirror, transfixed.

Is that me?

Just last spring, she had looked like a drowned street rat, skulking through the heartless alleys of Twynne Rivers in the rain. Then, in that dark night, trapped in the dungeon of the guard tower, she had met Antonerri. Now here she stood, ready to be his bride.

Is that really me? She looked incredulously at the two ladies, and said, "Thank you so much. I don't know what to say!"

They laughed and embraced her. "Please, miss. We should be thanking you!"

"True!” One of the others said, “Since the slavers left town, our children can play without fear. By the Creator, I can actually go to church again!”

The third woman nodded, then added, “They call you the Deliverers of Dirae”. They hugged her one more time, then clapped, giggled, and fussed some more. It all seemed so strange for DeFrantis. Deliverer of Dirae? Is that me? I have an Earned Name? I had always been just DeFrantis. Just a street kid. 

A knock sounded gently on the door. They all froze with anticipation. Even the little girls stopped running. “Ladies?” The heavy door to the room muffled the brother’s hesitant voice, “Everyone is in place. They’re ready for you.”

An excited shiver rushed through DeFrantis’ back. Her pulse quickened a bit. She smiled at her attendant ladies, and they nodded back. “Lilia? Andrina? Are you ready?” The girls nodded, and the attendants straightened the girls’ small dresses and handed them baskets of flowers. DeFrantis drew in a long breath. “Let’s go, then!”

DeFrantis lifted her dress just above her feet, and they walked carefully out of the chamber, down some stairs and into the abbey courtyard. Colorful cloth streamers draped from trees to awnings and waved in the summer breeze. The mid-morning sun was bright and already quite warm. A cluster of brothers stood round the porch of the monastery’s chapel. She could see the Abbott’s mitred head and robed shoulders as he looked out over the monks. His eyes brightened as he saw DeFrantis and the girls approaching.

Some of the monks noticed, too. “They’re coming!” A whisper ran through the huddle. They parted to allow the girls passage to the porch. As they cleared the way, DeFrantis caught sight of Antonerri standing in front of the steps, watching her approach. He wore a long, white cloak over his shoulders, and a plain but smart tunic underneath, with wide sleeves and a finely-made thin leather belt. He straightened tall and tugged at his tunic. It looked less like an adjustment and more like he didn’t know what to do with his hands. He had neatly trimmed his beard for the occasion, and it framed his delighted smile.

Oh, that smile. He struggled so hard to find it. She found herself smiling as well. She took in a deep breath to calm her own heartbeats.

The little girls reached the porch and separated, one to each side as they had rehearsed the day before, to join the other children of the orphanage. DeFrantis stepped up next to Antonerri and he took her hand. He drew her toward him and kissed her forehead. She looked up into his eyes. Suddenly things fell into place, and it all felt real. Of all her life’s mistakes, struggles, and searches, this finally felt right. She was loved. She was home.

Antonerri turned to face the Father Abbott, and she did so as well. She held his hand tight. The Abbott began speaking, giving advice and reading scriptures about marriage and family, but she didn’t hear a word of it. It was a blur. After a bit, he paused, then read them each their questions and vows. Her eyes danced with his as they promised their lives to each other and the Abbott started praying over them in Latin. Then suddenly, she and Antonerri were kissing, laughing, and holding each other tight. The brothers were clapping and cheering, and the bells clanged a cacophony from the tower above. The moment left DeFrantis a bit dizzy. She buried her face into Antonerri’s neck and shoulders and held on, feeling her heart pounding. Lily, Andrina, and the other children rushed to grab a hold of the couple’s legs.

Finally, they relaxed, kissed again, and followed the Father Abbott into the chapel with all of the brothers for their first service of the mass as husband and wife.

<<<>>>

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118 - “Returning!” - Eddiwarth - A Tale of Heroes

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With a creak and rattle, the carriage rolled to a stop on the cobblestone street along the Dirae waterfront. It shook from side to side, as Granthurg stood and jumped off the rumble in the back. After steadying themselves, two of the monastery’s brothers climbed down off the perch. While one went forward to tie the horses, the other came back to open the door. A cool breeze of the late morning off the river swept through the car.

Inside the carriage, Eddiwarth smiled at Thissraelle, sitting next to him. Antonerri and DeFrantis sat across from them, facing the rear. The carriage had a small interior, so they’d all had to sit pretty close for the long ride through the woods. When hearing of their decision to go, the Father Abbott had greeted them, thanked them, and insisted they take his carriage. Eddiwarth hadn’t minded. He got to sit, pressed close up to Thissraelle. It was nice, but it had been kind of awkward, especially with Antonerri and DeFrantis right there.

Antonerri got out first, then turned back to the door as DeFrantis rose and stooped through. He held her hand as she easily took the steps to the street.

Eddiwarth shifted forward in his seat, then half stood, half stooped to exit the carriage. Now what do I do? I should help her down, too, like Antonerri did. Right? Would she like that? Or would she be mad at me? She could easily get down by herself. I should let her. But then, I would be ignoring her. Oh, this is complicated!

He spun around to face the carriage door just as Thissraelle walked past him toward DeFrantis.

Oh, well... I guess that’s OK, then...

The monastery brother walked around from the back of the carriage bearing a number of bags, bundles, and bedrolls. Granthurg was already halfway down the pier toward his barge. Thissraelle and DeFrantis embraced, tightly, gently swinging from side to side. Thisraelle wore a simple travelling tunic with clean, but plain leggings and boots. DeFrantis was in her normal daily working dress.

“I’m so sorry I can’t go, Thiss.”

Thissraelle broke the embrace. “No! Don’t be sorry. I understand.”

DeFrantis gently held on to Thissraelle’s arms. “I’ve told you how I grew up on the streets. I didn’t have any sisters. Thank you for being my sister.” They embraced again. “Stay safe.”

Eddiwarth stood and waited, not sure what to say or do. He leaned over and picked up a couple of the bags and slung them over his shoulder. One of them slipped off as he bent down to pick up another.

Thissraelle stepped away and wiped her cheeks. “Take good care of Antonerri, and the kids.”

She stepped onto the pier with reluctance. Eddiwarth stumbled after her, carrying several bags and dragging another behind him. Antonerri stepped up to the other bags and called out, “I’ll help with those.” He picked up a few and followed after them.

When they got to the barge, Granthurg had already untied the lines holding the barge to the dock. They stepped on board and dropped the bags in the mostly empty cargo space in the middle. I guess Granthurg hadn’t had time to get any loads to carry. This whole trip was pretty sudden.

