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[libertyy-belle]

GOLDEN GATE MASTER POST

The War of Brothers was a solemn time within the continent of Thyrena. It was needed, however, for the ascension of man. The cost of the battle was greater than any war before and fear had laced itself throughout the greater good. By the end the battle became futile, the consequences of it had already settled within the cracks. 

The twin dragons, born from flame and ash, rising toward the perfect world, torn apart when the Battle for the Gate to Paradise reached its peak. The kin of the Dragons and the people who followed their stead split into a vicious division.

It was no surprise when the war had come to a stand-still; an ultimate battle at the steps of paradise, only ending when the two dragons had collided and vanished in a blinding light. Neither good nor evil truly won that day and the weight of silence continued for generations after.

Lingering was only the remnants of the story that had unfolded and all the people could do was try to pick up the rubble of the world. Evil still was weeded into the foundation of the new world and only unlocking the Gate would finally clear the darkness.

No one knew what lay behind the gate, only stories of a powerful magic filled with love, peace and unity. A magic so potent that world peace could be attained - or in the wrong hands, wreak utter havoc.

The brother dragons had spent their lives yearning to heal the earth with this magic, their two younger ilk taking up arms to further the cause.

It was greed which inevitably tore them apart. One brother wishing to harvest the power to keep for himself to rule the land with fear and manipulation. Whilst the other wished to harness the magic in order to invoke harmony and balance throughout the land.

After the final battle, the path to the gate was lost, and many tried to find it once more. It was said that the spirit of the dragons was never truly vanquished. A prophecy had been spoken once by a wise shaman: that a child with the spirit of the brothers shall be born and guide the people of Thyrena toward salvation.

Only the child of the prophecy could find the golden gate once more and unlock the power behind it. Whether it would be used for good or evil was never known, but opening the gate would surely unravel the mysteries of the plains in which we tread.

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

[libertyy-belle]

THE GOLDEN GATE || CHAPTER 4

The next day came too soon, and after my daily stop at the bakery, I wandered near the port. The smell of the bay was comforting, and I knew I would miss it. 

I didn’t know how to tell my parents that I had decided to go. My savings and a bag of necessities lay by my bed, waiting for Edwin to return. My gut wrenched, and I couldn’t tell if it was from nerves or excitement. 

I settled on both.

I stayed at the port for hours until I felt it was time to trudge home. On my arrival, I was greeted by my father. The bag I had packed was sitting on the counter beside him. I knew what was about to come, but I didn't have the heart to have this conversation.

“Anais.” He said, his voice startling me. He reserved that tone only for when he was serious, a rarity. I strode to sit on the stool across from him. “What is this?”

“A bag of my things, I am going on a brief trip,” I replied coolly, chin lifting as I was prepared to hold my ground.

“A trip where?” He pressed further, a frown lining his lips. “When were you going to tell us?”

I looked over my shoulder to see Marlene helping a customer, her gaze locked on me.

“I did not know how to bring it up, but I was going to say goodbye.”

My father shook his head, motioning toward the bag. “So when are you leaving?” 

I choked up a bit, the realization of how much I would miss my family now dawning on me. “Tonight.” That was all I mustered up.

His gaze fell, his posture– still and stiff. I saw his jaw tighten, and I prepared myself for the worst. My father never shouted at me, but he had other ways to make me think about my actions.

 I couldn’t bear to hear him say he was disappointed, and while I waited my spine sunk down in shame. 

“I put some treats in your bag for the road, and a few extra coins to make sure you can get wherever you are going.” His frown faded into a half-hearted smile, and I couldn’t help but tear up at his kindness.

“Oh, papa,” I muttered, lifting myself from the seat to wander around the counter and take him into a tight hug. His arms wrapped around me, holding me as if it were the last time he would ever see me. I promised myself it wouldn’t be.

“You are an adult now, Ann, I knew the day would come.” He whispered into my hair as I clung to him like a child. “Promise me something.” He then pulled back just enough to peer down at me, a sniffle giving away his urge to cry. Blinking away the tears, he placed a kiss on the top of my head. “Promise me you will write to your mother and me whenever you can to let us know you are okay.”

“Of course, I promise. You needn’t worry about that.” I swore so quickly, he laughed at my eagerness. “Every time I can, I will.”

“Good, then I am satisfied. Your mother will pretend to be strong but do not let her fool you. She wept all morning.” My heart broke, and the immense love I felt for my family swelled in the pit of my stomach. In response, I could only offer a dry laugh. 

The rest of the afternoon I spent attached to my father’s hip. Wishing to spend every moment I had left with him. In moments when he would usually shoo me away, I found him smiling instead. A fondness over his expression. 

The darkness spread over the town, night had fallen and it was time. I set my belongings by the door, awaiting the chime that notified me someone had entered. After every ring, I would look to see if it was Edwin. Each time it was not. 

