Forgotten Guardians

Miranda sat on the porch as the moon rose in the sky, thinking about the day’s events, staring at the stars as if they held the answers to her questions. She didn’t want to live as some poor farm girl, only to marry someone who would stay here and turn dirt. Her life would be nothing more than making babies and cooking food until she was laid in the ground from old age or was raped and killed by Stone soldiers. She wanted a life of her own. She wanted to see what else was out there other than a life as a slave to the Stone Emperor. At least she wanted an adventure in her life before she was forced to settle down with some brute ox of a man who would probably treat her like livestock. She already knew many girls her age who were married or were being courted by men in the countryside. The men of her age didn’t know how to treat a woman. They saw women only as the mother of their children. She knew her mother got a rare find when she married her father, but she also knew she would not be so lucky since most of the people in her village thought she was demon touched because of her visions. Most boys would not even look at her when she passed by. She didn’t think she was ugly; she was fit and always kept her hair clean and combed, she had straight white teeth, nice breasts, at least she thought, and her Da always told her that her almond eyes could steal a man’s heart. Still no one would accept her due to her visions. She almost wanted to cry, but then there was Josan, who saved her and was even impressed when she told him about her visions. He was the only real person, other than her family, who had really talked to her. In his eyes she was not a freak or a silver eyed demon, she was just another person.

Miranda’s face flushed as she thought of Josan. He was tall and, from what she seen of his face, very handsome. Miranda thought of how Josan always had his eyes covered. There was a secret there she knew it. Maybe he was scarred or disfigured in some way. She was so lost in thinking Miranda didn’t even notice her grandma standing next to her until she spoke.

“Asking the stars for answers? Many a night I’ve sat here asking them myself, but they never answer,” she said in a knowing voice. “You wish to go off into the world find your own life,” she said with a small smile.

“What should I do? I don’t want to leave the family, but I do need something more to live for than just birthing children.”

“I know, dear, I was like you when I was your age, but I can’t answer your question any better than the stars can. You must look inside your own heart to find that answer.” Patting Miranda’s hand and shuffling off to bed.

Miranda sat there for a few minutes then decided what she would do. She could never leave her family, but at least she could have a small adventure while Josan was still in town. She would go find him, and show him around the city and come back when he left. It was nothing big, but at least she could have something to look back on, to tell herself she took the chance. She went into the house and grabbed her pack and her father’s cloak, knowing better than to go into the city at night dressed like a woman. She silently walked into the kitchen and picked up her Da’s dagger. She would not go out alone without some way of protecting herself. She strapped it onto her belt and took a deep breath to steady herself and silently snuck out the front door. Josan had a good hour lead but she new a short cut though the woods which would take half the time. She took one last look back at the house and whispered “I’ll be back soon,” then started off running into the darkness of the forest. Little did she know that her whisper had not fallen on deaf ears.

Granny sat at the window watching her granddaughter disappear into the woods, whispering her own silent prayer to the Light for Miranda’s safety, “Be safe and come back to us.”

Well into the night, Josan had reached the edge of the city. Even in the dead of the night the place was still bustling with people; but Josan knew what type of people were out at this time of night. He looked down at Wolf and nodded towards the woods; the large animal turned and ran off into the forest. Josan did not want to take him into the city for fear of bringing trouble. Many farmers would try to kill Wolf thinking that he would go after their livestock and still others would want his pelt for trading. His friend would find him when he left the city. After Josan knew Wolf was deep in the woods he walked towards the gate. He walked past a couple of guards who were more concerned with their dice game than keeping watch. He strolled down the avenue and headed towards the rough part of town to meet his informant. He wanted this over quickly; too many Stone guards roamed about. If any of them found out he was the one who had assaulted three of their men, he would be gravely outnumbered. Walking throuh the rubbish filled streets, he finally saw the tavern and quickened his step. He walked inside and sat at an open table to the side of the room. He scanned the room to access his surroundings. He found the usual, drunken thugs and youths ready to prove themselves, leaning on one another and drinking their courage. From the look of them, they had been drinking down courage for the past couple of hours. A few small fights broke out but were quickly broken up by the rest of the patrons. The barmaid staggered over to his table. She stunk of booze and sweaty men and the look in her eyes told Josan that this woman lost her innocence and her life long ago.

“What can I get you handsom?” She slurred.

“Hot tea,” Josan said abruptly.