He watched Thissraelle step up onto the steering platform at the stern. Granthurg was there, kneeling over something under the floor. Thissraelle sat down next to him, focused on the same thing. “Watch this!” Granthurg said and held his hand out.

Eddiwarth’s focus was on Thissraelle. As had happened so often, he stared at her, following her long white hair flowing easily over her shoulders and her back. Yes, I’m watching! 

The barge suddenly lurched in the water and Eddiwarth almost lost his footing, shaking him out of his trance. It moved backward, floating away from the dock. Thissraelle laughed and clapped for Granthurg, then patted him on the shoulder.

“Hey! Wait for me to get off the boat!” Antonerri shouted, then jumped the short distance to the planks. DeFrantis had walked down the pier and joined Antonerri as they waved and called out their farewells.  Eddiwarth waved back, then went to sit on the platform. He smiled as Thissraelle sat next to him, but saw that her attention was on the dock, on DeFrantis.

Finally, she did look at him and smiled, but it was a kind of sad smile. What does THAT mean?

She spoke. “I’m hungry. Is anyone else hungry?”



End of Part 9

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117 - “That Fool Stupid Dream” - Thissraelle - A Tale of Heroes

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“A dream?” a familiar voice said, from behind Granthurg, “Lot of that happening lately, I guess.” Eddiwarth stepped into the lantern’s glow, followed by Antonerri and DeFrantis.

Thissraelle and Granthurg looked back toward the open library door. DeFrantis stepped in front of the table to answer the question on Thissraelle’s face. “We just came in. We’re not trying to eavesdrop. You’ve been... well... troubled the last few days.”

Antonerri moved behind DeFrantis. “We’re just a bit worried about you. And”--he took a breath-- “Karendle, too.”

Thissraelle nodded and looked away. DeFrantis quietly took the open chair opposite Granthurg. Thissraelle could feel the kindness and the concern of her friends, but right now it also brought an oppressive awkward silence crowding around her in the dim light.

Eddiwarth coughed, making everyone look. “So, uh... what’s this dream?”

Tension broken, breaths taken, Thissraelle explained, “Oh, nothing, really. This knight appeared to me and told me things.”

“A knight?” Antonerri said, with curiosity.

“Yeah! Tell us about it!” Eddiwarth nudged, glad to have the heaviness of the moment broken. He leaned his elbow up on Granthurg’s chair and crossed his ankles.

“Well, it’s nothing, like I said. I was flying through a storm, with lighting flashing all around me. Suddenly this knight in armor appears, and he’s glowing and everything, and he tells me that I should go take a message to someone. Then he gives me some advice and goes away.” She shrugged. “Just some fool stupid dream from my subconscious.”

No one was quite sure how to react. DeFrantis just reached out and put a kind hand on Thissraelle’s shoulder.

“What did he look like?” Antonerri asked, thoughtful.

“What?” Thissraelle shook her head back to the moment.

“What did he look like?” he repeated, then, “How was he dressed?”

“Oh, well, uh, he had silvery armor. It was nice, but it was scratched and dented a lot, like he’d been in battle for years. He wore a tunic over it, a lot like the one you used to wear, and the ones the brothers here have, with the three lights symbol on it. Like I said, it’s just a silly dream.”

Antonerri shook his head. “No, it’s not.”

All of the group shifted their eyes to him. “He appeared to me, too.”

Thissraelle’s heart skipped at this revealation.

“I was helping the brothers tend the sheep in the hills and meadows east of the forest. This was not long after we returned from the summerfest. As I wandered, trying to keep an eye on all of the herd, this knight rode up and greeted me, introducing himself as Ivarr. He was dressed as you described. I assumed he was travelling to Twynne Rivers, so I pointed him to the path, to the main road. He dismissed that, and we talked.”

Eddiwarth pressed, “Talked? About what?”

Antonerri hesitated, and looked at DeFrantis, “He said that certainly the Creator was pleased with what I had done to help free the children. He blessed me to have a happy life.” Antonerri took DeFrantis’ other hand. “Then he bowed in his saddle and rode away.”

He continued, “It left me feeling both wonderful and a bit confused. Later, the brothers celebrated the feast of Saint Ivarr and I wondered.” He looked directly at Thissraelle. “But this happened to me in the middle of the waking day. This was not a dream. It was real.”

Thissraelle looked at each of their faces, feeling the kindness, and knowing what she had to do. She saw them looking to her for a decision. Am I their leader? The strongest leader is better the servant.

She took a deep breath and straightened in her chair. “So, I guess we go after Karendle. She is one of us, and she will need our help.”

<<<>>>

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107 - “Late to Dinner” - Eddiwarth - A Tale of Heroes

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“Dinner’s ready!” Eddiwarth proclaimed, bursting through the door from the kitchen. “Roast venison with potatoes and cabbage!” His thin, mostly elvish frame was covered in a long apron, which was damp, dirty, and scattered with vegetable peelings. He had pulled his hair back to keep it out of his eyes, and out of the food as he’d worked. In his arms, he carried flat baskets full of bread loaves into the large hall and set them on the table. Behind him came several of the brother monks bearing steaming trays and bowls full of meat and vegetables. The final two brothers brought out pitchers of ale.

The other brethren of the order sat, eagerly waiting, on either side of the long table. Next to them were Granthurg on one side, and Antonerri and a very tired DeFrantis on the other. Eddiwarth pulled his chair up next to Granthurg, between him and the monks.

“Venison!” The Giant shouted, taking a deep smell as the tray of seasoned meat was carried past him. “What’s the occasion?” The brothers set the trays and bowls on the table, then turned to retrieve more.

One of them paused on the way. “It’s the feast of St Ivarr! Our Father Abbot will be celebrating a special Mass at midnight, but now, we feast!” He hurried after his companions, to bring out more food.

Granthurg looked quizzically at one of the monks seated next to Antonerri. “Who was St Ivarr?”

The brother smiled broadly. “He’s a Defensor Creator, or a Champion of the Creator, and the patron saint of our order! Once a year we celebrate his great sacrifice by feasting, prayer, and a special service in the chapel!”

DeFrantis looked confused. “A celebration? Nobody mentioned this before!”

“Oh, yeah.” Eddiwarth jumped in, “While we were making dinner, the brothers were all talking about it. I guess he’s kind of an unpopular saint.”

