Story
Alright! I'm posting 2 the first two chapters of a story I'm trying to write...Tell me what you think :-)
THE STRONGHOLD
BOOK 1 OF THE EXILED
Chapter 1
The remaining dark hues of sunset finally receded and one by one the stars appeared as darkness began to spread across the horizon. Slowly the stars decorated the heavens, softly glistening in the night sky and the moon began its slow assent from the east . Nearby a Nightwing, perched on a Pingui tree, sang its usual song calling to others near and far wishing them a good night. The leaves rustled in response to the trainquil breeze. All was clear, calm and beautiful.
Nathaniel gazed up in wonder. He breathed in, filling his lungs with fresh air and sighed. He seldom had a chance to sit and enjoy the end of each day but today he needed to be alone and slow his thoughts. The hill, where he now sat leaning against a tree, had the best view of the Hiridonian plains. He would come to this place to get away from all the hardships at home. He repositioned himself against the tree, relaxed and enjoyed the evening.
How quickly this day came and went. He thought to himself. He had worked hard and much was fulfilled. He thanked Herath for a bountiful season. The seasonal planting yielded an abundance of crops and fruit which would more than take care of his little family when the long and harsh winters settled upon the Hiridonian plains. It took most of the day for Nathaniel and his younger sister Asa to gather all that they would need. The rest of the week would be spent readying their home for the winter. Unfortunately the region where his village was situated lacked dense forests to protect them from the winters’ fierce wind so Nathaniel had to work twice as hard to keep their home fortified. (Talk about stone quarries in the paragraph above)
Nathaniel tried to empty his mind and sat for some time, content to stare and admire the vast plains. Up on this hill Nathaniel surveyed a serene landscape. Stretching before him the endless plains were aglow in the moonlight. The Yakari blossoms dotted the landscape as far as the eye could see. The Yakari blossomed only at night when the moon shone on them. Silkflies would then come out in swarms for they were drawn to the soft glow which emanated from the blossoms.
Above him, a large expanse of wings took flight in the night sky. A Harad owl soared and circled the night sky hunting for prey. As Nathaniel was taking in his surroundings he realized his anxiety had left him and he thanked Herath for it. The tranquil scene was a balm for his soul.
. The constant going eventually wore on him. However this was naturally a busy season but so much was placed on his shoulders as he was the last remaining man in his household. His father had died some time ago and, as their laws stated, next of kin was to care for the needs of his family. Nathaniel therefore assumed role as Father, Brother and Son. Not that he minded, he loved his mother and sister but is was worrisome to say the least. If anything happened to him his sister and mother would have to depend on the kindness of their village to care for them. He didn’t want that but it was not within his power to decide when it would be time to leave their world. Lord Herath took their father because that was according to his design. Their loss was difficult to bear but Herath looked after them with loving kindness and provided their needs and eventually healed their hearts.
Nathaniel rose, with great reluctance, and began to make his way back home when he stopped suddenly. He didn’t understand why but he had a distinct feeling he would not see this place again. His gaze swept over the landscape one last time then walked down the familiar trail leading to his abode.
The moon shone through the trees and it’s pale light reflected off the leaves. The foliage around him would lose their dark green and soon wear the vibrant autumn colors of red, orange, and yellow. Unfortunately Autumn was brief and the long precedented winters would come upon them and the trees would be devoid of color and stand bare until next spring.
As he drew closer to his home, he could hear his mother calling for Asa. By her tone Nathaniel knew Asa had forgotten her chores. He chuckled. Oh Asa. That girl could drive both him and his mother mad. He could probably guess that Asa’s nose was in a book and she had forgotten to help mother in some way. Asa didn’t belong here . She craved knowledge and dreaded her chores. She did what she was told of course but with great reluctance. She wanted more than her simple life and he didn’t know how to give her that. Unless she learned from the elders in their village however they would not teach women. Their “role” was to care for the household and Asa would not be able to assume that role that much he knew. She wasn’t built for that kind of life. Well, he still needed her to help him prepare for the Harvest Festival which was being held in the Elder City, a two day ride from his own.