I started growing uneasy, the thought of him not coming leaving a disappointed pain in my chest. Perhaps this was a sign that the whole plan was a bad idea. It was too late to think further about it, the last chime presented the man I had been expecting.

“I see you are ready to go.” He noted, eyes dropping to the luggage beside the entrance. “You pack light.” A grunt of approval followed as he leaned to scoop my things up.

I turned to my family, which now had found themselves lined up behind me. I didn’t want to get emotional, but I felt the tears welling up in the crevices of my eyes. 

My father only shook his head, a signal for me to collect myself. A deep breath soothed the need to burst out into tears, I hugged each of them. Basking in the warmth of their embraces before my mother spoke. 

“We love you deeply, Ann. Just know if you ever wish to come home, your room will remain untouched.” Her words comforted that deep ache I felt. Marlene refused to look at me, her eyes directly planted on the ground. Though a hum she offered relayed her agreement.

“You won’t turn it into another board room?” I inquired, a weak smile offered.

“No, if anything, I would just knock down the wall and make it an extension to my room,” Marlene spoke, her face forcing a positive smile. I held her again, laughing into the folds of her hair. 

“Like you have a say in that, Lene.” My father huffed, stroking my back with a palm before I released my sister. I felt the emptiness of where she stood, the need to cling to her longer pressing into my forethoughts. I relented, stepping back and to the side of Edwin. 

“Very well, I will attempt to get her back in one piece. Worry not.” He said dryly, causing a frown to press onto my face. “I will keep her safe.” Corrected the knight as he saw the glare I held.

“Take care, Anais. May love guide you, and may you find whatever it is you are looking for.” My mother placed her hand on her chest, muttering a silent prayer in my honor. 

The turn to leave was the hardest, ripping my eyes away from the people I held closest. 

I will see them again.

I reminded myself. I promised myself. If we were to pursue the gate, then this journey would be for them. 

Upon exiting the tavern in the wake of night, I moved along the cobbled road. Beside me, strode Edwin in his tall glory. Huffing a bit with each step he took. I looked over at him, pursing my lips in thought.

“Why are we leaving in the middle of the night?” I asked, offering my hand out to take my bags from him. He shook his head, a knight indeed.

“I want to be settled on the outskirts of town so that we can leave when the sun peaks.” His gaze fell forward as we passed through the town. 

Anyone who may have thought of bothering us was turned away by the sheer presence of the Grand Knight aside from me. The reflection of the lit lamps highlighted his reflection, and any other details flushed out in the darkness. 

After a few more moments of quiet walking, I spoke again, “I assume your friend is waiting for us then?” 

“Aye, Henry is up a mile out of town at the camp. He is excited to meet you, I think he has grown tired of only looking at my face.” He smirked then, flitting a gaze to me. “As beautiful as I may be.”

I couldn’t help but laugh, nodding my head. “I will be thrilled to meet this Henry, considering he knows so much about me and I know very little of him.”

“He has got a good head on him, that one.” His hand moved to sling my bag over his shoulder, a hum of thought vibrating from his chest. “Young, so I know he was getting stir-crazy in the cottage back home. Was practically zipping around with excitement when we got that letter.”

“Do you not think it is odd, if not dangerous, to follow a letter that was unsigned?” I pondered, his expression giving away that he had.

“I just know it was His Highness, Prince o’ Peace. I cannot put my finger on it, but it had his touch to it.” The Knight’s chin rose with pride, evidence of his admiration for the royal.

“Why would he not sign it then?” I pressed further, feeling somewhat uneasy about it.

“He is also known to be cryptic. He wants his followers to think, not just be ordered around like his brother.” 

The mention of Jaezred sent a shiver down my spine, reminding me of those memories that grew clearer every day. I wondered how two brothers could be so different, and how their younger brothers must feel. Growing up under such large shadows.

I pondered about this the rest of the way toward camp, finally arriving after a long walk. The camp was quaint and left wanting. Only two poorly crafted tents, a large fire in the middle, and stones to sit on. 

I watched on as a horse contently nipped away at the wet grass, unbothered by the man fiddling with the saddle.

Surely this is not how we are to be sustainable during our time together?

I pushed away the intrusive thought and stepped over some bramble to stand aside the fire, Henry there anticipating our arrival.

He looked kind. His hair was matted up into wild brown curls, his eyes a soft color in a similar fashion. Wild, yet beautiful. He held some facial hair among his features, one that could be compared to a young man trying to look older. Then he grinned a lovely and charismatic grin.

“Anais, it is a pleasure to meet you.” Quickly he stood, and I couldn’t help but feel important. I smiled back, trying to mask my coyness. I didn’t want him to think poorly of the girl who he was to set upon an adventure with.

“You must be Sir Henry, the pleasure is all mine,” I said swiftly, the smile I held unwavering.

“Please, we are a band of adventurers now. No need for formalities, Henry does just fine.” His hand reached for mine, shaking it gently. 

