About the Hiatus

The Adventurous Pen was started as an online journal with the aspirations of becoming a full-fledged ezine. After an initial run, we are closing our doors temporarily to revamp while the publisher spends his days living in a cave, writing his next book. This will be followed by a round of hitchhiking and festivals throughout the summer. Expect to see us return around autumn 2014 as a leading ezine market for the adventurous spirit in us all.

-The Publisher

Publisher's Mind: Beneath the Cherry Tree

Her lips pressed against mine, soft and dripping with the taste of paradise. I embraced her longingly beneath the cherry tree’s warm, pink leaves in the early autumn sun, wrapping my arms tightly around her waist.

A new light shone in her brilliant, green eyes as the kiss I had waited for since early childhood came to end, my soft, blue eyes glowing just the same. I brushed my hand through her chestnut hair, barely able to contain my ecstasy.

“Took you long enough,” Emilie teased.

She was right. We’d known each other as long as I could remember and now we were in our mid-teens. She was my best friend, and I hers. We had only each other as we watched the world fall apart around us.

The Final War had started when we were eight. It’s crazy to think that had only been seven years before that day beneath the cherry tree. The war lasted a long three years filled with hunger and disease. Our area was too far from anywhere important in Middle-of-No-Where, Ohio to see the fires that raged across our country, but that was never much of a reassurance when every news broadcast on the television and radio that remained in-tact reminded us every day of the struggles along the coasts, knowing it could reach us at any time if the levee broke.

You’d think our parents would have stayed strong, but they had completely deteriorated by the end of the first year. Emilie’s father started drinking when her mother passed away from a particularly devastating flu that had ravaged the nation when the war began. My father just left. My mother still functioned normally during the day, keeping up with her job in fast-food for minimum wage. Once she was home it was like she just fried out, holing herself up in her room for hours on end. Eventually, she broke and the sickness got her, too. Part of me died every day I watched her fade.

I became homeless, living in a tent in some local woods. The world was burning and this place was all I had ever known. That, and Emilie would refuse to leave her father, while I refused to leave Emilie.

We kept each other company throughout countless days and broken nights filled with tears. The world was strange and jaded, but we were familiar. I held her when the bombs fell at the end of the war, but it was just as friends. It had always been that way and we were both afraid to change it.

None of it mattered that autumn day. I don’t even know what came over me. We were talking about something I can’t remember and I just leaned in and kissed her. She looked so beautiful with rose pink petals dancing around her in the wind.

I awoke from a long death beneath the cherry tree. I had forgotten what it was like to be happy until that moment when the rest of the world melted away. Emilie was mine, and I hers.

“Run away with me.”

“Only if you’ll always hold me like this.”

“I promise.”

We kissed again. I owed her a hundred kisses, then a thousand more. My cheeks became streaked with joy.

The days that followed were never easy, but having Emilie by my side made every moment worth it. With the war long gone, she and I wandered about the ruins of a once-great nation. Many cities that used to shine brightly with towering buildings and magnificent lights had been left with no illumination at all, while others had been fortunate enough to thrive under primitive, tribal-like governments. The people in those cities were usually kind, though often wary of strangers. Who could blame them? Anarchy swept the nation in the wake of the war’s end.

It was easier to live outside the remains of civilization. The country remained lawless, but the mountain kept us fed. That, and I loved the endless expanse of green; finding in it a serenity that allowed me to forget the war had happened. Emilie even befriended a hare she made me promise not to trap. I guess I grew fond of that adorable, brown ball of bouncing fur, too. I loved watching Emilie cuddle Jasper.

My happiness and pride grew with Emilie’s swelling belly. The dark storms of our past had become distant, fading memories that left the ground fertile for new life to bloom.

I was hunting when I saw the tracks. Standing out against the landscape that hadn’t been disturbed by another human for years, I wasn’t sure how to feel about the three sets of footprints I found following the riverbank up the mountain. All I knew – all that mattered – was they were heading my home where Emilie rested in wait for my return, already late in her pregnancy.

I thought I could catch up. Why had I spent so much time hunting that day? The worst part was hearing her scream when I was nearly there. Perhaps I shouldn’t have called back. Maybe then they wouldn’t have known I was on my way.

Seeing her lie there, covered in blood and peppered with bruises, I felt that last sparkle of my soul shrivel away. A blood-curdling scream rose up out of my chest as I chased after the ones who had taken her from me. I wish I could remember their deaths. Blinded by rage, I tore them apart until there was nothing left to tear.

With nothing left to keep me in the mountains, I began to wander again. It felt different, colder. I paid little mind to other people. Everyone I ever loved had gone, taking what was left of me with them. Most of the time my feet would carry me on their own accord. It’s not like I cared where I landed, anyway.