“Tea? You sure you don’t want some mead?” she said with a missing tooth smile.

“Just tea, thank you,” said Josan

“Alright, hon.” She said as she walked off.

As the barmaid strolled to another table, Josan noticed a group of men at the bar staring at him, witht the look of more brawn than brains. They looked like usual city thugs, with gritty hands and ragged clothes. The biggest man with a shaved head and a jagged scar over his left eye, leered at Josan hungrily. The group eyed Josan for awhile and mumbled to themselves. The barmaid came back with his tea as Josan sat there waiting for his informant.

Miranda ran through the woods almost blind; the moon barely penetrated the thick forest canopy, but she knew her way around this forest well enough to know where to step. She was only about twenty minutes away from the city when she felt as if something was watching her. Shadows darted back and forth in front of her playing in the moonlight. She ignored her fears, knowing it must be her imagination playing tricks on her. Suddenly her foot struck a tree root, loosing her balance she fell solidly to the forest floor. She pushed herself up and regained her breath, cursing at herself for not paying attention, when, suddenly she did hear something. A low growl coming from the path ahead caught her attention. Two glowing yellow orbs pieced the darkness. Miranda noticed more sounds all around her, fear froze her limbs. The creature in front of her skulked into the moonlight. It was a “shadow hound,” an unnatural creature that looked like a large dog but with enormous teeth and a line of spiked bones protruding from its back bones. It’s ragged fur shimmered like living darkness. They were vicious creatures which would kill anything they came upon. From what Miranda could figure from the rustling and the sets of eyes staring hungrily at her, there were about four of them. She told herself not to panic and slowly started to get her foot free from the root. In an instant the one in front lunged at her, and terror struck into her whole body as she saw huge fangs coming toward her. A silver blur streaked across her vision collioding with the shadow hound, sending both hurdling into the brush. She heard a yelp then a snapping noise. Wolf stormed out of the brush toward the three remaining shadow hounds with bloody fangs ready. He leaped over Miranda onto another one and dug his fangs in deeply, ripping the shadow hound’s fur and fresh. One of the hounds ignored Wolf and leaped for Miranda, fangs aimed right for her throat. Without even thinking she reached down, pulled out her father’s dagger and lunged forward with both hands on the hilt. Thw wieght of the creature slammed into her, boring her to the ground. The next thing she saw was the shadow hound lying limply on top of her with the dagger firmly implanted under the chin of the horrible beast. Straining her arms she pushed the beast to the side. Miranda rolled over to the side and looked around. Wolf was still on top of the third hound and fighting fiercely. She saw the fourth shadow hound running to help his companion. The hound found Wolf’s right flank and bit down with wicked teeth, but Wolf would not let go of the other’s neck. Blood ran freely down Wolf’s back leg. Miranda had to do something. She wiggled her foot free and picked up a fallen tree branch. Racing to her out numbered savior, she tensed her muscles and swung the branch with all her strength bringing it down on the shadow hound’s neck. A loud crack echeoed though woods. Miranda looked down at the shadow hound lying very still with its head in an odd shaped position.

Wolf limped over to her after he had finished with the last shadow hound. Even before he reached her she ran over to him, knelt down and wrapped her arms around his neck.

“Thank you, I guess this is becoming yours job getting me out of trouble,” she said with a slight chuckle. Wolf responded rubing his head on her shoulder. Miranda ran a hand down his back and felt the sticky wetness from the wicked wound he received from the shadow hound. She moved him around and saw the caked blood on his shiny fur. Quickly she reached into her pack and took out a spare tunic and her water skin. She cleaned the wound as best as she could and tried to bandage the cuts in the dim light.

“It should stop the bleeding, but you need a proper bandage on it. “Miranda said.

Wolf just sat there staring at her with his crystal blue eyes not responding, but she knew he understood her.

“Do you know where Josan is?” Miranda asked.

Wolf’s ears perked forward at the name. Slowly he stood and started walking down the path and stopped and turned to her, beckoning her to follow. Miranda quickly grabbed her things and removed her father’s dagger from the dead hound. Wiping it on her cloak, she started off with Wolf.

Josan was starting to get impatient. He had waited half the night for this man to arrive. Finally, he decided he had had enough and started to rise from his seat, when a man who had been at the far side of the bar walked up to him. He was thin and weak boned with a pocked face. He smelled as if he had been sleeping in the gutter.