I looked toward Edwin, who grumbled quietly at the exchange before plopping down with an annoyed huff. Looking between the two men, I realized the odd pairing they made. 

Opposites do attract. 

“Well, you lot better get to sleep, we have a long road ahead of us tomorrow.” Edwin finally stated, gesturing toward the lousy tent made for me. Upon noticing the frown on my face, he laughed. “Perhaps on the way to our destination, we can stop by your hometown to get some better supplies.” Gesturing toward Henry.

“It would probably be best, yes.” Henry agreed in a quiet mumble, nodding as he looked about the campsite. “We put together all of this rather quickly.”

“Where is your hometown?” I finally inquired, after letting the silence linger for a moment.

“Not far along the main road, there is a little place called Mountsond.” He smiled fondly, leaning back a bit to peer at the fire between us. “It has been quiet since the war, the lack of guards and the ever-increasing presence of creatures caused quite the stir.”

“I have heard of it, some took board at the inn after a raid.” As I stated this, his face grew darker. It was unsettling, the charming man who was there before was replaced.

“Children of Jaezred. Stripped the whole place down looking for something.” He picked at the grass beside him, tossing it into the flames. “No doubt something for their grand scheme, whatever it may be.”

“You think they are planning something?” I further examined, gaze tracing over his stiffened demeanor.

“You might not know it living on the port, but the smaller cities outside the protection of the Ember Convocation.” A pause followed. “Have suffered great losses since the war.” Sir Edwin chimed in, reaching into his sack to withdraw a pipe.

The Ember Convocation was the band of large cities connected by the main road. After the disbandment of the twin Prince’s committee, the remaining leaders bounded together to form an alliance. Luthersburg, the port I was born into, was one of five major settlements on the small continent that remained standing after the disappearance of the two brothers. 

I felt some sort of reflection of guilt in the pit of my stomach, unable to fathom the cruelty the lesser populated areas had endured. I had been sheltered my whole life from the evil that lay outside, and I wasn’t sure how to feel about encountering it now.

I shoved down the swelling in my chest as best I could. Offering only a sad frown to Edwin’s claim. I smoothed my palms over the threads of my skirt before rising.

“I think I ought to head to bed for the night, I am awfully grouchy without enough sleep.” The joke eased the tension in the air. Henry became much more pleasant, even offering a small smile. 

“We will see you in the morning, Anais.” He noted, lofting a palm to wave his goodnight. 

Edwin simply hummed his response, and with that, I clambered into the little privacy I had. My head rested back against my makeshift pillow which consisted of my bag plus a linen blanket the Knights provided. 

Sleep was easy to find, the stress of arriving dissipating and leaving only the stress of continuation. I took the time before sleep to think about what lay ahead. 

Certainly, it wouldn’t be easy. The travesty of the world surrounding me had become clearer by the day. The sheltered life I lived had not prepared me, but I was no coward. If we could achieve peace behind all this, who would deny the journey?

[libertyy-belle]

THE GOLDEN GATE || CHAPTER 3

During the morning I kept an eye out for the old man. However, by the end of my errands, I was so tired from lugging around the groceries- I had forgotten about him.

Arriving home, I dropped everything onto the counter and let out a tired puff. It had only been a few hours, but my feet ached from all the trotting around.

“Did you pick up the orders, Ann?” My mother wasted no time in her interrogation.

“I did, they are in there.” I motioned toward one of the linen bags that I had haphazardly thrown down. My hands rubbed at my shoulders as I stretched out my neck, the pain of such a heavy load starting to set in.

“How old are you again?” My father joked as he appeared from the kitchen, his lips morphing into a smirk. “You say you are twenty but the way you are grunting, I am beginning to think you are sixty!”

I couldn’t help but stick my tongue out at him, in which he mimicked back at me. “Very funny.” I rolled my eyes. “If you keep making mean jokes like that I might just leave you to clean up tonight’s rush alone!”

He feigned a dramatic shock, hand launching to cover his heart. “You take that back, and on a rush night, you must be very serious.”

I shook my head trying my best to keep a straight face, though a laugh broke free as he swooned over the counter. 

“Always so dramatic,” My mother muttered, a smile growing now on her face. 

“You both wound me!” He gripped his chest, turning slowly toward the kitchen. “I will be prepping food for the dinner crowd.” he paused, looking briefly over his shoulder. “While mending my broken heart.”

With that, I heard his laughter erupt through the now-closed door along with a sigh from my mother who trailed after him. “Go ahead and tend to the customers, Anais, whilst I make sure your father doesn’t slice open his hand again trying to cut the carrots.”

After they both had gone, I made my way around the room to each of the patrons. Ensuring that they were well stocked on drinks and food before retreating to sit behind the counter.

I sat listening to the murmur of conversations, looking from group to group. It was a quiet evening, no one was drunk enough to make it loud. 

An hour had passed before it started to get busier and Marlene finally arrived from wherever she had been to assist me. My parents were busy as they filled drinks and cooked meals. 