The path Nathaniel traveled soon faded and left him standing before his farm. The farm consisted of maize, wheat, barley, oats and flax. Since the crop was ready to harvest Nathaniel spent days cutting the crops, bundling the stalks into sheaves and left them to dry in the field. Today’s task was to take the sheaves into the barn, lay them out on the floor and beat them with a flail to pound out the seed grain. He enlisted his sister’s help and she enjoyed her work and pounded the sheaves enthusiastically. Anything was better than her learning to sew.
He finally saw his home and a few yards away stood their barn. As he was walking he saw a little figure running straight for him.
“Nathan!” Asa shouted. She halted abruptly almost knocking into him. He was laughing as he steadied her.
“Where have you been? Momma’s quite annoyed that you were gone so long and I had to have supper with Coran instead of you.” She glared at him.
“Mother knows I like to go off on my own Asa. I have every right to enjoy some peace and quiet.” He tugged her golden hair gently and walked with her toward their home.
“So, where did you go?” She asked.
“None of your business.” He responded bluntly.
She made a sound of annoyance. Asa hated not knowing anything and was too curious for her own good.
“So Coran is here eh? Is there some food left or did he consume everything in sight?”
“No, momma was smart to save you a dish or else he would have.” She giggled, grabbed her brother’s hand and pulled him into the house.
(Expand more here)
Chapter 2
“I found him!” Asa exclaimed with glee.
Nathaniel entered a large room and before him was his best friend Coran sitting at the wooden table helping himself to more food. His mother stood before the hearth where she scooped broth out of an iron cauldron and into a simple wooden bowl. She wore her usual; white blouse, tan skirt and an apron tied around her waist. Her blonde hair plaited back.
“Sit down Nathan.” She said without turning.
Nathan did as he was told. He seated himself next to his friend who smiled at him with a mouth full of food. Nathaniel shook his head and laughed. His mother handed him a bowl of steaming garlic broth with cut up chicken and a plate of seasoned bread. Asa then sat down next to Nathaniel and finally mother. For a few moments everyone ate in companionable silence.
Nathaniel gazed at the familiar environment. The decor of the main room consisted of tapestries and stone work which were aglow in candlelight. His mother had a way of creating a warm and charming atmosphere. Using various ingredients, the numerous candles situated all around the room gave off a lovely scent. For Nathaniel, the fragrance always triggered a feeling of nostalgia. This room in particular beckoned him after a long day of arduous work.
Many people in the village sought his mother for she was a renowned seamstress and candle maker. She fashioned elegant dresses for special occasions and practical, durable cothes for each day of work. She had the help of her gemstone which hung from her neck. Gemstones were growing more common as every family in their village possessed enough to pass down to each of their children, as was tradition. Gemstones enhanced one’s talents. With the help of her gemstone, his mother was able to create various things almost to perfection.
Nathaniel’s was in the form of a ring and was very young when he received it. It had once belonged to his father and when he passed away his mother thought it appropriate to bequeath it to Nathaniel. The stone itself was a deep burgundy and it enhanced his talent of making things grow and to remain level headed in dire circumstances. When Asa reached her fifteenth year then she would receive hers.
She was eager for her gemstone she hoped it would enhance her knowledge of books as mother hoped it would help her with something more constructive.
Asa’s voice brought Nathaniel out of his reverie. Mother and Corren were staring, expecting him to respond.
“I’m sorry Asa, I wasn’t paying attention.”
Asa sighed, “I asked if you were nervous about the Elder’s trial.”
It was Nathaniel’s turn to sigh. Of course he was nervous but for reasons he would dare not repeat in front of his younger sister. His mother came to his rescue when he wasn’t forthright.
“Asa help me with the dishes please, and don’t badger your brother.”
“I’m not badgering.” She grumbled.
Corran, finished eating, spoke to his sister. “Don’t worry Asa, he’ll be fine. Oh and after we are all cleaned up I have a surprise for you.”