The taste of autumn’s early breeze, forgotten and familiar, filled my senses when I realized where I was. Before me stood a cherry tree left frozen by time; its soft, pink petals dancing in the wind. For a brief moment, nothing had changed. Emilie and I were still young, holding each other tightly for that first, passionate kiss.

I wept for love and for loss, happiness and sorrow. The cherry tree still stood while my world had been cut down. I lay beneath the tree, holding my love as I slept.

---

Charles Whaley the publisher of The Adventurous Pen and author of Through Kaleidoscopes. He spends his nights in a cave in the foothills of Appalachia while working on his next book. 

Publisher's Mind: Ballad of Nelsonberg

Note: This story was originally written as a Christmas gift for some of my friends: Bo, Tom (Tim), Lindsey, Lindsey and Andy. 

Part I – Bo and Tom

The sun beamed down on the field of grass as Bo continued to swing his sword against the training post. He was getting warmed up for the sparring session with his mentor in preparation for Bo’s Trial. Nearly ready for knighthood, Bo had to prove himself with a quest. Pounding away at the post, Bo wondered what task would be assigned in these peaceful times. He counted himself lucky his Trial didn’t involve going into war, though he knew his task would still require him to put his skills and bravery to the test. Maybe he would have to bring back a mountain lion’s pelt for the duke. Whatever it ended up being, Bo felt confident that he would find the task easy enough. How could he not? It was almost unbearably exciting, the thought of his first real adventure.

            Of course, it’s not like I would be alone, he thought. I have Tom to go with me.

            Every knight in the kingdom of Nelsonberg had a wizard to provide wisdom and protection. Tom was Bo’s wizard. Or, at least he would be. As Bo was yet to gain his knighthood, Tom was still a wizard’s apprentice. Their own rights would have to be earned together as the law taught the importance of the bond between a knight and his wizard.

            Bo paused his swings to breathe.

            “You’re not stopping already, are you?” Bo heard his mentor’s voice from behind him and spun around.

            “Just a quick breath,” Bo replied. “I’m far from finished.”

            “Good,” his mentor said with a nod, drawing his own sword from its sheath. “I’m sure you won’t mind showing me, then?”

            Without another word, Bo’s mentor lunged. His sword swung with his motion, rolling into Bo’s parry and bouncing off. He used the momentum to create a spin and launched an attack on Bo’s other side, but Bo blocked again and launched an attack of his own. Bo felt a rush as the two exchanged blows. This is what he was made for. Suddenly, Bo’s mentor threw his leg into the fray and tripped Bo up. The man looked down at his squire and smiled.

            “You’re getting better, but there’s still a lot you have to learn.”

            Bo sighed. His mentor was right.

            Just then, a bell began to ring. Both Bo and his mentor were suddenly alert. Bo sprung up and the two of them raced off towards the grand hall. That bell was never a good sign.

            Upon reaching the hall, Bo felt himself relax a little. At least the village wasn’t under attack. A crowd had gathered, though, and was looking quite anxious to know what had caused the concern. Bo’s mentor made his way to the front where the senior knights were discussing what had happened. Bo had followed along and got a few glances from some of the knights that told him perhaps he shouldn’t have.

            I don’t see why, Bo thought. I’ll be a knight soon anyway.

            “Two of my men were knocked out by magic and the Dragon’s Treasure is missing,” the captain of the guard finally announced.

            Shocked gasped escaped anyone close enough to hear. The Dragon’s Treasure was a ruby that could be used by a dragon mage to summon and control Bonerous, a dragon trapped within the gem so the village could be built. Not only was the village now without its greatest defense, but someone now had that weapon to use against the kingdom. Suddenly everyone there felt vulnerable.

            “Do we know who did it?” a voice spoke up amongst the murmurs.

            The captain’s gaze was cold as it fixed upon Bo. “Where is your wizard’s apprentice?” he asked in a commanding tone.

            Bo could feel the eyes of everyone in the room turn to him. He began to grow uncomfortable as he answered, “I don’t know. It couldn’t have been Tom.”

            The captain’s gaze never wavered, his voice never faltered, “This was done by a firespirit wizard, my men say. So I’d suggest you find your wizard soon if you hope to make a case for his innocence.”

            That was all Bo needed to hear. He nodded and spun around, disappearing back into the crowd. Bo covered ground at a steady pace as he made his way towards Tom’s master’s hut. He hoped he would find his friend there. It couldn’t have been Tom. Bo reached the gate. So did Tom.

            “Sorry I’m late. I can’t find Tim anywhere today. Do you know what the bell was about?”