My favorite part of the week was music night. It was when it got busy and the rowdy crowd rolled in. I enjoyed it most when my father invited a bard from another town to play.

The music was lively, the crowd chiming in to sing along to songs they knew and even songs they didn’t. Men and women danced around, laughing in their drunken stupors. I had been so entertained by the show before me, that I had forgotten completely about my worries. 

I began to look forward to bed, tonight I would surely be kept awake by excitement. Not by another nightmare.

The crowd thinned as people went home, the last customer wishing me goodnight before stumbling out the door. I heard my parents cleaning and laughing in the kitchen as I began tidying the den. 

Marlene helped as best she could, though after she began getting lazy with her assistance- I shooed her off to bed. She skipped upstairs and I had begun to think that she was doing a poor job on purpose.

It was well passed afternoon now and the man had not shown. I began to think I scared him off, or perhaps he wouldn’t come at all. It was discouraging, to say the least, I was looking forward to talking to him once more.

Just as I began to lose hope altogether, the chide alarm of the bell rang. The door creaked open to reveal a rather tired familiar face. 

He offered me a tight-lipped smile, striding further into view as I was wiping down one of the tables. I couldn’t help my face as it first lit up, then quickly faded into a scold. 

“I didn’t think you were going to come, ” I said flatly, irritation panged in my chest.

“Got caught up in a few things, my apologies.” 

Motioning toward the seats beside us, he strode and plopped down. I followed, taking my seat across from him and setting my rag down in front of me.

“You never told me who you were, or why you left so abruptly,” I asked after realizing he was not going to speak first.

“Sir Edwin, Grand Knight of the Prince of Peace,” he said proudly, leaning back in his chair as his chest puffed up. Despite his old age, his mannerism was youthful. Like a child, playing pretend. 

It faded as he slumped back down and hummed a thoughtful noise, looking out the window beside us and the back at me.

“I wasn’t completely honest with you yesterday,” 

“About what, sire?”

“A few weeks ago a letter, unsigned, arrived to me.” The story started, his own hands clasping together. “I have been searching casually for access to the Golden Gate. I had gotten nowhere with it, lots of dead ends. Hard to keep track of a trail so old.”

“You were seeking the Golden Gate?” 

“Aye, the one from the fables of the Brother dragons. The Gate to Paradise.”

“Yes, the Golden Gate- go on.”

“The letter had directions to a cave not too far south, only a day trip. Two at most.” His hands released to massage his temples. “It also mentioned your name and this tavern. Anais Vasille. It said I needed to bring you along or else I wouldn’t be able to get what I needed from it”

“Why did you not lead with all of this?” I asked blatantly “Couldn’t you  just have gone to the cave anyway?”

“I wanted to see who you were and if you could be trusted. I didn’t know that you had seen a creature, or that you were so young” He said, his tone nothing but kind, still rubbing at his head he continued. “I did try after I saw you were just a kid– but the letter was right– nothing came from the cave.”

“That is why you were late I presume.”

“I want you to come with me to the cave, I hate to ask it of you but I think you may be important.”

“Go with you?” I blinked, gaping at the proposition he had laid in front of me. “I cannot just get up and leave home, my parents need me here.”

“Tell me, Anais. Tell me you haven’t felt it. Something is calling out to you, and whoever sent this letter knows it too.”

As much as I hated to admit it, he was right. The stagnation of every day had grown on me, and even though I loved my family more than anything; I needed a change.

I had grown up in this town, I loved this town. It was safe and it was home. Yet as my eyes wandered to the window beside me, my gaze was directed up toward the clear sky. The stars studded the velvety black sheet of night. I heard something, so incredibly quiet. The sound of bells. 

“Is it just you then?”

“No, Sir Henry who isn’t much older than you. Recently granted knighthood after serving as my squire. He is waiting on the outskirts of town.” The old man picked at his teeth. “He didn’t want to feel intimidated by too many people.” 

Considerate.

“Must I decide this moment?” I finally said, breaking the silence.

He groaned, rubbing his rough palms against his face. “No, I guess not. I will give you a day to decide” 

Then he slid out of his seat, staring at me a moment.“Just know that this is important, Anais.”

He waved his hand dismissively at me before striding toward the door. “I will see you tomorrow, hopefully with your bags packed.”

Before I could respond, he was gone. The sound of the door shutting left the room still and I stayed sitting at that table for a few minutes after.

I pondered on what he had offered. I was surprised I was even truly considering it. 

I heard a shuffle from behind me, quickly spinning to address the noise. Marlene, who had been crouched behind the counter, lifted to peek over the island at me with a wide grin. 

“It is rude to eavesdrop, Lene,” I frowned, rolling my eyes.

“Anais, you must go,” she cooed as she flew around the counter to sit in the man’s absence.

“What about Mama and Papa, what about you?” 