“Please, sir, do not leave just yet,” the thin man said.

Josan looked at him with a confused scowl and asked, “Are you the informant? I’ve been waiting all night.”

“Please forgive sir, I meant no disrespect. One in my shoes must watch carefully who they talk to,” the man said with a yellow toothed grin.

They sat back down and waited in silence for a moment. Josan knew this type; the dirty clothes and ragged hair were only a ruse. This man was cunning and slippery, always having a way out of a situation with a quick tongue. He made his living playing both sides of the battle field. Josan slipped a gold crown on the table.

“Ooh, it will cost you more than that for what you want to know,” the man said with a sideways smile.

Josan slid three more coins onto the table. The man started to reach for the coins, but just as his gnarly fingers closed around the coins, Josan grabbed his wrist and pressed down on a nerve point. The man let out a small squeak of pain, “First the information.” Josan growled, as he released the man’s hand.

“A man came into town about two months ago, with fine swords with strange markings on it. He was an arrogant bloke; even beat the tavern champ to a pulp. Said something about going north.” the man said as he nursed his wrist.

“Where up north?” Josan growled

“I truly don’t know,” the man said as he and started to reach for the coins again.

Josan grabbed his wrist again this time pushing back the man’s thumb, “Where?” he spoke through gritted teeth.

“I don’t know, I swear,” the man squealed as he felt is thumb starting to crack.

Josan released the man and sat back in his chair. The informant slowly reached for the pile of coins, eyeing Josan nervously. He snatched up his money and quickly scurried out of the tavern. Josan sat there thinking about where his adversay would go up north and why. There was not much there except for mountains and snow.

Miranda and Wolf quickly made there way to the edge of the city. Even with Wolf’s bad leg, they had made good time. She pulled up her hood and tied her cloak tight, making sure her dagger was easy to get to. She looked down to Wolf and he casually started towards the tree line, as if he had read her mind. She took a deep help steady herself. She had never been to the city alone before and never at night. The area she was in was unfamiliar, but circling around the city had led her to a gate in the tavern and merchant section of the town. Josan had to be somewhere nearby she knew, but she had never entered the slums of the city, which were very hazardous for a little farm girl who didn’t know any better. She shook away her fears and strolled through the gate. The guards were half drunk and asleep as she passed them. Walking through the narrow alleyways she tried to find some clue to lead her to Josan’s whereabouts. She asked a few hawkers as bellowed their wares up an down the street, but none had seen the man she was looking for. She always kept her dagger near just in case, but most people just ignored her, not knowing she was a woman. Then she saw a man rushing out of a tavern holding his wrist. She walked up to the door and poked her head in. She scanned the room but mostly saw drunken thugs and louts fallen on one another. Then she spotted Josan. He was sitting alone by the wall. She rushed over and sat down across from him.

“What are doing here?” Josan hissed under his breath after the shock of seeing Miranda had faded.

“Looking for you,” Miranda snapped back.

“Why?” Josan replied sarcastically.

“Thought you could use a guide through the city. My Da brings me here all the time,” she lied; she had only been in the city a handful of times and never out of the farming district.

“Thank you, but I don’t need a guide,” Josan said, trying to sound calm.

Just then the group at the bar who had been eyeing Josan all night started towards them, the big man in front. They swaggered and stumbled over to the table, the leader standing at the head in between Josan and Miranda. He leaned over and placed his stubby paws on the table.

“I never seen you here before, or you,” the fat man said with a sneer on his face.

“We’re just passing through, we‘ll be going now,” Josan said.

“Well, you didn’t pay the toll for coming into our bar,” the man said with a smirk. Then he looked more intently at Josan, “What’s with the hood, you ugly underneath there?” he turned to Miranda, “and you what’s wrong with your face?” he reached up, “Let’s see freak,” and pulled off Miranda’s hood.

“Well...well, look what we got here, you’re a pretty one. Maybe I’ll let you work your payment off,” he said as he moved his face closer to her grabbing her arm. “Come on, honey, don’t you want to be with a real man?”

“Let her go. Now,” Josan said in a tone which made everyone blood run cold.

The man looked around at his support and said “Or what, freak?”

At that instant Josan reached up and grabbed the man’s collar, pulling the man’s face right down into the table with a loud crack. He fell to the floor, covering his bloody face. Josan stood up and looked at the men behind him. “Kill that nurfer,” the big man yelled through the blood collecting in his mouth.