            Bo felt like a stone had sunk in his stomach. Still, he felt relieved that Tom really hadn’t taken the gem. “Tom, I think Tim might have taken the Dragon’s Treasure. You better come with me. Quick,” Bo beckoned.

            Tom looked aghast, but followed anyway, “What? It couldn’t be.”

            “I hope not, either,” was all Bo could offer.

            As they reached the hall again, Bo noticed there were considerably less people. The crowd had dispersed, leaving only the knights behind as they continued to discuss the best plan of action. Henry, the duke, had also been summoned and was deep in conversation with the captain of the guard when Bo and Tom entered the room. Everyone fell silent as the two appeared.

            “Well boy?” one of the knights spoke up.

            Bo let out a breath before he began to talk, “Tom’s brother Tim is missing.”

            The hall fell into an uproar. “Enough,” the duke’s voice quelled the chatter. “Tom, when was the last time you heard from Tim?”

            Tom found speaking difficult as he answered, “Last night. He never reported for today’s lessons. But I don’t know why he might do something like this.”

            The captain of the guard gave a snort, “Well he did. So where do you think he might have gone?”

            “I don’t know,” Tom sounded defeated for a moment while he let everything sink in. After a moment’s pause, he continued, “but I think I might be able to find him. He’s my brother. Give me the chance, sir.”

            “What are you suggesting?” the captain inquired.

            Tom glanced at Bo, “Make this our Trial. We can get the gem back.”

            The room sat in silence for a moment, everyone hanging on the duke’s next words. When he spoke, he did so directly to Bo and Tom’s mentors, “Well?”

            Tom’s mentor, who was Tim’s mentor too, was the first to respond. “Perhaps it is best,” he offered. Bo’s mentor gave a curt nod as his only reply.

            “So it’s settled, then,” the duke announced. “Bo and Tom shall ride off tomorrow in search Tim and the Dragon’s Treasure. May we pray for our safety until their return.”

Part II – The Journey Begins

            Bo heard the knock at his door, rustling him from his slumber, “Enter.”

            Tom came in. “People have been saying they think they saw Tim heading for the eastern border.”

            Bo nodded, “You think he’s going to Gloustchire?”

            “I fear so,” Tom answered, grimly. Gloustchire was Nelsonberg’s greatest enemy in the current times, the tension between the two bringing them to the edge of war more than once in the past year alone.

            “We must make haste, then,” Bo declared.

            The two of them made their way back to the hall to meet with the captain of the guard before taking their leave. They could feel a sense of uneasiness in the air. Everywhere seemed to bustle only out of urgency, rather than its usual liveliness. The environment already seemed hostile. Nelsonberg was vulnerable and everyone knew it.

            “There you are,” the captain of the guard exclaimed when Bo and Tom made their way into the hall at last. “I take it you’ve heard the rumors going around?”

            “We have,” Bo answered. “Don’t worry, we’ll move as fast as we can.”

            The captain nodded his approval, then narrowed his eyes at Tom, “Are you sure you can handle this? He is your brother.”

            Tom drew in a breath of air. He had been waiting for this. “I’ll do what I have to,” he answered the captain, holding his gaze.

            “Good. You both know what’s at stake here. Win and become knight and wizard, lose… and we all do.”

            That statement sunk in hard in the silence that followed. Bo finally spoke back up, “Rations?”

            “There’s a loaf of bread already waiting for each of you with your horses. Now get to the stables.”

            The point was clear. They had already wasted too much time. Without another word, Bo and Tom spun around and made their way towards the stables at an elevated pace. Laraine, the stable maid, was waiting on them when they arrived. Handing them each their bread sack and horse, she pushed them onward. “Took your time, I see,” she had criticized at their arrival. “At this rate the whole kingdom will be up in flames by morrow.”

            Is that really what the townspeople are thinking, Bo wondered. Then, more grimly, what if they’re right?

            As worried as they both were, both Bo and Tom felt a rush as they mounted their steads. This was it, their trial to gain their rights. Tom looked over at Bo, “You ready?”

            “Let’s do this,” Bo replied, giving his horse a kick.

            The thundering sound of hooves pounded against the ground as the two rode hard throughout the day, stopping only to give the horses quick breaks from the heavy riding. The sky was just starting to darken as they came to the border between the kingdoms. “We need to keep riding,” Tom had said what they both knew. “We’ve already lost a day of travel.”

            “We’ll have to be careful, though,” Bo pointed out. “Arousing suspicion is the last thing we want to do.”

            They continued forward, letting their horses slow to a walking gate. The moon was at its peak as the two finally reached the edge of the Gloustchire walls. Bo and Tom dismounted their rides and tied them to nearby trees. “Well, we’re here,” Tom announced. “Now, how do we get in?”