“You are always thinking about us, you are never thinking about you,” she scoffed, jutting a finger to point at me “You are an adult now, what do you want?”

I hadn’t ever had time to really sit and think about what I wanted, and now that I was; I felt myself even more drawn to adventure.

“What if you do find this Golden Gate?” she said eyes widening in wonder, releasing a giggle as her head bobbed along with her blonde locks. “Think of that!”

“And what if I don’t, what if it is just a big waste of time and something ends up happening here?”

“If you don’t then you get an interesting few tales under your belt to peg back and those obnoxious sailors.” she mused with a smirk, grasping my hands into her own. 

As she squeezed, I felt the worry melt away from my chest. “I love you, Ana, please do what will make you happy.”

“You make me happy!” I laughed, squeezing her hand back.

“I will be here when you get back, go seek your own happiness within yourself. Not within us,” she peered over her shoulder at the kitchen doors “Sides, I think Papa could use it too- he is rather codependent on you.”

Then we sat like that, holding hands and staring at the table in silence. I enjoyed every soothing moment that passed. It was simple, but it felt so special to have this time with her, just the two of us. In that moment, I knew that our bond was unbreakable and that we would always be there for each other, through thick and thin.

It was at that moment I took a deep breath and resolved myself to the decision. If she could believe in me, then surely I should believe in myself too.

“I will bring you back a trinket or two, yes?”

“I would be very cross if you were to come back without a singular present,” she noted with feigned seriousness before it fell into one of a more real nature, “Are you going to tell Mama and Papa?”

“Of course, tomorrow, it is too late now.”

“I will pick especially beautiful wildflowers tomorrow to send you off with.”

“Thank you, Marlene.”

[libertyy-belle]

THE GOLDEN GATE || CHAPTER 2

7 YEARS LATER

It was in the early afternoon, and the bell above the door caught my attention — an older man sauntered into the main den.  His dark eyes scanned the room as if looking for threats.

Upon finding none, it seemed, he continued on his way. Easing down on a stool in front of the counter. His rough palms placed down on the island, a tired exhale following as he looked at me. 

I couldn't help but blink mindlessly at him, the energy he cast drawing the attention of the remaining customers and myself. 

I looked around momentarily, seeing if I could spot my father within the den of our tavern; in case something were to happen. He was nowhere in sight.

"What kind of whiskey you got, younglin'?" He rasped, drumming his fingers onto the counter with quiet thuds.

"Single malt, blended-" I began before his hand lifted and quickly silenced me.

"Just get me something strong, aye?" 

I only nodded, fetching what he had asked. 

The atmosphere was tense, though the conversations about the tavern had continued. Most of the sailors who had taken seats remained unmoved, glancing at the man in front of me occasionally. As I made his drink, I looked at him through the wisps of blonde that were enough to shield my observing eyes.

He looked a little bit older, worn in more ways than one. His gray hair was long enough to brush his shoulders, strands tucked away behind his ears. Scars lined his face, and I couldn’t help but wonder where he could have possibly gotten them from. 

I offered the glass, and almost as quickly as it was given, it was gone. Then, releasing a few puckers of his mouth, he grunted and nodded. 

"Is there anything else I can get you?" I choked out, quickly clearing the anxiety from my throat. "Food?"

He shook his head before settling his gaze onto mine. Then, lips morphing to a tight frown, he leaned forward, inspecting my face. 

"What is your name, lass?" he inquired over the rim of his empty drink, tapping it a few times with his pointer finger before sliding it back toward me.

“Anais,” I said, trying my best to keep cordial.

“You are a little young to run a tavern, no?” he said, now amused in his demeanor as I let out a soft scoff.

“My parents run the tavern, I only help keep things in order.”

“You look tough enough to handle your own, ever been outside Luthersburg?”

I shook my head, my life thus far had been confined to home. After all, there was no need with Luthersburg being a port city on the Eastern coast. As much as I loved it, things had grown monotonous.

“Sounds boring,” he noted as if reading my thoughts. “Though I can tell you have had some adventure, there is a glint in your eye.”

“If you count trekking down to the docks to count passing ships' an adventure, then I have plenty of stories to tell.” 

He boasted a hearty laugh, “No, lass, I meant more than just passing ships.”

I blinked at him, confused about what he could mean by such an implication. 

"What do you mean then?" I inquired.

"The Bastards of Jaezred."

The story of the two brothers and the war they created was spread through the lands, but only bits and pieces of the story I knew by heart. Jaezred, Prince of Inquity, and his brother Josian, the Prince of Peace.

"I am not sure what you mean by that; I am not a follower of Jaezred," I said quietly now, worried about eavesdroppers.

Followers of Jaezred were cursed magical creatures who plagued the forests nearby and terrorized the townsfolk. Though they had frequented Luthersburg less, their presence after the War was not completely forgone like their master.

"I see plainly that you are not," he said, looking over me just a moment "You have seen them, though."

