The Search for Redemption

(I ran across several entries that were never published. Since the subject matter and history have bearing on the current posts, I thought I’d better publish them.)

“I’m sorry, Bitty.”

Just from the tone of Carlo’s voice, and his use of her pet name told her all she needed to know. Teine wasn’t coming back. He’d never know about their child. Bjorke nodded, numb. These things happened, she knew. But the thought of a future with him, their little family starting out… all gone now. Swallowed by the darkness of Duskwood.

“You won’t be alone. I’ll not let anything happen to my grandchild. We’ll raise her together.”

Bjorke squared her shoulders, and shook her head to clear it. “Sure, Carlo. It’ll be fine.” She stood and hugged him awkwardly. “I’ll be fine, too.” She smiled, but it was unconvincing. “Besides, plenty of time to get ready. The baby’s not due for another three months.”

(I ran across several entries that were never published. Since the subject matter and history have bearing on the current posts, I thought I’d better publish them.)

Bjorke sat in her room, not quite sure how to react. The symptoms were there, and the midwife had confirmed it. All she had to do now was fine Tiene, to tell him.

The only information Carlo would give her was that he was away, on a mission. “It’s best you two stay away from each other for a bit, Bjorke. You’re getting careless, more filled with thoughts of each other than of the work.”

As she wandered out into the garden, she saw a patch of yellow flowers. Smiling, she picked one, and held it to her nose. Simone came up to the young woman, and placed a hand on her shoulder. “He’s in Duskwood. He should be back soon. I bet he’ll be just as happy as you are.”

Bjorke looked at her, startled. “Happy?”

The tall night elf smiled. “It is pretty obvious.”

Sniffing her flower again, Bjorke realized that yes, she was happy about it.

(I ran across several entries that were never published. Since the subject matter and history have bearing on the current posts, I thought I’d better publish them.)

Giddy with excitement, Bjorke thought over the orders she had been given once more. She looked up at Teine and saw the same look of enthusiasm on his face. They had been charged with scouting out Northfold Manor, and to take out as many highway men and mercenaries as they could. At last! A real assignment! After months of training, the young rogues were being tested in the field. They raced each other down to the supplies vendor, the competition between them adding an edge to their energy.

They prepared their kits, readied their gear, and headed down the road, racing each other. As they approached Thoradin’s Wall, they tried to get serious. They slipped into the shadows, just on the Arathi side of the great wall. Read the rest of this entry »