            “I know,” said Bo. “Do you think you could use magic to raise the gate? I can storm in as soon as it’s up and dispatch the guards. It’s night, there shouldn’t be too much trouble.”

            “I can try,” Tom replied.

            They snuck up to the gate, hugging the wall. As they came up on the entrance, Bo slowly drew his sword. They paused and Bo gathered himself for a moment, then he turned to Tom and nodded. Tom focused his energy, lifting the gate as Bo swung in.

            “Hey!” one of the guards shouted in surprise before Bo could dispatch him. Bo silently cursed to himself. He had hoped they could pull this off a bit more quietly.

            The damage was done. As Tom filed in behind Bo, they could already hear footsteps approaching their position. Trapped within the enemy’s city, Bo and Tom found their element of surprise was gone.

Part III – An Archer Arrives

Are these two trying to get themselves killed, Lindsey wondered bitterly. The huntress had watched the whole scene unfold from her window in the Inn. She wondered what the fuss was all about and glancing at her bow trying to decide if it was worth trying to find out. Part of her wanted to just go back to bed, while the other part of her was dying with curiosity. She could just watch the scene play out. After all, it could likely be over soon. The intruders had not acted quickly enough and now more guards were on the way. Lindsey glanced over at the two intruders, then back at her bow. Finally, she sighed. You’re lucky you’re cute, whoever you are. Lindsey grabbed her bow and notched an arrow, letting lose just as the reinforcement guards came face to face with the two intruders.

Bo stared in astonishment for a brief moment as he watched one of the guards collapse while coming around the corner, an arrow lodged into his back. The other guard looked back and Bo seized the opportunity to lunge forward and take care of the other guard. Bo took a moment to cast his senses around and listen for the sound of more approaching guards. Satisfied no more guards were on the way, Bo glanced up to see where the arrow had come from. He saw a face looking down at him from a window and raised his sword in thanks.

Lindsey smiled. She was impressed with the fighter. Well I guess now’s the time to find out what’s going on, she thought before jumping gracefully out the window.

Bo watched the figure that had just launched itself from the window stand up. A woman, he thought in shock, and a gorgeous one.

“I believe I owe you my thanks,” Bo was finally able to say.

“So do I get an explanation?” Lindsey inquired.

“Very well,” Bo nodded. “My name is Bo of Nelsonberg and this,” he indicated towards Tom, “is my wizard, Tom. We’re on a quest to reclaim what was stolen from our kingdom before we’re forced into war.”

“A knight and his wizard, off to save the kingdom,” Lindsey reiterated with a smile.

“Well, I’m not a knight yet,” Bo said, a bit embarrassed. “But I will be once we return.”

“Well then, Sir Bo, should we be moving before more guards show up and realize were discussing the affairs of another kingdom over a few bodies?” Lindsey teased.

“Right,” Bo felt embarrassed yet again. He had let the arrival of this woman distract him from the situation.

“This way,” Tom’s voice broke in. “I can feel my brother.”

Bo and Tom strode towards the castle while trying to remain unseen. Lindsey followed, keeping pace. “You know we’re going straight into danger,” Bo told the archer. “Are you sure you want to be tagging along?”

“Are you kidding? I wouldn’t miss this excitement! Besides, you’d have had even more to worry about if it weren’t for me,” Lindsey fired back.

Bo sighed in resignation. After all, that was true. “Well can I at least know your name? It’s only fair since you know ours.”

“Lindsey,” the huntress answered with a smile.

“If I can cut in with your flirting, you might want to know something,” Tom’s voice oozed alarm.

Bo had known his friend long enough to know when something was wrong. He let his senses reach out and froze. Lindsey could feel their tension and followed suit. They were all being watched. At a quick glance, Bo could discern five notched arrows surrounding them and guessed there were more. Instinctively, he reached for his sword while Lindsey made for her bow.

“I wouldn’t,” Bo and Tom felt shivers course throughout their bodies as Tim’s voice rang out loud and clear. All three of them froze, Lindsey starting to wonder if getting involved was such a good idea.

Another voice rang out, “Drop your weapons.”

Part IV – Acquiring an Assassin

            Tired and defeated, the three found it difficult to sleep in the dungeon. A black man sat in the corner away from the group. The three kept casting anxious glances at him, unsure if they could trust the silent figure that seemed to have thoughts racing through his head as they talked.

            “There has to be a way out,” Bo refused to accept that it was over. “We have to save Nelsonberg. They don’t stand a chance against the armies of Gloustchire and a dragon.” He slammed his fists against the wall.

            “Calm down in there,” one of the guards shouted from outside.

            After another moment, Lindsey spoke up, “A dragon? You didn’t say anything about a dragon.”