I froze in my movement to gather his second drink of the night. But, of course, there wasn't any way he could have known that. I hadn't even told my parents what had happened that evening in the forest east.

"Aye, I am right." He said, now a small smile lifting on his thin chapped lips. "They say those who look into the eyes of one of those fiends hold significant weight. There is a certain glint I have grown used to."

I tried to think better of it and let it go, but my curiosity pushed the words from my chest, "How would you know?" 

The man rolled up his beaten-up sleeve, cuffing it at his elbow. On his forearm stood a symbol I had seen only in the tattered books in the library. The sign of Josian. 

I dipped my head in respect. "It is an honor, sir." 

Following the Prince of Peace was a great honor; anyone who took heed to his principles was admired.

During the aftermath of the war, it was those followers who helped rebuild. They were healers, often spreading love and unity among those who survived. 

"No need to be so formal; my days of serving were long ago. I am only a wanderer now." He motioned again to the drink I had paused making. I continued finishing it as he spoke again. "Unfortunately, the cases of meeting those rotten things are on the rise."

"I barely remember it; I was very young," I admitted, most of the memory of that day blocked out. So I couldn't remember it even if I wanted to. Which I did not.

"Few people live to tell the tale; how did you escape?" He pressed further as I handed him the drink.

"Like I said, I barely remember." A quick shrug of my shoulders followed. He hadn't seemed very pleased with this response.

"Alright." He plainly put, before lifting the drink to his lips, nursing it more than the prior one.

"What was it like- serving Josian?" I couldn't help but ask after a few beats of awkward silence.

His face fell into one of reminiscence. "It had its moments. I never met him myself, though others had. He was a kind man." 

"And his brothers?" I almost interrupted, but with a small breath, I steadied my curiosity.

"His brothers were troublemakers. I am sure you already know about his twin," he took another long sip of his drink before resting it on the counter. "They had a younger brother as well named Saeros. A great swordsman and the strongest warrior in the pursuit of the Gate."

My elbows were set on the counter, chin resting neatly in my palms as I intently listened to him. 

"Were they all dragon born?" I asked after a pause, leaning forward. 

"Aye, they were. Not much is known about how they came to be, but they all were created in the same fire. The Fire of Men is said to be our earth's first fire." He drank the remaining liquid in the glass, letting out a puff of air from his nose.

I bobbed my head slowly as I took in everything said so far. I felt some remorse for neglecting the other customers, but it was not every day you could hear of the past firsthand. "The Gate, is it true it was lost after the end of the battle– and the twin Princes were said to have disappeared– were they ever found?" 

"Aye, it was lost. Vanished alongside their Highnesses," He didn’t seem too bothered by my interest, "I think it is my turn to ask the questions." He noted, leaning back some as his arms crossed over. I sighed, lofting a palm to gesture for him to begin questioning.

"Where did you see it?" He began.

"The forest east of here, I had gotten lost as a child when I went to find berries for my sister, and I's pie." I gestured toward the window, the looming forest not too far up on the hill.

"Go on." He drew out impatiently.

"I am honest when I tell you I remember very little, though I can recall the eyes. They were so cold and dark. I had never seen anyone's eyes look like that." 

I explained, feeling my body go cold as I saw them in my memory.

He spat down beside him on the floor, his face growing bitter. "I have seen it before. It is enough to paralyze any man."

"It had killed someone. I had found it feasting on the remains. I wanted to run, but I couldn't. It was just staring at me." I placed my face into my hands, exhaling a shaky breath. "It didn't attack me.”

I didn’t wish to relay any more of the story, he wouldn’t have believed me even if I did tell him. The knitting of his brows, though, told me he knew there was more to the story than what I was telling.

“What happened next?”

“It simply ran away, that is all.” I took his now empty glass, placing it on the back counter to wash.

I heard his skeptical hum from behind me as I shifted on my feet, trying to look busy to distract him from pressing further. To no avail.

“I have run into quite a bit of those nasty pigs, it is unusual for them to leave prey unharmed,” I felt his eyes burning into the back of my head. “You can tell me the truth, kid, I am not going to judge you.”

I felt silly thinking that he would. If he truly was a Josian follower- then he had been in runs with those creatures before. 

“It was going to kill me, I just knew it,” I swallowed hard, slowly turning back to face him. “So I closed my eyes and waited when there was this bright light.”

 “A light?” he grew still, face falling flat. I was worried I had said something wrong but within his gaze, I saw that it was intrigue that pressed forward. 

“When I opened my eyes again I was back here, home. Like nothing had ever happened.”

“Interesting.” he cleared his throat, the pressing want for more information left his expression as he settled down. “It is growing late, do you think we could speak tomorrow?”

“Whatever for, do you know what happened?” I asked, surprised by the sudden shifts in his demeanor. 

“Expect to see me sometime in the afternoon.” he put simply, not waiting for me to decline.