A brother said, “Many, many years ago, he saved the Church of Three Lights from an evil demon who was trying to take it over! He died fighting for the Lights.” Antonerri’s eyebrows rose in interest, before the monk continued, “But in recent years, the church councils and archbishops have kind of disgraced him, swept him aside. But we, here, in the woods... We remember what he did. So, we don’t make a big fuss about it, but we feast!”

Eddiwarth smiled, shrugging. “So, what is he the saint of?”

The Father Abbot and his assistants entered the dining hall, brown robes flowing. In instant, everyone jumped to their feet. As he rose, the brother whispered with a smile, “He’s the patron saint of heretics!”

The monks all stood with their heads bowed and their hands before them in a praying posture with the right hand’s palm cupped over the back of the left. Antonerri did it as well. After a moment, DeFrantis joined them.

The Father Abbot began pronouncing a blessing in a language Eddiwarth didn’t understand. Eddiwarth glanced over at Granthurg, who simply bowed his head. They were guests of the monastery, and were not required to participate in the rituals, but sometimes Eddiwarth wondered. Does Granthurg actually believe in The Creator? Maybe he’s just being respectful. Antonerri obviously does. He goes right along with it all. DeFrantis, I don’t know. 

The priest finished the prayer, and pronounced, “Salvator, Servus, Sui.” As each of the words was spoken, the monks held their right palms forward, first, before their heads, then to the right and slightly lower, and finally, with the final word, to the left and just a bit lower still, mimicking the placement of the three lights in the Church's heraldry. Eddiwarth watched as Antonerri followed the pattern. Yeah, he believes it, that’s for sure. I wonder if--Wait--Where’s Thissraelle?

The ritual complete, all of the monks sat and began sharing the food around the tables. The friends did also, except for Eddiwarth.

“Hey, where are the other two girls?” He pointed to the empty spaces next to Granthurg and DeFrantis, where Thissraelle and Karendle usually sat.

Granthurg shrugged. “Oh, I’m sure the ladies,” he said, raising his brows at the emphasis, “will be along soon. Here! Sit down. Have some potatoes.” He handed a bowl to Eddiwarth.

Yeah. Maybe they’re just running late...

<<<>>>

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104 - “The Welcoming Dawn” - Antonerri - A Tale of Heroes

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The morning sunlight from the small window reached across Antonerri’s chamber and drifted down onto his shoulders. It didn’t take long for it to warm his face and cross the threshold his eyelids held for awakening.  He rolled over, yawned, and stretched before he sat up and raked his fingers back and forth through his hair.

He tossed off his blankets and stood, then sauntered over to the small table with the washbowl. He lifted the pitcher and filled the bowl. As it settled, he could see his reflection in the water. He rubbed his beard. It was coming in quite full. He turned his head from side to side, admiring it. Should I shave?

He wet and soaped a rag from the table and rubbed it all over his cheeks and chin, then picked up the razor next to the bowl, and dipped it in to wet it. As the water settled again, he looked at himself. I don’t know. DeFrantis says she likes it, but it itches, and it’s hot in the summer...

After a moment to consider, he closed the razor and dropped it on the table. He used the rag to wipe his face and clean himself off, then dressed.

He eased down the stairs into the galley, and nodded to the trio of monks who were starting to prepare the mushy grains that would become everyone’s breakfast. Antonerri was not fond of it, but it did help him start the day with a full belly and enough energy to get things done. Around their feet were buckets of fresh milk and baskets of eggs full from the early morning chores. He stepped toward the tables that he knew were at the other end of the room, then stopped.

DeFrantis was there, sitting, with her head leaning into one hand, propped up by her elbow on the table. She was hunched over a potteryware cup with dark brew steaming up into her face. Her hair was strewn into a mess and her eyes stared vacantly into the cup. Her shoulders drooped and her shirt was skewed, like she had not paid attention to how she had put it on.

Oh. She doesn’t look well. This was not how she normally looked at the table. Antonerri was usually there first, able to get the brew started and have her cup waiting for her. I’ll have to handle this delicately.

She didn’t move, didn’t seem to even notice as he approached and stepped behind her. He put his hands gently on her shoulders and leaned forward to kiss the top of her head. She stirred, raising her head and leaning back into him. He smiled, “Good morning, beautiful.”

DeFrantis groaned and sank back down. He kneaded the muscles in her shoulders for a second then turned to the pot to get his own cup of brew. He walked around, sat across from her, and took a tentative sip from his hot cup. “You don’t look like you slept well.”

“I thought you said I was beautiful.”

“Always.”

“I’m not feeling so beautiful today.” She took a longer sip. “You're right. I didn’t sleep well.”

“Another nightmare?”

DeFrantis nodded. “And Marisee also. The poor girl. She asked me to use the shadow. That got her back to sleep. But I remained awake.”

“Can’t you do that magic for yourself?”

DeFrantis sighed, “Yeah, and I have before. It’s very soothing in the moment, but it doesn’t last.” She sipped again, slurping. “In the end, it’s just easier to roll back over and try to sleep.”

Antonerri looked at her sad and exhausted face. His face of hope. The face that had saved him from himself. He smiled, in spite of the situation, and reached across the table to cover her hand in his.

She looked up at him, her eyes dripping. “Antonerri, you were a soldier. How do you do it?”

His brow tightened. “How do I do what?”

“How do you go on, live?” she sniffed. His look was still confused. She went on in a whisper full of shame, “I killed someone! I had a blade in my hand and I used it. I killed! Not just the one. There are others who are dead because of me! How do you ever get over that?”

He set down his cup and took her other hand in his, and looked deep into her pleading eyes. I can’t count how many times I’ve asked myself these same questions. “I wish I could tell you. I could say that I was just following the orders of my officers. I could remind you that you were fighting for the lives of frightened helpless children. I could remind you that the slavers and guards and wizards would have eagerly killed you, and almost did. I could tell you how wonderful it is that you can now be here, alive, with me, and be able to comfort a crying child in the night...”

He leaned in close. “But none of that really answers the question, does it?” She sighed and shook her head.

“I just carry on. I just keep going. The Creator hasn’t ended me yet, despite my best efforts, so there must be some reason. Maybe you’re that reason for me.”

She allowed herself a smile, then leaned into him for a kiss. She slowly stood, picked up her cup, and held out her hand before they walked back to the orphanage.

<<<>>>

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. If you like this story, support us at our Patreon!
Thank you: Chet Cox, Genevieve Springer!