Asa smiled and hopped up to help her mother finish cleaning up the meal. Nathaniel, also finished, got up and added more wood to the fire and settled himself comfortably in one of the chairs. Corran joined him and they talked about their work. Nathaniel hadn’t a chance to go into town that week so he asked his friend to inform him on what had taken place in his absence. Corran explained that everyone was eager for the festival and preparations were almost complete. The people were also eager for the outcome of Nathaniel’s trial. Corran smiled encouragingly but Nathaniel groaned. His friend caught the expression on his face and dropped the subject. He was sure he wanted to speak to Nathaniel further when they had a private moment.
Once Mother and Asa were finished, Corran retrieved a parcel from his jacket and handed it to Asa. Mother sat in an adjacent chair smiling at Corran and her daughter. Asa unwrapped her gift with fervor. It was a book. Mother grimaced and Asa squealed in delight.
“Corran, do you realize what you’ve done?” Mother asked in a serious tone.
“Yes I do, Asa open the book.” Corran replied a mischevious look in his eyes.
Asa looked down at the book cradled in her hands. She was holding the book as though it were precious. She turned over the cover and cried out in disgust.
“The Great Hiridonian seamstresses..what is this?!”
“A book to teach you how to be a seamstress!” Corran replied with a wry smile. “You can help your mother more. All young girls must learn how to cook and sew and be able to run a household. Asa that’s what you need to learn as you grow up.” Corran lectured.
Asa glared at him and threw the book at Corran, hitting him square in the face. Mother gasped and Nathaniel laughed. That’s what you get my friend. Asa can be beastly at times especially when she’s been deceived. She also hates condescension. She learned that from one of her books and had once told her Mother she didn’t appreciate her condescension. Mother boxed her ears.
Distressed and angered Asa fled the room. Mother apologized to Corran before going after her daughter. Corran chuckled while rubbing his forehead where the book hit him. Nathan seized the opportunity to speak with his friend. He grabbed Corran by his shirt and hauled him out of the house. Corran staggered a bit, then after regaining his balance took a swing at Nathaniel’s shoulder. It was a playful blow but it sent Nathaniel flying backward. Corran was now doubled over almost hysterical, and Nathaniel ran at him and tackled him onto the ground. His friend, shocked that he was on the ground had another round of laughter. Nathaniel joined his friends’ merriment and helped him to his feet.
“Asa will be in a snit for awhile.” Corran spoke breathlessly.
“You know my sister well enough, give her a shiny trinket and you’ll be back in her good graces.” Nathaniel chuckled.
“I’ll be honest, that was very humorous. I didn’t realize how much I needed it so thank you. I would pay you to come round more often and see my sister hurl objects at your face.” Nathaniel said with a smile.
“I know it’s hard to believe but I didn’t come here for your own amusement. I’ve been wanting to speak with you for some time.” Corran sobered immediately. All traces of humor now gone. He stood erect before Nathaniel as though he were his commanding officer.
Nathaniel regarded his friend and saw more than just his stern facade. To his great surprise he saw a flicker of fear in Corran’s eyes. He did his utmost to conceal his emotions. He was apart of their small militia and they were taught to master every feeling. Around Nathaniel Corran was all ease and comfort but he was also a dedicated soldier. He was disciplined and dangerous. He would never think twice in defending his honor and those he loved.
“Willim, during one of his hunting forrays, found some tracks he didn’t recognize. He tried to follow them to its source, which was why he was gone longer than usual.”
Nathaniel remembered Willim’s return and saw that he was tired and grim. Nathaniel hadn’t the chance to speak with him about his trip however Willim didn’t seem too eager to speak of his travels and discoveries.
“I remember Willim’s return...I sensed something not right with him.” Nathaniel replied finally.
“Yes, he had wanted to speak with you afterward but you’ve been away for days.” Corran, who never questions Nathaniel about his comings and goings, couldn’t hide his curiosity. Nathaniel’s stomach clenched. Everyone knew he was always in the village seeing to it’s needs. He knew he had to go back eventually or more people would question his absence.