At the prompting of their leader, the four men on Josan’s side rushed toward him. Some quick blows and a few accurate kicks sent them tumbling to the floor. But more men from the bar wanted a piece of the action and started advancing toward Josan. At the other side of the table the three other men thought they could easily take the woman, but Miranda was ready for them.

One of the men slung his arm around her neck and tried to pull her out of her chair, and another grabbed her one of her arms. With her free arm she pulled her dagger free and swung her arm in a wide arc behind her, connecting with the man’s thigh, who was holding her other arm. She twisted the blade and pulled it out; the man fell instantly to the floor with blood flowing out of his wound. She placed her feet on the table edge and pushed herself back, forcing her chair to tip on the other man behind her. They came crashing down with Miranda on top; she quickly rolled off the man and came to her feet, kicking him the face in the process. The third man rushed forwad; Miranda spun around, swung her arm up between the man legs and pounded the dagger hilt into the man’s groin. He fell silently to the floor with his jar hanging wide open.

Josan gave a quick look back to see how Miranda was doing; to his surprise, she was doing quite well. Three men had fallen to her in only a matter of minutes. What else was this young lady capable of, he thought. He quickly brought his mind back to what was happening. Now a large crowd of drunken men were standing before him, most of them wielding small knives or daggers. Josan thought, if they get to play with knives, so do I. In a flash Josan brought out his two exquisite swords. The crowd gasped, thinking it was some kind of magic; none of them even saw him draw his swords. Josan started a fancy display of swordsmanship, not really trying to fight but hoping that most of them would lose their thirst for a battle and walk away. His swords were nothing but blurs to the naked eye; men stepped back desperately not wanting to get too close to the deadly blades.

The big man Josan had first knocked down staggered to get up and pulled a dagger from his boot. He was right behind Josan now, ready to strike, when he felt a crashing thud on his back. He toppled forward colliding with with the hooded figure in frn of him. Josan shrugged off the unconouis man as if he was a mere fly. Josan heard the crowd gasp as the man fell pulling his hood down in the process. He turned around to see Miranda holding what looked like it the remnents of a chair. When he saw her face turn into terrorfied shock, he knew wht she was looking at.

Miranda stood there shocked and confused. In front of her stood a man with irises as silver as the full moon. He stood there staring at her with those eyes, eyes which pulsed with demonic power. She could not find the words; her mind was a jumble of thoughts and emotions. She had been taught only netherworld creatures and evil denizens had silver eyes.

“DEMON!” one of the drunken men yelled. Suddenly all the men were back to their fighting stance, thinking they had rightgnous on their side, which only gave them more courage to charge.

“Kill it, or it will devour everyone!” Someone yelled as the mob started to rush toward Josan.

Josan knew that he could not winwithout shreding blood; there was only one chance. He pulled his hood up and sheathed his swords. Josan reached into cloak, pulling out a small clay sphere. As the men closed the distance Josan threw the clay ball onto the ground shattering it. Pure bright light engulfed the entire room. The men stumbled and fell to the floor covering their blinded eyes. Without wasting time Josan used the distraction to his advantage. He grabbed Miranda’s arm and headed for the exit. Still blinded by the light, she had no idea what was going on.

They pushed through the front door to the narrow alley. Already a large crowd had gathered to discover the source of the strange light which had engulfed the building. Quickly Josan scanned the area for an escape route while the people stood dumbfounded by the spectacle. A man Josan had knocked to floor early in the fight staggered out the front door of the tavern, seemingly not affected by the burst of light. He pointed at Josan and yelled “DEMON!” The mass of people turned their gaze from the choas of the tavern to the dark figure holding a woman by the arm. Snarls and curses started up as the mob started to advance towards him. Josan knew he was in bad positon.

“Time to go,” Josan said as he clutched Miranda’s arm. She was still shaking the spots from her eyes as they started off down a alley way. As they ran through the whinedy alleys she wondered about the man next to her. She was brought up to believe only demons had silver eyes, but how could Josan be a demon? She admitted she had only met him that day and knew almost nothing of his past, but was he a demon? If so why did he save her? Ever since she had met him, he had been nothing but nice to her, the only person who was not afraid her. Many people called her a demon, so what gave her the right to judge him? He saved her from the soldiers, saved her ma, and even rescued her from the tavern. Who was she to judge him?