“Is everything-” 

“Thank you for the drinks, kid, I will see you in the afternoon tomorrow.” he interrupted, piling a few coins onto the counter before leaving abruptly.

My mouth hung as open as the door he quickly left through, staring ahead as it swung shut. 

It was only a moment or two after that my father came around the corner from the kitchen behind the bar, looking at me with a lifted brow. 

“You are gaping like a fish, Anais, what is the matter?”

I was at a loss for words, scrambling to find a response. “There was just a man here, he was acting so strange and left in a hurry.”

“Those damn drunken sea rats, never mind him,” he scoffed, rolling his tired shoulders back before grinning. “I should be puckering like a fish too- you are down here helping without any gripe!”

“How cruel I would be to forsake you of my company, Papa,” A hint of a sly smile curving on my lips. There was nothing like his company to take my mind away from the weird interaction I had just encountered.

“Ah! Cruel indeed, though I think it is much crueler for you to leave me to dry all these damned dishes alone,” griped my old man, tossing a rag in my direction.

I fumbled to catch it and to my satisfaction, I managed to snag it the moment before it hit the dirty floor. 

–

My mother returned with a canvas tote brimming with items. Ingredients, I assumed, for the dinner crowd. With a huff, she dropped the bag on top of the counter.

"You know, I really wish you girls would get up earlier to help me with my trip to the Square." she sighed.

Her lips pursed, and those bright grey eyes pierced directly into mine. "I am not getting younger — and my back hurts terribly from the cold."

Winter had barely passed, and most were thankful, considering it had been a rough patch for the town, but we managed well. The cold brought people in for warm cider and they tipped well for it. 

"Look what you've done to your poor mother, her back!" My father dramatically elected, turning his head to look at me with his hands aloft in the air. He grinned, finding all of it rather amusing.

"George," Warned my mother with a low hum, her piercing glare now set onto him. His palms lifted in defense, and the grin quickly faded.

His throat cleared. 

"Yes, Anais, what your mother has said… Tomorrow you will get up earlier and go to the market."

I couldn't help the groan that escaped me, though I quickly regretted it.

"My poor bones- and yet you groan! You have no sympathy for me. I carried you for months! I bathed and raised you! Yet you groan," she paused her fit, "Well, you can groan all the way to the Square tomorrow when you pick up the order of meat I placed." She then said with a cheeky grin.

"That will be heaps to carry, Mama!" I quickly cried.

"Marlene and yourself are hearty girls! I am sure you can manage." she proudly responded.

There was no point in arguing any longer. Once Mother had made a decision— there was no straying from it. 

The back door swung open to reveal my younger sister, chirpy. Skipping in, she suddenly stopped as she saw the three of us at the counter. Then, quickly, she spun, heading back whence she came.

"Not so fast!" My mother's voice caused her to abruptly halt in her step. "You will help Anais pick up the order tomorrow. Bright and early," Mother said, her fists placed sternly on her hips.

"Not the meat, Mother! Anything but that. It is so heavy," Marlene sighed, "And if I do not pick the flowers in the morning, they are just not the same." retorted my sister, shaking her head viciously. 

"If you do not, I will return those ritzy shoes you bought and use the money for feed.”

The look on my sister's face was enough to let a small giggle pass my lips. Pure mortification and then frustration at the snort I heaved. 

My mother turned to me, narrowing her eyes. My laughs ceased shortly after for fear of the repercussions. My father moved to rub a hand on her back, soothing her frailed nerves and causing her face to soften. The smile she gave beamed up at him with a fondness I had never seen her without.

It was moments like these that I felt the true abundance of love for my family, even within our bickering we held great weight for each other. 

There was no more said on the matter, for another band of customers had arrived. My mother returned to the kitchen to prepare lunch while my father poured the requested drinks. 

[libertyy-belle]

THE GOLDEN GATE || CHAPTER 1

In my thirteen years, they had always spoken about the east forest as a place I ought to avoid. Tales of savage creatures were often whispered about, and the bastards of Jaezred were no joke. Though I did not believe the stories to be true, for they hadn’t been seen in over a decade.

I trailed up the beaten path toward the lining. Eyes staring down at my feet as to make sure I didn’t trip over the branches that overgrew the dirt road.

The warm rays of the sun beginning to peak over the tops of the trees. It was only morning, but it was getting hot quickly. I pulled my hair back, tying it as neatly as I could. 

The forest felt cramped, ferns lining the bases of the pines. I clamored over the wet ground, part of me regretting the visit. Especially after it had rained the day before. It made the air humid, but the darkness of the dampened ground and trunks made the forest almost homely. If it wasn’t for the heat, I might have considered curling up underneath one.

My mother had told me blueberries often grew a little ways into the forest and though I knew I could easily shop at the square- fresh ones sounded perfect for the pie Marlene and I were to make.

Inhaling the earthy smell,  it settled my nerves. I wondered why people were so afraid to come here; it was peaceful. Grounding.