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103 - “The Soothing Darkness” - DeFrantis - A Tale of Heroes

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DeFrantis hurried down the hallway toward the child’s voice, shaking the sleep from her head. The lantern she held wobbled back and forth, making shifting shadows before her. She reached out to steady herself on the wooden wall, and half-wondered why the corridor’s floor wasn’t undulating or stretching. She paused for a moment, squeezed her eyes shut, then looked again, seeing more clearly.

OK. The dream’s done, isn’t it? This is real, right? Marisee is still crying. DeFrantis lurched ahead, her walk getting more stable as she awakened. She must’ve had another nightmare, too. When will this be over?

It didn’t take DeFrantis long to reach the hallway of the orphanage wing. The first two doors were the dormitories. Boys on the left, girls on the right. She hurried to the right. The room was long and high, with about a half dozen small beds all along one side. Each was little more than a billowy blanket stuffed with straw spread on the floor, with pillows and blankets above. Wrapped into each one was a young girl. In one, halfway into the room, Marisee was sitting up, crying out. As soon as she saw DeFrantis’ face in the lanternlight, she stopped sobbing and began simply sniffling, wiping her face with her baggy white sleeve.

DeFrantis rushed to her bedside and reached over to hug and soothe Marisee. The girl was small, and frail, probably no older than 7 winters. Her nightdress was someone else’s larger shirt. “Did you have a nightmare?” DeFrantis felt the girl’s head nod against her shoulder, and felt her labored breathing. “It’s OK. I did, too.”

“It was h--horrible! It was a h--huge dragon, like that m--man said! It was going to eat--eat me up in one bite!” her voice trailed off into crying again.

DeFrantis held her close and stroked her hair. “It’s OK. You’re safe now. You’re safe.” Memories passed through her thoughts. Back in Twynne Rivers, there were many nights of frightening dreams. Childhood is full of them. She used to calm the children, and promise that she would always protect them. I can’t say that any more. I can’t always keep that promise. Tears swelled up in her own eyes. I can only promise to fight for you. For the moment, all she could say was a sweet shushing sound as she hugged and rocked the girl back and forth.

In between sobs, Marisee begged, “Can you make it dark?” This simple plea took DeFrantis back to those long nights of fear and sleeplessness in the city. They were usually when the storms would rage around whatever flimsy shelter they had found. Once they had settled into the old chapel, those nights had become less frequent. Maybe it was because it was strong and stable, or maybe because it was a chapel, but it was much easier for the children to sleep there. Still, there was one thing DeFrantis could do when the fright would not go away.

DeFrantis raised her head, closed her eyes, and focused her will. Slowly, the shadows along the wall, under the beds, and down the hall began to swirl and flow toward her. They gathered around the bed, coalescing on the child in her arms. She was quickly engulfed in shadow and darkness, a darkness DeFrantis knew well. She felt the shadow begin to absorb all of the fear, tension, and uncertainty from her, draining them all away. Marisee also relaxed in her arms and stopped crying as the cooling dark swept away her fears.

Within moments, DeFrantis felt the child’s breathing slow to an easy rate, and she knew Marisee was sleeping again. DeFrantis released the shadow, letting it subside, and the room was dim once more, dark, but lit from the lantern at the bedside.

She eased the girl back into the bed, drew up the blankets, and gently stroked her hair from her eyes. Smiling, DeFrantis stood, and picked up the lantern. She walked through the room once, quickly checked on the others, who slept soundly. Then, she returned to the hallway, lingering for only one last checkover at the doorway.

<<<>>>

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. If you like this story, support us at our Patreon!
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102 - “No Forgiveness” - DeFrantis- A Tale of Heroes

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DeFrantis felt sick.

Her head throbbed, and her arms ached. With an unsteady stumble, she made her way down the corridor. It was dark and empty, and not the kind of welcoming darkness that she always found underneath her blankets as she slept, but a cold and haunting darkness that made it hard to see more than a few steps in front of her.

She leaned against the wall, steadying herself. There was a light. She tried to focus her eyes before her to see what it was. It came into clarity gradually. It was a door, with bright lights shining out from underneath, and through the cracks in the doorway. There. I’ll go there! It’s not far. Then I’ll lie down and rest.

DeFrantis looked at the floor before the door. She leaned forward, and took a step, still touching the wall for support. She stepped again. As she walked, she saw that the door didn’t seem to be getting any closer. Confused, she walked faster, trying to maintain her balance.

She stopped. What’s wrong with the floor? It was fluid and flexible, not firm like it had been moments before. It rippled and stretched below her. She felt the hair on her arms and neck get tense as cold blew down the corridor. What’s happening? What’s going on?

DeFrantis broke into a run, trying to reach the door. She only took a few steps before she fell. Her knees and hands took the brunt of the impact, and it hurt. She tried to stand, but her hands were slippery. Her head drooped, as she gasped for breath. Wait, what’s this in my hands?

She looked. Her hands were coated in blood, and one of them held a small, thin, silver dagger. Blood soaked the floor before her, and it was spattered all over her sleeping gown. She screamed and dropped the dagger.

But it didn’t drop. She still held it in her shaking hands, unable to open her fingers.

She heard a distant cry. A child’s voice. A little girl.  Where is she? Where is that cry coming from? She scrambled to her feet and lunged for the door, flinging it open. The blinding light hurt her head, and she shielded her eyes. A man stood silhouetted in the doorway, towering over her. She screamed again and stumbled back. He raised his hand and pointed at her.

“You.”

“No!” Her eyes adjusted and she saw the chest of his shirt was drenched in red. She looked in his eyes and recognized him.  She screamed again, “NO!”

“It was you!” He leaned forward, but rather than stepping, he fell. DeFrantis jumped back, slipped and landed on the floor as he crumbled, chest down, before her.

DeFrantis heard the child cry again. “I’m coming! I’ll save you!”

Another figure stepped up behind the man. She was not as tall, and not as broad, but somehow, just as forbidding. She was wearing the dress of an older peasant woman, ragged and stained. “You killed him!”

DeFrantis shook her head, but she couldn’t speak. She looked at her bloody hands, and the bloody dagger. She opened her mouth to explain, but said nothing. She couldn’t deny it.

“You killed MY SON!”

“I... I didn’t want to!” DeFrantis stammered, “He was... The children were...”

“What do YOU know of children!” The woman shouted. She grew taller, stretching unnaturally, her hands reaching out toward DeFrantis. “YOU KILLED MY CHILD!”  Her arms and body twisted and snaked toward DeFrantis like thick leather whips, snapping tight. Her hands grabbed DeFrantis’ face and pulled her forward, drawing her nearer. The woman’s distorted face screamed again, “YOU KILLED MY CHILD!” Her fanged mouth opened wide to bite into DeFrantis and tear her apart.