            “Not that it matters from here,” Bo sighed.

            “It can if your dragon mage summons his spirit guide,” the man in the room spoke up and shocked them all. Then, the realization of what he said hit them.

            “Dragon mage? Tom’s just a wizard’s apprentice,” Bo announced in confusion.

            The man’s voice remained firm, “I can see his energy. There’s no way you can tell me he is not a dragon mage, whether he knows it or not.”

            “Who are you?” Tom asked.

            “The name’s Andy. I’m a Hominis Umbraite.”

            “An assassin of the shadows,” Bo cut in. “So how did such a legendary breed of assassin end up in the dungeons here?”

            “Same way you did, I imagine,” Andy left the topic at that.

            Bo snorted to show his disapproval with the lack of explanation, “So how do propose that, even if we can get out, we make it back to Nelsonberg before the invasion?”

            “Easy,” the assassin retorted. “You help me, I help you. I can get you a ride on a boat. That should make up for your lost time.”

            “Great, but that doesn’t change the fact that Tom still isn’t a dragon mage.” Bo glanced over at Tom, “Are you?”

            “Our mother thought it could be dangerous for us if people knew who our father was,” Tom replied.

            Things started to make a little more sense to Bo. “Alright,” he moved on. “So how about summoning your spirit guide so we can get out?”

            Tom nodded, “I’ve only done it once before. I’ll give it a try.”

            Focusing all his energy, Tom began to glow. Suddenly, his energy became its own entity and it morphed into the shape of a dragon. Bo and Lindsey gasped in awe. The energy dragon was shined a bright blue. It slammed into the cell door, dissolving it. The dragon faded and Tom opened his eyes before collapsing from exhaustion. Bo caught his friend before he hit the floor, but he knew they had to execute their escape quickly and flawlessly before the guards down the hall noticed something had happened. The lack of weapons would make that task a bit more difficult. Tom was their only hope.

            Gathering himself after such a powerful spell, Tom regained his footing and prepared to become a hero. He snuck down the hall as quietly as he could, a ball of energy at the ready in his hand. Turning the corner, he pushed his energy out at the guards. With the coast clear, the group of four made their way out of the dungeon.

            “So now what,” Lindsey asked as they reached the surface. Daylight was already peeking out on the horizon. “We’re still weaponless and we’re sure to be discovered soon.”

Part V – On the Sea

            “Follow me,” Andy called out, already on the move. He led them to the town’s shipyard as the sun continued to rise. Bo, Tom and Lindsey began to worry as people started to go about their day. It wouldn’t be long until someone came to relieve the guards and realized they had escaped. Andy took them straight up to some shipman with crazy, orange hair.

            The shipman stared in disbelief, “Andy! Good to see you, man!”

            “Still have my spare weapons?” Andy asked the man.

            “They’re onboard. Come on and I’ll get them for you,” the shipman answered, motioning towards his ship. “What brings you out this way?”

            “I’m on a mission. There was a minor setback but now things should be running smoothly again. Better, actually,” Andy said with a glance at the three travelers. “These people seek immediate passage to Nelsonberg. From what I gather, it’s rather urgent.”

            The shipman nodded, “Then they’ll have it. The name’s Captain Chucke and I can get you there by midday.”

            “That’ll have to do,” Bo still sounded anxious, though a wave of relief crashed over him and he felt himself relax a bit.

            “Besides,” the captain announced, “I was getting ready to sail that way anyway. Just picked up a passenger last night looking to head that way.”

            Alarm shot through Bo, “Who?”

            “Some elf named Lindsey,” the captain answered. “Said she felt like she needed to, she did.”

            “Lindsey Squared! I didn’t know she was in town,” Lindsey piped up, rather excitedly.

            “Someone you know?” Bo asked.

            “You could say that,” the voice came from behind them. The elegant figure embraced the archer in a warm hug. “How have you been? On the hunt, I see.”

            Lindsey felt hot with embarrassment as she saw Lindsey Squared’s eyes graze Bo. “It’s not like that! I just helped these guys out of some trouble last night. I couldn’t let the excitement pass me up.”

            “Excitement, eh? So that’s what you’re calling it? Why are you still tagging along, then?” Lindsey Squared called Lindsey out.

            Lindsey was silent. Bo couldn’t help but smile. A horn sounded off in the distance. People were already starting to rouse from sleep and go about their day. The group tensed up at the sound of the horn.

            “That’s our cue,” Captain Chucke cut in, snapping everyone to motion.

            “Weapons,” Andy was quick to take direction.

            Captain Chucke nodded, “Right. Follow me.”