For many moments they raced down the bum infested alleys, many times backtracking to avoid the mob. Josan was very good at keeping to the shadows and slipping behind the mob to confuse them. Soon the angry mob was running in circles, giving Josan and Miranda a chance to escape. They ran out the same gate Miranda had come through. The guards were still in their drunken slumber when they passed by without protest. As soon as they were through the gate they headed for the woods. Miranda led them to the same path she had used earlier and started for her home. They ran through the darkened forest with only faint moonlight to lead them. Miranda could barely see where she was going, but Josan kept a tight hand on her. He could see perfectly in the dark, an ability due to his unusual eyes. They ran as fast as their legs would carry them through the ever bending forest path. Miranda thought about the shadow hounds she fought early that night. Her eyes darted back and forth along the path looking for any signs of more lurking about. Suddenly something leaped from the bushes onto the path. The moonlight shimmered off silver fur revealing their mysteruois newcomer. Miranda took a deep breath to still her nerves as she used Wolf’s shiny fur to help guide her. Soon they came upon the bluff which over looked the vallay where she lived. They stopped, breathing heavily and holding their sides asthey tried to regain their breath. Miranda sat down on a fallen log and gazed out over the countryside. Wolf came over and placed is head in her lap as she wonderd about all that had happened o her tha day. Josan stood a few feet away, listening to see if they were being followed. Satified they were not followed, he looked over at Wolf and Miranda. He was surprised to see Wolf sitting next her with his head in her lap. Never had Wolf warmed to someone so quickly. Miranda was brought out of her trance when she felt something wet and slick on Wolf’s fur. Then she remembered the wound he had taken from the shadow hound. She knelt down to inspect the injury; she cleaned it again and took the time to bandage properly so the wound would not re-open. She looked up to see Josan looking into the woods, rigid and unmoving like the tree surrounding them. How many times had something liked this happened to him just because of the color of his eyes. At least she could hide her visions from people but Josan could never hide who he was.

Josan turned around suddenly and looked over the landscape. He smelled smoke, a lot of smoke. Scanning the valley he found the source. He pointed to the smoke and said, “Where’s that?”

Miranda looked up and followed his finger to see what he was pointing at. Her heart jumped into her throat as she struggled with the scene before her. “MY HOME,” she finally screamed in horror.

They quickly rushed down the bluff and sprinted toward the burning farm house, Miranda fearing for her family pushed her sore muslces to their limit. She ignored the burning sensation in her chest and the cramps in her legs. All she knew was that she had to get to her parents. She rushed past Josan keeping pace with Wolf.

They reached the yard and saw the whole house was ablaze. A small group of neighboring farmers stood and watched with terror as the farm house burned. Then Miranda saw the reason behind her burning house: ten Stone soldiers stood in a semicircle keeping the farm people from helping their burning kin. A man in the middle of the soldiers wore fine armor and a long feather helmet. It was the magistrate, standing proudly as he spoke, “Let you all see what happens when you assault the Empire’s men,” as he pointed to three bandaged men on his side. It was the same three men who had attacked Miranda and had been knocked unconscious. Boiling rage erupted in her; she pulled out her dagger and charged toward the soldiers. Josan burst through the tree line and saw immediately the cause of the fire. Not even slowing down he drew both of his swords and followed Miranda as she charged head long into the fray. Wolf did not miss his cue and rushed in after Miranda as well. Josan came in like a thunderstorm; the first three soldiers did not even get a chance to reach for their swords before they were cut down in his path. Three more came at him with blades drawn, but Josan circled in front of them and with three strikes faling each man.

Miranda rushed in, with hatred burning in her eyes, towards the Stone soldiers. This was no woman attacking, this was a creature of primal rage. Two of the soliders from earlier that day turned and recgnized her immeditily as evil grins spread over their faces. They ran towards her not even drawing their swords, “We’ll teach you a little respect nurfee...” one of the soldiers said. The man never finished his senescence.