DeFrantis’ body shook with jolts of fear and pain. She twisted, trying to free herself from the grip of madwoman’s hands. She tossed her shoulders, and turned her hips, finally shaking her blanket free. She opened her eyes, gasping for breath, cool summer air from the dark, but open window flowing lightly across her sweaty shoulders and nightgown. Gentle moonlight also streamed in through the window, falling across her legs, and reflecting dimly onto the familiar walls and ceiling of her small chamber. She frantically grabbed the folds of her nightgown and held them up to her gaze. The cloth was white. Her hands were clean. There was no dagger. No screaming mother.

She wiped her hand across her forehead, then over her head, pulling her hair away from her face. Her breathing slowed, eased, and she rested her limbs into her thin and bumpy mattress. She passed her hand over it, then gripped it, tentatively, feeling its reality.

She looked to her left, along the chamber’s wall, and saw other mattresses and blankets, and the peacefully sleeping forms of Karendle and Thissraelle. She could hear Karendle snorting soflty.

From down the hallway, DeFrantis noticed a child was crying.

<<<>>>

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. If you like this story, support us at our Patreon!
Thank you: Chet Cox, Genevieve Springer!

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“The Story So Far” - A Tale of Heroes

Welcome to "A Tale of Heroes"! In this entry, you can catch up on the story so far, before you dive into story arc 3. This will introduce you to the characters and help you understand the story, before we start introducing even more characters! Also, here's how you can read the story a week (two scenes) ahead of everyone else!

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Story 1 - Getting It All Together

DeFrantis, a rogue with shadow magical powers, lives on the streets of Twynne Rivers with some other homeless kids. One rainy night she tries to steal some chickens for everyone, but is arrested by the city guard. While in the guard tower, she meets Antonerri, who has been charged with heresy. Together they escape, but are chased by Karendle, who has been hired to hunt and capture wizards.  Meanwhile, Thissraelle, the daughter of the Master of the city’s wizard’s guild, has run away, and met Granthurg, a giant and river runner, driving commerce barges up and down the Wynne Rivers.

DeFrantis finds that the children she had been protecting have been sold off into slavery while she was gone. She and Antonerri book passage on Granthurg’s barge to go upriver to look for them, meeting Thissraelle. Some ruffians attack the boat to get an item that Granthurg doesn’t know about, at the same time that some wizards attack, trying to capture Thissraelle and bring her home. They all fight to defend themselves, and Karendle joins in, capturing one of the wizards. They float the barge west, upriver, to escape.

Story 2 - The Kids Aren’t Alright

The group docks in Dirae, west of the big city. Karendle decides to take her captured wizard back to Twynne Rivers for payment. She’s told to stay and capture Thissraelle as well.  The pouch with her magical gems (called “oculi”) is stolen, and she pursues the thief.

The rest of the group decides to help DeFrantis find her kids. They split up and begin looking for the slavers’ dark market. DeFrantis and Antonerri get into the market in the guise of slave sellers, Granthurg and Thissraelle creep up outside. Karendle is there, also, having followed the thief. She attacks the thief, throwing a fireball at him, and the market erupts in chaos. Karendle is wounded, and DeFrantis heals her. Antonerri is separated from DeFrantis, and, in trying to find her, saves a few slave children with some help from Granthurg and Thissraelle. DeFrantis and Karendle are captured by the slavers and taken away.

The kids that Antonerri rescued are not the ones DeFrantis was looking for, but now they have to rescue her and Karendle as well. The two captured ladies use the oculus to contact Thissraelle, and she, Grathurg, and Antonerri set off into the Umbrawood forest to find them. While held by the slavers in the abandoned manor house, DeFrantis and Karendle release the wizard captured in the oculus, who helps them break free. The find the children they were looking for and begin to fight for their freedom. Thissraelle opens a portal into the manor, and Granthurg and Antonerri step in and begin fighting as well. Thissraelle joins them, healing the wounded. Antonerri finds the power of his light and they defeat the slavers.

They return with the children, and at the summerfest, DeFrantis and Antonerri finally declare their love for each other. But life is starting to get difficult for wizards and those that use magic...

<<<>>>

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. If you like this story, support us at our Patreon!
Thank you: Chet Cox, Genevieve Springer!

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92 - Winds of Change - Karendle - A Tale of Heroes

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<<<>>>

The Inn was noisy, crowded, and a little dim, in spite of the candles on the walls and the tables. Night had fallen on the last day of the SummerFaire, and so before going back to the monastery in the woods, the team sat down for a grand meal. The air was filled with the smattering of conversations mixed with the smell of stews, breads, and roasts. Many others who were there for the faire had also gathered to eat or to stay a night before leaving town to return home.

Karendle sat with her companions around a long, oval table. She picked up her ale and took a swig, while listening to the conversations.

“Where’s the food?” Granthurg complained, “I’m hungry”

“You’re always hungry,” Thisraelle chirped.

I can’t quite figure them out. They seem almost inseparable, but yet they don’t quite fit together. I don’t think Thissraelle likes me much. I’m not sure why. It’s nice that she’s trying to teach me magic, but she’s not very patient with me. Maybe that’s the problem.

“At least we have plenty of ale!” Eddiwarth drew deep on his tankard.

I do wish he would leave me alone. I think I would learn a lot faster without him interfering. He’s just fixated on Thissraelle. Maybe Granthurg will finally get fed up and take him out behind the stables someday. He could sure use a good thrashing.

Antonerri just laughed. He sat near DeFrantis, with his arm across her chair, around her shoulders. She was leaned in close to him.

Karendle took another drink. The inkeeper’s wife stepped up to the table, and said, “Here we are! Thanks for waiting!” She started putting bowls on the table. “Stew! Bread! And lots of seasoned apples!” Everyone leaned in and picked up bowls and plates, passing them around the table.

“Oh, this is great!”

“Careful, it’s hot”

“Here’s the bread”

Karendle took in the scene as the aromas drifted up from her bowl. She glanced up at DeFrantis. I owe her my life. I owe her everything. I still don’t understand why she helps me. Maybe she just helps everyone.

DeFrantis held up her hands and spoke, “Hello, before everyone starts eating--”

“Too late!” Thissraelle said, laughing at Granthurg.