            The assembled gang bustled unto the ship, making their way to the cabin. Chucke opened up a chest to retrieve some odd weapons, a scythe and a handful of throwing Kamas. He promptly handed the weapons over to Andy.

Andy took them and turned to the rest of the crew, “Well you have your ride. I’ll be off.”

“You’re going to just leave?” Bo asked.

“Did you expect an assassin to drop everything and follow a knight forever? You helped me, I helped you. I still have my own mission here, and it just might help you too. At least I can buy you some time.”

He said the last words with a devilish grin. Everyone knew exactly what he meant; Andy wanted to cause a distraction. Bo smiled back, “There’s more than one way to be a hero.”

It you had blinked, you would have missed it. Andy was gone. Captain Chucke cut the moment short, “Time to get this ship moving.”

The captain made his way to the helm to take the wheel. Lindsey looked around in confusion, “Where’s the rest of the crew?”

“Gone fishing,” Chucke replied without hesitation. “Don’t worry, though. The sea is magic, you know?”

“That doesn’t even make any sense,” Lindsey retorted, but to no avail as the ship gave a lurch, hoisted the sails, and began to move of its own accord. In fact, Chucke hadn’t even touched the wheel at all. Rather, he stood there simply waving back and forth rather slowly and just appeared quite odd. Lindsey was speechless.

“Is he mad?” she was finally able to get out. The rest of the group had seemed equally stunned for a moment.

“Aren’t we all?” Tom snapped out of his daze at Lindsey’s words.

An explosion from the shore stole everyone’s attention. No one was sure exactly what Andy had done to cause such a big commotion when nothing he had was explosive, but they were all sure it was him creating chaos.

“He sounds like he’s having fun,” Lindsey Squared commented, bringing a smile to everyone’s faces.

“You know we can’t go back,” Tom shot the words across to Bo.

Bo felt his heart sink. “There’s nothing we can do. We have to warn everyone,” he defended.

“You know the rules. We left to stop the invasion before it gets home. Everyone knows what’s coming. We can’t stop it there. We don’t have a choice. I say we catch ourselves ahead of the marching armies then meet them on the road.”

“But that’s suicide,” Bo argued.

Tom shook his head, “It doesn’t have to be, hear me out. Only Tim and I have the power to use the Dragon’s Treasure. Just give me a shot at my brother. That’s all we need.”

Bo sighed, “You know I’ll stick with you.”

“I’ll be there too,” Lindsey said, excitedly.

Lindsey Squared smirked knowingly, then joined in, “May as well count me in too”

“Sounds crazy, I love it! Count me in, too,” Captain Chucke stood amongst the group, having completely abandoned the wheel. No one seemed surprised anymore.

After a couple hours sailing, the crew could see the marching armies pass through the tree line. It felt like everyone on board was holding their breath, even though they knew that the invaders had no idea who was passing them by sea. They all continued to sail a bit longer, finally laying anchor off the coast, rowing onto the shore. Chucke had remained in the ship, though he kept the ship anchored. He said he would be able to provide a good surprise. After seeing him on the way here, they didn’t doubt it. At least the crew was fully armed once more. Lindsey Squared had an extra bow for Lindsey and Captain Chucke had given Bo a fine sword.

“So what do you want to do?” Bo looked at Tom. “This is your plan, now.”

Tom began to study the area for a moment before he spoke, “The sand will help hide our tracks. Lindsey, Lindsey Squared, can you two create some in front and in back to cause some confusion? The trees should provide a good vantage point, just get a good spot on the edges of the field so you’ve got good berth. Bo, help to draw their attention so they’re not entirely focused on where the barrage of arrows is coming from. It’ll be a hard fight and you’ll have to swing true, but I have faith in you. I can veil myself and use the confusion to obtain the Dragon’s Treasure from my brother.”

Everyone found their spots. The Lindsey duo had each found a tree at different sides of the field, while Bo lay low in the field, hiding in the tall grass. Tom stood at the edge of the field, waiting, a blanket of invisibility cast over him. They were all ready, but that didn’t stop them from tensing when the army marched passed. The invading forces were smaller than the group had expected. Bo realized this was probably a result of whatever fuss Andy was stirring up in Gloustchire.

Once the marching forces had funneled into the field, the Lindsey duo began to fire. The first couple of rounds caught the army by surprise, but they quickly realized the attack and sprang into motion. Bo leapt up, springing himself at the invaders. He was able to dispatch a couple soldiers who were looking around for the source of the arrows without a problem, but ran into more trouble once he became the target of attention. Bo was swarmed. Forced into a position where he could only find time to block the mass of blows being swung in his direction, he was relieved the army had created a self-imposed funnel to get at him and was able to parry the blows away. He knew he couldn’t keep this up for long, though. The number of soldiers was overwhelming for a lone fighter. Tom better be quick, he thought to himself, real quick.