Miranda’s fist connected with his jaw and sent him flying to the ground. The second soldier came in from the side with his arms out wide ready to grappel her. At the last moment, she ducked under his arm and drove her dagger straight into his heart. The soldier flew over Miranda with his momentum and hit the ground limply. She quickly pivoted on her heels as the first solider was getting to his feet. Franticaly Miranda lookedaround for a weapon of some type, spotting the short sword on the body of the first solider she killed. She drew it from his dead body and rushed over to the staggering soldier. Thrusting with all her might, she drove the sword deep into his chest before he even noticed her. Pain erupted in her head as lights danced in her vision. Losing her balance, Miranda fell to the ground, her sword slipping from her grip. Through the haze of pain in her head she saw Magistrate standing over her with sword raised to strike. Miranda had no sword or dagger so she used the only weapon she had. She tightened her muscles, and swung her foot up between his legs. The force of the kick lifted the man from the ground. She could swore she felt something crack. He fell to the ground in utter shock dropping his sword. Miranda quickly scurried to her feet and looked around. Wolf had already killed one soldier and was working on his second; Josan was finishing the last of the soliders. The battle had only lasted of few moments but it seemed like an eternity to her.

As the last man fell, Josan looked around and discovered there were no more enemies standing. He whistled to his companions then rushed into the burning house.

The entire house was ablaze. Smoke poured out of every opening, making it almost impossible for Josan to see. He rushed around the small living area, clearing a path through the burning furniture. Miranda and Wolf entered shortly after and made their way to him. Miranda heard a faint cry for help coming from the kitchen. She crouched low under the smoke and started towards the sound. They entered the kitchen to find Granny laying on the floor gasping for air. The walls of the room were completely consumed by fire and the heat nearly drove them back. Miranda and Josan knelt down and gathered up the grandmother. Blood was running down the side of Granny’s face from a large gash on her head as if someone had hit her with a blunt object. Quickly as they could, Josan and Miranda ushered Granny out of the kitchen. When they reached the living room, Josan motioned for Miranda to take her grandmother and get out. Miranda held her position for a moment, then nodded and headed for the door. By this time the ceiling had caught on fire and the beams creaked in the growing heat. Josan and Wolf started back towards the bedrooms, their lungs burning from the lack oxygen and their eyes stinging from the billowing black smoke. They were only a few feet from the parents’ front door when suddenly a roof support crashed down in front of them, blocking their way. The impact of the huge beam sent Josan reeling back; hto cindering showing him. He regained his balance and quickly moved down the hall again. The beam lay diagonally across the hallway. There was no way that he could lift it, the beam to was to big and the lack of air was making his head swim. There was only one other option he could think of, he would have to cut it out of his way. He reached back and gripped one of his swords, immeditlay scorching heat seared up his arm. He gritted away the pain and took one swing that severed the huge beam with swipe; he slide his sword back in its sheath, as he removed his hand, some his flesh peeled off. Taking a moment to calm himself and steady his breathing he made his way down the hallway. He burst through the last door and almost stumbled over a blanket covering something large on the floor. He ripped the blanket away and found the rest of the family. They looked up with the fear in their squinting eyes. Josan motioned to Wolf and picked up the two children, placing them on Wolf’s back. They clutched at Wolf’s fur with all the strength left in their little arms. Josan yelled at Wolf to get them out here, and in an instant Wolf was out the door weaving in and out of the fiery debris with the children holding fast to his back. Josan knelt down, and slung the mother’s arm around him and hoisted her up, then used his other arm to pull the father up. Josan had to use every muscle in his body to pull the man to his feet. After a moment the father gathered his strength and stood on his own, using Josan for balance. The three made for the door, the trek was slow and painful as their lungs fought for air. Finally reaching the living area, Josan could feel the night breeze from the front door. The entire room was ablaze and they struggled their way to the door. As they neared the door overhead a support beam snapped under the strain. To weak from smoke and the extra weight of the mother, Josan knew there was nothing he could do as the fiery beam came crashing down. Suddnely large hands reached out of the smoke and caught the beam as it fell. Josan looked back and saw Miranda’s father massive girth straining as he held the beam aloft. There was no way for Josan to help him with the mother in his arms. He looked at the father’s face and found his answer in the man’s eyes. They simply said, “Go!” Josan nodded to the man and ushered the mother towards the door. As they stepped out of the house the entire roof collapsed behind them.

Miranda and Granny came rushing over to them. Josan released the mother into Granny’s waiting arms. Miranda patted out the few places where his clothes were smoldering as he gulped in fresh air.

“Where is my father?” Miranda said, realizing he hadn’t come out with them. “Where is he,” she screamed.