“Willim was following the trail as best he could. It lead him north and he knew he was out of his familiar territory. But nothing came from it, the trail ended rather abruptly. He was confused and fatigued. There was more to the story but he rather speak with you about it.” He finished then, relaxed, waiting for Nathaniel to speak. Obviously he was puzzled by his behavior.
Nathaniel sighed. He had wanted to explain himself to his friend but now that the opportunity had finally presented itself he found it extremely difficult to confide in his friend. However he couldn’t let fear turn him into a coward. So he began his tale with trepidation.
“Nathan what’s wrong?.” Corran was alarmed.for he sensed his distress.
“Obviously your wondering why I haven’t frequented the village. Well it’s not a lie that I have been extremely busy with my preparations for the upcoming festival and constructing fortifications on my home which has occupied most of my time. But to say that’s all my reasoning for my absence would be dishonest.”
Nathaniel paused before continuing.
“Go on.” Corran prompted.
“You know Rys’ wife Hannah? A fortnight ago she came to our household asking for my mother. I told her she was paying a visit at the Mord household and I asked if there was anything I could help her with. She thought for a moment and then smiled. ‘Unless you can help me embroider a gown.’ I laughed at that and said unfortunately my knowledge lies in making things grow. She laughed then bade me good day. She arrived again the following day and found my mother. The two of them started working together on dresses for her sisters and uniforms for the militia. You know how my mother is, she doesn’t do the work for anyone but teaches girls how to embroider and sew for themselves. Hannah was very enthusiastic and came over frequently with new projects. However, before she would begin her tutelage with my mother she would come and find me either to deliver messages or just gossip a little about the village. At first it was all innocence but our conversations became more involved as time went on. I enjoyed and looked forward to our discussions whether trivial or consequential. One particular day she found me on one of my walks. She was distressed. I offered to walk with her up the hill I usually visit. She opened up and told me how her family arranged for her to marry Rys. She tried but she could not fall in love with him. She told me a great many things and I took pity on her. I realized I was infatuated with her and longed for her visits. It broke the monotony of my life and she desired my attention. She started weeping and I only wanted to comfort her.”
Corran waited holding his breath. He stared at Nathan intensely which made him uncomfortable.
“She kissed me and I tried to stop but my loneliness and desire for her overrode all rational thought. We made love there on top of the hill.” He finished with a heavy heart.
Nathaniel sat down on the ground. He put his head in his hands. Well now he knows. Nathaniel was aware of the sound of Chicadas chirping happily. Nature was unaware of man’s trivial problems.
“Nathan...” His friend sighed and sad down next to him. When Nathaniel gazed up at his friend he saw understanding and pity not condemnation in his friends eyes.
“I’m sorry Corran but that’s the truth. I’ve been away because I can’t see her again. If I do our tryst will continue and it won’t be long till the village will be aware of it. I’ve been worried about the Elder Trials. What if I have to confess this sin to them? Will they forbid me in becoming Village Reeve if I do confess willfully? I can’t bear the thought of this tainting my name and any who are associated with me. Even still, I love our people Corran. I would do anything for them. If I can deliver them justice and equality I’d do it. If I could provide their every need and want I would. But since that day I’ve been too ashamed to face them.” It seemed to Nathaniel a long time before his friend spoke.
“Nathan listen to me. You are my best friend and you have stood by me for as long as I can remember. You believed in me when no one else could care less for me , even my own father. You saw potential in me not waste. I have risen in the ranks of our militia in this village because of your influence, encouragement and your belief that there was something good inside of me. I have seen you help families in times of famine and fruitful seasons. Our people trust you implicitly because you have listened to their complaints and brought about justice.” Nathaniel was ready to reply but was cut off with a curt gesture.
“I’m not finished. You need of a friend and now I’m going to stand with you. Whether your name is tainted or not you have more than my friendship, you have my loyalty. Face the Elder Trials Nathan. The gravest mistake would be to run and let your fear overwhelm you. Don’t give up now. Everyone fails at one point or another however you can master your fear and move on or live in cowardess. You alone can make that decision.”