DeFrantis smiled, and Granthurg awkwardly set his bowl down. She continued, “This last month has changed my life. Everyone seems to look at me when we talk about our adventures, but we all brought the children home. We all fought together. Now, for the first time, I truly have a home.” She smiled at Antonerri, who gave her shoulder a squeeze. She stood and lifted her tankard. “Thank you all. Each of you risked your life for mine, and for the sake of the kids. Thank you, my dear friends!”

Everyone drank and cheered as she sat back down. Karendle nodded before drinking. I have never felt this before. I have never felt this... closeness... this belonging. 

She took a bit of bread, dipped it in her stew and began eating. What am I to do, now? I can’t return to Twynne Rivers. I’m not sure how long the monastery will let me stay there.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the cry of “Hear, ye! Hear, ye!”  Everyone turned toward the main door to see the source of the interruption. It was the pubcrier, there to call out the week’s news. As he started, people in the inn returned to their dinners. Karendle quickly tuned him out as well, until she heard him mention the Twynne Rivers Wizard’s Guild. She and Thissraelle both snapped up their attention and turned around to listen.

“...The Wizard’s guild has long opposed any attempt by the Royal Court to impose laws limiting the use of magic. However, King Hastone III, of House Twynham, may he live long, and protect us all, has issued a decree of a tax of 5 coppers to be levied against anyone using magic powers in a public place. Anyone using such powers and refusing to pay the toll will be arrested. His majesty decrees this as necessary to regulate the wanton chaos brought about by uncontrolled wizardry!”

The pubcrier continued on, “SummerFaire celebrations will continue throughout this month in various towns and hamlets throughout the Realm.  Those travelling the roads will be subject to th...” The attention the group paid to the pubcrier faded as they all turned back to the table to look at each other with questions on their faces. Bits of conversation drifted from other tables, “It’s about time they did something to stop them!”, “They should lock all the wizards away, I say!”...

Thissraelle seemed particularly disturbed. Eddiwarth asked, “So, what does this mean? What’s happening?”

“My father would never allow this!” Thissraelle crossed her arms, her head down. “Never!”

Karendle felt a chilly draft blow across the table, and shivered.

<<<>>>

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. If you like this story, support us at our Patreon!
Thank you: Chet Cox, Genevieve Springer!

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91 - A Sunny Day - Antonerri - A Tale of Heroes

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<<<>>>

“Your beard has come back in very nicely,” DeFrantis said, running her fingers across his chin. They relaxed under a tree in a field not too far from the faire. The sun was high in the mid-afternoon, warming the grounds and the air.  Somewhere the clack of wooden swords and the shouts and music of the celebration rang out, but the two were oblivious. She was half sitting, half lying on the grass as he rested his head in her lap, on the folds of her linen dress.

“I'm keeping it trimmed, but...,” he paused for a breath, “But the last time I actually shaved was over a month ago.”

He went quiet for a moment, as he thought back on all that happened that morning. A lot has happened since then. A lot has changed. She’s not so timid any more, not so likely to hide her beauty in the shadows. She’s brought me into light as well.

“I remember that day,” she chuckled, “You tried to sell me into slavery!”

“You told me to! It was your idea!”

He listened to her musical laugh. He also remembered that day. He remembered the fear. I remember the explosion, and the fight. Trying to find you, and find the children. That was a very dark day for me. I was so lost, so confused. Then at the cathedral...

Her voice got quiet, “There were many times, when we were in the manor, in chains, and then later, in the fight... Many times that I as good as gave up. I felt so alone. I didn’t know if you would ever find me. But I had to get out. I had to save the children. I gave all I could in the fight, but it wasn’t enough. I thought we were done. I thought it was over.”

A breeze blew across them, bringing a bit of cool in the warm shade. He started to speak, but she shushed him with a finger on his lips. “And then you stepped through Thissraelle's portal and I heard you call my name.”

She breathed deep and looked down on him, “That was all I needed. I heard you call my name, and it was like I could breathe again. Somehow you had found me, and that was all that mattered. I knew we would do it. I didn't know how, but I knew we could win.”

She continued, “And then I saw him hurting you, and I knew how much that pained you. I remembered from the dungeon. I wanted to take the shocks like you had done for me. And then I saw you alight with power...”

Antonerri sat up and faced her. He reached his arm around her. “It was your determination that saved the kids. I had to find you. It was you that saved me.”

He kissed her once, then again, then held her, face-to-face.

She reached up, embraced him, and held him, close and tight, not letting go.

In the distance, music played on, and people danced in the summer sun.

<<<>>>

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. If you like this story, support us at our Patreon!
Thank you: Chet Cox, Genevieve Springer!

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90 - Dance the Circle - Antonerri - A Tale of Heroes

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“DANCE THE CIRCLE!” The jester called out, “EVERYONE! JOIN IN! YOUNG AND OLD!” The bells dangling from the points on his hood jangled as he spun. His shirt was a loose pattern of colored triangles, and his baggy pants flapped with the motion of his prancing legs.

It was a hot, sunny, and muggy day. It was the time of the SummerFaire, three days of celebration. Dirae was not a large city, but neither was it a tiny village. It was an important trading spot between the palaces, shops, and slums of the City of Twynne Rivers, and the western hamlets along the Wynne River. The faire brought in celebrants from many miles, drawn to the festivities by the diversion from their labors as well as the chance to buy and sell.

The streets along the city plaza, not too far from the waterfront, were lined with tents, and full of people. There were more children out now, as parents felt safer in the town. Colorful streamers were strung from tree to building and building to tree. The smells of roasting nuts and newly-baked breads blew through the plaza with the breezes.

“WHO’LL JOIN ME?” The jester called out, continuing his swirls. He stopped, smiled across the crowd that had gathered, and slowly looked around. From his left, a drummer sitting on the ground began to slap out an energetic beat and, in a moment, a fiddler and a piper jumped into a melody.

“YOU WILL, WON’T YOU?” He pointed at DeFrantis. She barely had a moment to object before he had leapt over to her and taken her hand, dragging her forward. She laughed and shrieked, then reached out to grab the hand of Lilia, the young girl standing next to her. The girl, and two others, skipped into the circle, shouting and laughing.

Granthurg called out to them, as Thissraelle and Eddiwarth began clapping along with the music. Antonerri watched them go with a thin smile on his own face, wanting to jump in, but holding back, a little bit timid. They fell into the rhythm of the music and the many people in the plaza stepped aside to make room for the circle. Others grabbed hands and joined the line as it passed them. More children got in the line, along with their parents.