 A sudden blast of large, metal balls began to fire at the crowd. The ship didn’t even have cannons or cannon holes, yet now it seemed it were built for naval warfare. Bo was perplexed, but glad. The strange attack had shifted the tide on the field yet again, leaving Bo free to dart off to safety.

A red flash stopped the battle cold. Every last soul on the field paused to watch as a spinning vortex of energy formed a dimensional rift on the battlefield. Long, scaly claws reached out from the other side. Bo gasped as Bonerous pulled himself into this realm. The fire dragon was majestic and powerful. Fear shot through everyone on the field as the dragon took flight.

There was nothing Tom could do. Tim had suspected a trick as soon as the ambush happened. Tom had gone for the Treasure, but Tim seemed to know he was there. He snatched it away and called forth Bonerous. It was over. Tom swallowed, it couldn’t be over.

“Why, Tim?” he pleaded his brother.

Tim’s voice was cold as he responded, “All I wanted was to have my own Knight, but I wasn’t good enough. They chose you! Now what does my magic mean? Nothing!”

Tom shook his head at his twin, “Tim, no. It had nothing to do with being good enough. I’m sorry they chose me and not you, but your magic doesn’t mean nothing. Look at you now. You hold the power to destroy your home in your hands right now. That’s what you’re on your way to do. You’re on your way to destroy your home. Listen to me, Tim. We can’t stop you, and we’re not going to try anymore. You’re my brother. I won’t fight you.”

The field was caught in a collective held breath as they waited for Tim’s reply. “I’m not going to destroy home,” he finally sighed out. “I don’t hate everyone enough for that. I guess you’re still family.”

“Traitor! We were supposed to lead an attack on Nelsonberg. You won’t get away with this,” the man’s words carried power. His uniform would suggest he held a pretty high rank. That made Bo giggle just a little harder when he whimpered after Tim growled through the dragon.

“Stand down and discard your weapons,” Tim ordered the army. “Then you can join the rest of your men that doubled back for some trouble back at your own home.”

So it was Andy’s doing that the army was so small, Bo thought to himself. I wonder what he did.

Part VI – Coming Home

When the group returned to Nelsonberg, they were greeted with cheers. They made their way to the hall, where the captain of the guard was waiting on them. He seemed shocked that the group had grown from two to five in a day’s time, and even more so that one of them was Tim. Still, he didn’t ask any questions. At the return of the Dragon’s Treasure, he just looked pleased and relieved.

“Well, Bo,” the Captain of the Guard spoke up, “are you ready to become a knight?”

Bo smiled, “I am.”

The Captain of the Guard looked at Tom, “Are you ready to become a knight’s wizard?”

Tom was bursting with enthusiasm, “I am. But-“

“But?” the Captain of the Guard inquired.

“I believe that Tim should gain his rightful title as well,” Tom continued, “as your wizard in training. He should be granted the guard as dragon mage.”

“So you know,” the Captain said softly. “Very well. It will all be announced at a ceremony tomorrow.”

Lindsey looked over at Bo, “So what now, Sir Bo? You’ve rescued your kingdom, now what?”

“I still haven’t got the girl,” Bo replied.

“Oh yeah?” Lindsey teased. Bo pulled Lindsey in for a kiss before she could say any more. Lindsey was glowing when they pulled apart.

“I knew it,” Lindsey Squared said in satisfaction.

The Captain of the Guard just smiled happily, “Job well done, everyone.” 
                                                                                                                                                    Charles Whaley 

Charles Whaley writes fiction and non-fiction alike with the goal of ascending to the heights of names like Lewis Carroll or Aldous Huxley. Charles believes that stories should be written every day both on and off the page; relishing the human experience of life by hiking, hitchhiking, camping and volunteering at festivals as often as possible. He edits for The Oddville Press, publishes The Adventurous Pen and is the author of Through Kaleidoscopes. 

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Publisher's Voice: Party in a cave

"Do you wanna come camping with us tonight?"

"Uh... yeah!"

Turn down an opportunity for camping? I think not! Not when I'd been trying for weeks to get a group together. Not when it was two gorgeous girls asking, either.

D and her sister, H, had flagged me down from H's white car to give me the invite. I had just started down the street, still looking sharp in the suit I had worn at an interview earlier that morning.

"So where are we camping?"

"There's this really cool cave behind a waterfall in the woods past the college. We're going to meet at the tree by the bike path at five and hike there," D explained the plan.

The tree she was talking about was down a path by the Hocking River. It grew in an arch over the path and was often a hangout for the college students to come and smoke pot. It was also the tree where D and I had first met.