I wandered and wove through the base of the trunks, enjoying the serenity of it all. The greens of the leaves were vibrant, summer had done them justice.

Taking a moment of pause, I sat down in a small broken up patch of grass and leaves. My palms planted downward as I felt the dirt mold into my grasp. Rolling my shoulders back, I directed my sight above me. The pines offered some shade from the summer sun, the beautiful blue sky peaking through the branches.

This was it. Peace. The vibrations of the earth echoed through my body and for a lull in time I felt like I was connected to the world around me.

After settling, only the whistling of wind against branches and the cooing of birds in the distance could be heard- I closed my eyes. Basking in the meditative connection. I felt the noises gaining distance, almost muted now.

The air had gone silent, the melody of the forest coming to a pause. Suddenly, uncomforting. It was too quiet. 

My eyes opened and the warmness I had just seen prior was no longer affront in my senses.

It had been replaced by a dark eerie tone, the amber colors now hued by a frosty blue. Despite the sun being out only moments ago, I shivered. The warmth of the sun no longer caressed my skin. I stood from where I had been sitting.

I searched around now; the quiet was heavy. Quickly, I gathered my things and began to finish my search for the berries. Something in my tightening chest told me to leave, but I had come all this way. I wasn’t going to just turn away now.

My feet barely carried me as I made my way through the darkening area. I had begun to wonder if time had slipped my mind or if clouds had blocked the sun. I couldn’t force myself to look up at the sky above me. Something drew my eyes in front of me.

A clearing came into view, a patch where there were scarce bushes and trees. 

This must be where mother told me I would find those berries, I thought to myself.

I made strides toward it, though i came to a sudden halt as I heard a crackling in the bushes ahead. Darting behind a tree, I peered around to catch a glimpse of what it could be. 

In the clearing, hunched over, was barely a man. Dark lumps and scales lined his naked back. His skin looked as if it had been charred. Burned. Claws dug into what looked to be the remains of an animal. The sound of ripping flesh like nails on a chalkboard.

I winced, tears filling my eyes as I stared quietly. Fear gripping at my throat, I choked out a quiet sound. Catching the attention of the predator in front of me. 

His head whipped to look in my direction, and even though I was hiding behind the tree, I could see his face. Almost too clear. It was no real man, but a beast. His skin burned irreparably and drooped from his chin. 

The sockets of his eyes sunken so deep, the eyes bulged. I felt as if I were to be sick as his snake-like tongue licked the outline of his mouth. Collecting the blood that covered it.

My gaze fell down to the husk he had devoured. It was no deer. In fact, it was no animal either. A human girl, not much older than I, lay gored among the base of the pines.

 It would be comforting to say that her face was lifeless, but the truth is that I was met with the morphing face of mortification that could only be seen in a human’s last moments staring back at me.

Is that how I am to look after he kills me? 

I wondered as my gaze trailed back up to those eyes.

“Child of the earth, why do you cry so?” The voice spoke quietly and rasped. The lips of the creature hadn’t moved yet I heard him clear as day. I hadn’t even realized I was crying until I felt the trail of warm tears drip onto my chest.

“Are you not starving?” It cooed in the darkness that filled my head. “Come eat, child of Jaezred. He longs for you to eat.”

His gaze held mine, and as I stared into it I felt the despair rotting in my stomach. Every fear I had ever had crept into my throat, burning as I longed to scream. The weight of silence was practically unbearable as I began to pray.

“He sees you. You are the thread in which his cloth he has woven.” Inching closer I felt my bones stiffen as another deep wave of cold coursed through me.

I prayed I would close my eyes and be home, back at the step of the inn. 

His steps carried slowly toward me. Never had I felt so much like prey. The blood from his maw dripped down into the leaves below with each step, his sight unwavering from mine.

“Come child, feast.”

I wanted nothing more than to run, but I was frozen. Paralyzed by the fear that pumped through my blood. I prayed harder. 

“Very well, fearful little worm I shall feast for you.” Suddenly, his pace quickened. I swallowed hard as I closed my eyes. Preparing myself for the inevitable demise that awaited me. A flash of light and a tug pulled me down, slamming my body into the ground.

Death seemed gentler than expected.

I opened my eyes and blinked at the tavern door that stood now in front of me. Jutting my head to the side, I only saw the cobbled street that I knew too well.

I was home, but as I scrambled my brain, I couldn’t recall how I had gotten here.  

Rising to stand, my chest hurt. The heaviness that was held was gone now and replaced by aching. My fingers grasped at my neck, releasing a small hum. I was happy to have my voice back.

Looking at my feet, the mud of the forest still covered the sides. The basket in my grip filled with blueberries. It hadn’t made any sense; I was sure I had been attacked but upon close inspection, there was no sign of aggression on my pale skin.

I sighed an exhale of relief, hand reaching to push open the door I stood in front of. Welcomed by the warm embrace of the interior that was home.