Antonerri couldn’t help but stare at DeFrantis as she danced, hand-in-hand with the jester and the kids. Her dark hair also danced as she looked back and forth from the jester to the children. She had tried to braid her dark hair that morning before they left, but it just wasn’t long enough yet. She had been quite a bit frustrated in trying, but in the end had settled for a simple cloth and bead headband. When they had arrived at the plaza, some of the girls had handed her some flowers they had picked and those were now twisted into that band and her hair. Those flowers now bounced with her locks against her forehead and down over her laughing eyes. The tune was familiar, and she and most of the dancers began singing along.

As the chain of dancers circled around to the music for the third time, the Jester reached out and grabbed Antonerri’s arm, giving him a shove into the line. Jerked out of his trance, Antonerri shouted and stumbled his way along.

The musicians picked up the pace, making it even harder for him to keep his proper footing. After a few moments, he gave up trying to match the steps and just jumped along in the line. In the confusion, he glanced over and saw DeFrantis laughing at his fumbling feet.

The music changed up again, and the jester stepped aside and closed the gap by bringing the two hands he was holding together. He spun away into the center, shouting, “DANCE THE CIRCLE! CIRCLE ROUND AND ROUND!” Antonerri suddenly realized the hand he was now holding was DeFrantis’. Instantly, he caught his breath, his mind went blank, and he almost lost his balance. A few quick side steps and he was back on his feet, jumping along.

“Try and keep up, old man!” He heard her say, and her voice mixed with the melody and the singing. He had to look down at his feet and catch his balance. He happened to look up and matched the jester’s eyes. They had a knowing smile that seemed to say, “You’re welcome!”

“Hey-o, hey-o...” DeFrantis’ sang with the crowd. He smiled at her, but didn’t know the melody. He didn’t have the breath to sing, anyway. “Hey-o, Hey-o,” The kids sang with her, as the musicians brought the tune and the dance to an end. The children began cheering, and everyone dropped their hands, clapping and laughing.

Except Antonerri. He just stared and smiled at her, and she at him. He didn’t let go. He gently tugged her closer.

<<<>>>

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. If you like this story, support us at our Patreon!
Thank you: Chet Cox, Genevieve Springer!

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88 - The Light Shines Again - Antonerri - A Tale of Heroes

Here's how you can read the story a week (two scenes) ahead of everyone else!

Note: Because of the Christmas Holiday Season, and because this is the final scene in the second story, we will take a one-week break. The next scene will be posted on Jan 3, 2019! See you then!

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Antonerri picked up a small reed from the cup by the candles. He gently held it in the flame of a candle. Soon, it caught fire with a small tongue of its own flame. He brought it across the altar to light more candles. They were short and wide, each one in its own glass bowl. There were dozens of them, some fresh and stout, others burned hollow. The altar was long, with a soft velvet-covered kneeling stool running along it, all the way across the front of the chapel.

He lit twelve of them, then whisked out the flame, before it could burn his fingers. Five for the ones we rescued at the manor, three for the ones we brought back from the market, and four for the ones we couldn’t find.

Several days of rest, herbal ointments, and care had done much to ease the pains he had endured. Still, he felt the soreness as he knelt before the altar and bowed his head. His mind reflected back on the changes these few short weeks had brought. His future was still uncertain. I can’t go back to the Holy Guard. In Twynne Rivers, I am a heretic, an outcast. But, for now, the brothers here in the wooded abbey sheltered him and his friends, alongside the orphanage.

His mind flowed through thoughts of those he had fought next to. They were such strangers, but bonded together by circumstances. He felt the deep gratitude that comes with having good friends, a feeling he wasn’t accustomed to.

He heard a rustling of robes, and sensed someone kneeling beside him. He opened his eyes and looked, then smiled. “Brother Mathazar!”

“Forgive me for interrupting your prayers.”

“Are you visiting the abbey?”

The friar shifted and sat on the altar stool. “When I heard that you had all returned with the children, I wanted to come see you!”

Antonerri smiled. “I’m glad you did.”

Brother Mathazar smiled back. “That’s a much brighter visage than what I saw before. You must be feeling much better.” They embraced briefly. “You all placed your own lives in great danger for the lives of weak children. A few have returned to their parents, others are here in the orphanage. The slave market is in shambles. All of Dirae is talking about you.”

Antonerri turned his gaze back to the candles. He looked deep into a flame. “I have seen light in other people where I thought it was gone.” He remembered the feeling of warmth and brightness that had brought him out of the darkness in the manor house. “And I’ve seen the light inside of me again.”

Brother Mathazar nodded. “I knew it was there.”

Antonerri also nodded, and closed his eyes.

Light footsteps interrupted them, and they both looked back to see DeFrantis standing in the chapel aisle. The dress she wore was not as fancy or lacy as Thissraelle’s style, but certainly finer than her rough and ragged street shirt and leggings. Her dark hair, though nicely brushed, still hung down into her eyes. They shone with a peace and calm that Antonerri had only come to see in the last few days. Standing behind her hip, behind her dress, was Lilia, a young girl of about 8 winters. Since they came back from the manor in the woods, she was never far from DeFrantis’ side.

“The brothers in the kitchen have asked me to gather everyone for dinner...” She said, then waited for them. They stood and walked to her. She turned with them and they all stepped down the aisle together, with Lilia skipping ahead, her hair and dress swinging with each jump. The low afternoon sunlight shone through the tall stained glass windows, spreading heavenly vivid colors over the pews and onto the opposite wall.

“...And to remind you that we have scullery duty afterward.”


The End of Story Two

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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. If you like this story, support us at our Patreon!
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87 - Escape and Rest - DeFrantis - A Tale of Heroes

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Antonerri grunted as he lifted DeFrantis up into the wagon. Then, he climbed up in to the bed and shifted her over. He covered her in blankets and she welcomed the warmth. As she settled, she reached up and took hold of Antonerri’s arm. “Thank you,” she breathed. He smiled, and moved to help the others as they approached the wagon.

She grabbed him and pulled him back. She said with a whisper, “Where are the children? Are they safe?”

Antonerri’s face suddenly flooded with awareness and surprise. “I.. I don’t know...”

“Where are they?” She tried to sit up, “We have to find them! We’re not leaving without them! I left them with Karendle!”

Antonerri gently set her back. He tried to remember. “Maybe she gathered them as we were escaping. Maybe Thissraelle has them.” He tried to assure her, “I’ll go see.”