“Your father didn’t make it…… He saved our lives by holding up the roof while we got out,” Josan said between gasps.

Miranda fell to her knees with uncontrollable crying. Tears streaked down her ash blackened face as she watched her whole life collapse in front of her. Josan knelt beside her, not really knowing what to do to help. He slowly wrapped his arms around her shoulderings hoping he was doing the right thing. She clung to him and buried her head in his shoulder, weeping for her father.

Josan looked over to the crowd of farmers and saw them back away as one of the soldiers getting up. It was the magistrate. As if readinghis mind, Miranda looked over to the group of farmers. Now rage replaced her sorrow and she jumped up and sprinting towards the man. Josan quickly rushed after her, knowing her intent. She was a few feet from him when she felt a heavy jerk and she came a complete stop. Josan stepped in front of her blocking her path.

“Out my way, Josan,” Miranda said though tears.

“I will not let you kill a man in cold blood,” Josan said sharply, standing firm.

Miranda gritted her teeth and tightened her fist until her knuckles were white. She sprang forward hoping to get past Josan to the man whohad destroyed her life. Josan caught her in mid flight and held her tight. Kicking and clawing she tryied to break free, screaming to be let go, but Josan’s grip held. “Killing him will not bring your father back,” he yelled at her. Realizing her struggle was useless she collasaped into Josan once more.

The magistrate regained his bearings and looked around to see the dark figure standing in front of him with his back turned. The very man who cut down most of his men. Magistrate slowly retrieved his dagger from his boot and stood up. He would not be made a fool of, especially by some nurfer. He would kill them all and raze this entire area to the ground. He silently made his way closer to the cloaked figures back. Clutching his dagger tightly, he was a few feet from his target when pain exploded in his back and chest.

Josan and Miranda looked back at the gurgling sounds to see the magistrate with a sword junting through his chest. Slowly a figure stepped out from behind him. Granny leaned on the man’s shoulder and with venom in her voice, “This is for my son-in-law, you son of a bitch.” She abruptly twisted the sword and ripped it out. The magistrate was dead even before he hit the ground.

Granny stepped over the dead man, dropped the sword to the ground.

“Granny?” Miranda said in confusion. “Where did you learn to use a sword?”

“Where else, the rebellion,” the old women said grimmly as the group stared at her dumbfounded, “What did you think I did in my youth? Sit around and birth children?” she said with sad grin.

Miranda could only mumble the word, “But...”

Then she pushed Miranda back and turned toward the crowd once more. “We have much to do!” she proclaimed with a voice suited for ordering an army, wiping tears away at the same time. “You three gather the soldiers and throw them in the bog; the others put that fire out.”

Without questioning the people made haste and went to their duties. Even Josan, not even thinking twice, started picking up a dead soldier.

As the sun peeked over the horizon, the bodies were deposed of and the fire was out. Almost nothing remained from the blaze except charred wood and lost dream. Miranda’s father was found and pulled from the rubble and humbly prepared for burial. Miranda stood in front of the charred heap which used to be her home, staring at the remains. Josan silently approached and stood next to her, not knowing what to say, so he said nothing. They stood there for many moments until Miranda spoke.

“I saw that this was going to happen,” Josan looked at her curiously, as Miranda continued on with her line of thought. “The vision, the blinding light at the tavern, then us running through the woods, then an image of the house burning. I knew this and I did nothing to stop it. I let my father die.”

“Miranda, you did not kill your father. You had no idea it was your house in the vision,” Josan paused a moment then said, “Maybe it’s my fault. Maybe if I hadn’t attacked those men, this wouldn’t have happened.”

“It was neither of your faults! If you hadn’t saved her, she would be dead right now and Miranda had no way of knowing this would happen,” a voice came from behind them. The two turned around to see Granny standing firm in front of them.

“Your father died doing what he has always done, protecting his family. The blame lies at the bottom of the bog.” Her tone left no room for argument. “Now come along dear, the ceremony is about to begin,” she said in her sweet grandma voice once again.

Miranda started up to the grove where her father was to be buried, but Granny stayed behind. The old woman turned to Josan and looked him squarely in the eyes as she spoke. “I thank you for all the help you have brought to my family and pray you will find the answers you seek,” and bowed low.

“I am honored to have met you,” Josan said with his own deep bow.

“May you stay safe on your journey,” she spoke and walked off after her granddaughter.