As D and H were on their way wherever they had to be at the time, and I was going off for a walk, our contact was short and we bid each other adieu. Nothing was going to break my spirit now; warm weather in late winter and the prospect of spending the night beside a fire in some secluded location was all I needed to put me in a lasting, good mood.

I met up with another friend of mine to go walking with. We followed the bike path to Robbins Crossing, just past the college, and sat down at one of the tables outside some cabin. Robbins Crossing is a simulated historical village the college uses to teach life as it used to be. To my friend and I, it was just a beautiful place to relax. My friend set himself to work on a story he was developing, while I used my phone to turn on some tunes. Slow life in a fading town.

Eventually, we grew bored and decided to head back. I still had to prepare for the night ahead.

Getting ready didn't take long. I finally took off my suit in favor of some more casual attire, then rolled up my tent into my sleeping bag and fastened it to my backpack. All set. I called D to confirm the meeting location and happily set out once more.

I reached the tree a little early and decided to climb its arch to lay down while I waited.

"Chucke," I heard D call out to me.

I sat up in the tree and smiled wide. "Hey," I called back. "How have you been?"

"Good," she answered. We're actually out this way because we've got a bunch of heavy stuff to carry," she indicated the direction she was coming from.

I jumped from my perch in the tree and joined D. Her sister was further down the path, keeping an eye on the gear we were bringing along.

Once we met up with her, I sized up luggage. "Is that everything?"

"Yeah," M replied, "but it's heavier than it looks. Tent, beer, blankets. We're waiting on more people to help carry it all, if anyone else shows up."

"I bet I could get most of it. What would you like me to carry?"

"I'd feel so much better if I didn't have to haul that," D pointed to a tarp that contained the bulk of the weight, and all of the beer.

I picked up the tarp. It was heavy, but I was traveling lighter than normal and the extra weight was easy to take. I slipped my walking staff through the knot and slung the package onto my back.

"I guess we can head out, then," D announced.

The hike took us twenty or so minutes as we followed a combination of marked paths and game trails up the creek. The cave didn't go far back, but it was enough to provide some shelter. Still in late winter, the waterfall was a fractured wall of slowly melting ice. A fire pit sat in about the middle, while the walls of the cave had been graffitied with charcoal etchings. I was excited to be here.

We dropped the load we had been carrying and went to work setting up camp. My tent went up quick and easy. D and H didn't take much longer with theirs.

Once camp was ready, D piled the wood that was present into the fire pit and I got it started. Finally, we could all relax and open a beer.

My first beer gone, I figured I may as well gather some more firewood before night fell. I took off into the woods, rejuvenated and full of energy. After I had returned with the second bundle, we decided it was time to take a "safety" break and sent a bowl around.

To be honest, I kind of fancied D. Sitting beside the fire, I decided it was a perfect time to try and impress her. I recited my poem Breathless Whisper for her and her sister.

I'm just a breathless whisper

beneath the star-lit sky.

A simple spark of magic,

the feeling you could fly.

Wild through the woords, we ran;

living silver dreams,

laughing at the world,

and how siliy that it seems.

Carelessly, but passionate; 

spirited and free,

thinking of the future,

planning who we'll be.

Carried to another realm,

where everything is right,

to sit beside the fire,

all nestled in moonlight.

Both of them loved it. D even began to sing a song she wrote while I tended the fire. Her voice was lovely.

Darkness had descended and we saw someone with a flashlight approaching. We all let out howls and wild shouts at the newcomer's arrival. Suddenly, there was more beer and herb. Another bowl went around. 

Eventually, the newcomer's roommate arrived. Another group of campers later stopped by for a brief visit, as well. We drank and we smoked and reveled in the light of the fire until night became early morning. A "pow wow" in the tent turned into a cuddle puddle, and finally we got some sleep - my tent entirely unused.

Around six, D woke up and asked me for a lighter to get the fire going again. I joined shortly after deciding I wasn't getting any more sleep. 

The sunrise was beautiful and reflected off the cave walls with magnificent radiance. Once it was light enough, I gathered some more wood for the morning fire. A final bowl went around as we settled into the new day.

At last, we had to go. We took down camp and let out some final howls as we hiked our way back to civilization.

---

Charles Whaley 

Charles Whaley writes fiction and non-fiction alike with the goal of ascending to the heights of names like Lewis Carroll or Aldous Huxley. Charles believes that stories should be written every day both on and off the page; relishing the human experience of life by hiking, hitchhiking, camping and volunteering at festivals as often as possible. He edits for The Oddville Press, publishes The Adventurous Pen and is the author of Through Kaleidoscopes. 

Want to see your work here? Check out our Submission Guidelines