As he climbed out of the wagon, DeFrantis crawled to the back gate, looking out, but still too weak to get out. Karendle was approaching, limping, supported by Eddiwarth’s only partly steady step. Behind them, with an equally labored pace, came Granthurg and Thissraelle. Granthurg’s shirt was in bloody, tattered ruin, but his chest, arms, and torso were healed. Still, he was walking slowly and with stiffness.

“Where ar--” DeFrantis tried to shout, before lapsing into a fit of rasping and coughing.

“Where are the children?” Antonerri finished for her. “Did anyone see them? Did anyone get them?”

“Relax,” Karendle said, “I have them. I kept them safe.” She arrived at the wagon and leaned on it for support.

“Where are they?” Antonerri pressed, as DeFrantis gestured anxiously.

Karendle reached into her pouch and shook the oculi out into her hand. Two gray stones and one blue gem. She picked up one of the gray oculi and held it up, with a self-satisfied smile. “I told the kids there was going to be a big, dangerous fight, and that I wanted to keep them safe. There was one place they could go where I knew no one could get to them! They were - I mean - are... very brave.”

DeFrantis relaxed and nodded. She reached out and took the stone in her hand. She whispered the children’s names as she cradled it close to her and settled back into the wagon. We’ll let them out when we’re out of the forest. Out of danger.

“Wait!” Karendle interjected, startling DeFrantis. She held up the other gray stone. “Is this one the kids? Or is it the wizard?” She stepped forward and looked at them both very closely.

“That one’s the kids.” She pointed. “I’m sure.”

She looked at the one in her hand. “I think...”

Granthurg lifted Thissraelle up into the wagon bed, then moved toward the horses. Antonerri looked quizzically at Eddiwarth. “Who are you?” Eddiwarth’s fine shirt was covered in dirt and soot, and he held up a grimy hand in greeting. He took a breath to speak.

Karendle interrupted, “He’s with me.” Antonerri glanced back at her. “Really, he’s a good guy.” Antonerri looked at DeFrantis, pointing both at Eddiwarth and Karendle. DeFrantis smiled and nodded. Yeah, they’re with me. They’re with us.

The old wagon creaked hard with the added weight of the extra riders, but it lurched ahead, tossing back and forth as it rolled away from the manor and into the forest.

<<<>>>

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. If you like this story, support us at our Patreon!
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86 - The Light Shines - Antonerri - A Tale of Heroes

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“DeFrantis!” Antonerri shouted, “Hold on!”

He shifted his sword and rushed toward the mage, who held her in a death grip in the air. Anger flowed through his arms. Rage drove his feet.

When he got only a few steps away, the wizard casually pointed and a blast of energy arced across the space between them. It hit Antonerri in the chest and shocked him, jolting him back from his trajectory. He rolled away, his legs twitching with the pain of the surge.

“You are all pathetic! What do you think you’re doing? You ruin my market, attack my home, and kill my people...” The mage snarled, and stepped toward DeFrantis. She struggled, gasping for breath, her eyes widened with fear. “For what?”

He lowered DeFrantis until she was just a few feet off the ground and drew her forward to him. “For what? What is it you’re trying to take from me? Street kids? Vermin? You should thank me for cleaning them out of the cities.”

His gaze narrowed as his stare dug into DeFrantis’ eyes. “They’re nothing. NOTHING! Just to be meals for Dragons!” DeFrantis’ eyes suddenly widened as the horror of the understanding struck her.

Don’t touch her. Antonerri struggled against the pain in his limbs. He knelt, then stood. I will save her. We will save them. You will not hurt them any more.

The wizard broke his stare and raised his hand toward Antonerri again. “Stop!”

Antonerri stepped forward, and brought his sword up before him.

“You’re determined, I can see,” The mage said with tight lips. “Let me introduce you to PAIN!”  More lightning surged from his outstretched palm, striking Antonerri. The energy shot through his limbs, driving him to his knees. Again and again, the mage blasted, tearing screams of anguish from Antonerri’s throat.

Finally, he stopped, and Antonerri collapsed.

His body felt the pain, the familiar pain. I took the blasts for you once before, and I lived.

A new sensation rippled through his shoulders and down his spine, along with the pain. I lived, and later, I chose to live. He lifted himself up, and picked up his sword again, as the warm feeling grew in him. I choose to live, now. I will defend the weak. I will fight for the poor. I will fight for you!  

Antonerri stood and straightened his back.

The mage’s blast struck again. Antonerri felt the jolt, felt the pain, but didn’t scream. The warm glow strengthened with the blast.

I will fight for the children.

The wizard shouted in rage and tossed DeFrantis, gasping, to the side. He stepped toward Antonerri and threw shocking blasts at him with both hands. “You will die! Feel the Pain! Feel the Pain!”

Antonerri felt it coursing through his body. Pain wracked his limbs, but he stood. The light around him supported him, strengthened him, enlightened him.

The mage raged and blasted again, but it was much weaker. His will was fading. “Feel the Pain! Why don’t you die?”

Antonerri coughed, then spoke. “Pain and I are old friends.”  He raised his sword. A familiar power welled up inside him, a light he had not felt in a long time. He focused this will into the blade. It burst into a bright radiance, with rays of light flowing off of it into the smoky air. He stepped forward, moving through the ache.

“You will not...”  He stepped again. “You will not hurt anyone...”

The wizard took a step back, and fear rushed over him. He held his hands out before him, but no powers came.

“... EVER AGAIN!” Antonerri lunged forward in two deep strides and thrust his sword before him. He drove the bright flaming blade deep into the mage’s chest. The wizard gasped for breath, flailing his arms, grasping at Antonerri’s shoulders. The sword’s light burned through him. The wizard’s eyes rolled up, his head dropped back, his legs failed, and he fell to the floor.

Antonerri turned around to see his companions staring at him. Granthurg sat up, and Karendle moved out from under him. Thissraelle stood, supporting Granthurg.

Antonerri looked down at his glowing sword and hands. As he straightened up, he saw DeFrantis where she lay on the floor. He rushed to her and held her head up. She was still drawing very heavy breaths, but her eyes were full of relief and tears. He slid his slowly dimming sword under his belt, and reached under her, lifting her up. He could feel her tension face as the light absorbed into her. He called out to the others, “Gather everyone! Let’s get out of here before it all burns down.”

DeFrantis nodded and buried her head into Antonerri’s shoulder. “Gather the children...” she mumbled with what breath she could muster.

<<<>>>

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. If you like this story, support us at our Patreon!
Thank you: Chet Cox, Genevieve Springer!

Previous Scene, Next Scene
Start the whole story from the beginning. Start from where this current story arc begins. Start from where the current story part begins