The ceremony was held in a small grove to which Miranda’s father used to take his children for picnics. The remaining family gathered around the grave to say their final goodbyes. Josan stood at the tree line, keeping to the shadows with Wolf by his side, respecting the private family affair. As the sun started to rise, filling the small clearing with morning light. The grandmother started to sing, and soon the entire grove was enveloped in her song. Josan couldn’t understand the acient song but knew they were honor Miranda’s father’s memory.

“May you protect your family in death as you protected them in life.” he then silently slipped away and started on his journey once more.

After the ceremony Miranda’s family went back to their burnt-out house to collect the few possesions that survived and loaded them into a wagon. Miranda kept glacing up at the bluff to see if anyone was there, but nothing was there.

“You are looking for him, aren’t you?” her grandmother said with a coy smile.

“I was just hoping to say goodbye to him before he left, that’s all,” she said sheepishly.

“You can’t fool me, child, I see the look in your eyes. It’s the same look I had at your age. Go child, go offand find out who you truly are,” Granny said bluntly.

Miranda just hung her head.

“What’s stopping you?” Granny asked offhanded.

“I can’t leave the family now. This is my place,” Miranda said, trying more to convince herself than her grandmother.

“We will be fine, child. Maybe this is what your vision was trying to tell you: that its time for you to leave, this is not the life for you.” Granny said lifting her grandaughters chin. “You were never meant for this life, I know that and so should you.”

Miranda looked back up to the bluff , then back to her grandmother.

“Go,” Granny said lovingly.

Miranda quickly grabbed her pack, said her good-byes and promised to come back. As she was about to walk away, her grandmother stopped her and held out something wrapped in a piece of burnt cloth. She carefully unwrapped the cloth to find the most beautiful sword she had every seen.

“This was my sword in the rebellion. It has never failed me and it will never fail you,” the grandmother said proudly, “Luckily it survived the fire. It needs to be polished and sharpened.”

Miranda picked up the sword and stared at the blade, it was long and slender with etches all down the center; the hilt was in the form of a great oak tree. It was amazingly light and fit in her hand as if it was made for her. She slipped it in her belt. Now she was ready to see the world. Her father’s dagger on one side and her grandmother’s sword on the other. As she looked at her grandmother tears started to well in her eyes.

“Now, none of that now, you can’t be crying anymore, warriors don’t cry. Now go and take care of yourself child.” the grandmother said fighting back her own tears. They gave each other a quick hug and she waved goodbye to her family as she started running off to the northern pass.

Josan had walked for many hours on the old worn path with his only Wolf by his side, heading to the north hoping to find what he sought. As he reached a rock outcropping , he felt as if someone was approaching from the behind him. He moved off the path and crouched down, hiding in shadows and motioned for Wolf to do the same. When the figure came into view, it was running straight towards him. The figure began to take shape whe realized it was Miranda. He stood up and stepped out of the shadows.

“Thank...goodness...I caught...up with you.” she said as she caught her breath.

“What are you doing here?” Josan asked curiously.

Miranda stood up straight and proclaimed, “I’m coming with you.”

“What? I don’t think so,” Josan said as he stepped back.

“Please, I won’t be any trouble, I promise. I just want a little adventure in my life.” she pleaded.

Josan shook his head in irritation, “This is not some bedtime story. Do you know what an adventure is? It’s not knowing whether you live or die the next moment. Go home,” Josan said angrily.

“I don’t have a home, remember? Now I’m leaving with or without you and if I die on the road so be it,” she said in a annoyed tone of her own.

“NO,” Josan yelled back.

Then something unexpected happened. Wolf walked over, sat down beside Miranda and stared at Josan with tthose crystal blue eyes. Miranda let a victorious smirk appear across her face, placing her arms across her chest as she looked at Josan in truimph. Josan was struck back a moment. What did this mean? Did Wolf want Miranda to come along for some reason only Wolf knew of? Josan could think of a dozen reasons why Miranda shouldn’t come, but he thought of how he never doubted Wolf’s judgment before.

“Fine then,” Josan said with a puff.

Miranda leaped up and embraced Josan in a tight hug. Josan just looked down at Wolf with a scowl. If wolves could laugh, Josan could swear he saw Wolf give a slight chuckle. Miranda let go of Josan and composed herself.

“Well, shall we get started?” she said with a bright smile.

The trio started walking back down the worn trail towards the north.