Updated 5/3/24

Chapter 6

Rebekah

Her son, David, was now twelve, and it was time for him to start at the School. Sarah was nine and still lost. Rebekah had written Magistrate Gorum regularly, but she hadn’t seen him since Sarah was born. In her last letter, she told him she’d collect her son before the waning moon of autumn. If Jonathan was able to go to Gorum’s farm, perhaps they would finally reunite.

[For I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: everywhere and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.]

Paul the Lightbringer taught us to be self-reliant and content. He had spread the Words of J’shua to the nations, while the original disciples had stayed to lead the Hebrews. She would follow his teachings and be content.

For the first time in three years, she returned to the abandoned Frei colony. The primitive huts, made from lashing saplings together, had all but disappeared, reclaimed by the forest. Yet the things she had hidden there, wrapped in oilcloth, remained uncorrupted.

From the bundle, she pulled out the only shift she owned, a gift from Teress. She fussed with her woeful hair, frizzy and sticking out all over, wishing for a mirror. Then, giving up, she tied a scarf over it and packed her things, and the sword David would need.

After three days, she and her horse, Marley, crossed the river into Esthlanis. Donning the sword, she wore it in the same fashion as Esthlani women, dangling from a sash worn over their long wool tunics, tight across the hips at an angle. She arrived at the magistrate’s estate five days later.

David was with Gorum’s sons when they met her at the gate. He yelled, galloping ahead of the others with a sweeping wave, a short sword on his hip. “Mother, you’re here!”

She spurred her horse, grinning ear to ear. He’s filled out, almost a man. Without dismounting, they hugged as her heart swelled and tears stung her eyes.

The four brothers led the way to the house, mother and son following behind, side-by-side.

“You look well. Is your apprenticeship finished?”

“It ended several moons ago. I’m a journeyman now.” David beamed. “Since you were delayed, they asked me to stay a while longer. I earned this horse and saddle. And our Circle gave me this.” He lifted the flap and patted the book. “It’s like Da’s.”

She passed her hand over the embossed leather holster. “It’s beautiful. Has your father written you?”

“Da has written weekly, but his letters arrive in bundles each moon. He’s been in Tarinland but said he must go to Mestelina. He is looking for you and Sarah everywhere. Are you…?”

Rebekah sighed. “Lord J’shua has missions for us both that, so far, have kept us apart. His still, small voice tells me your sister’s alive and well. Yet, despite help from many, I haven’t heard a whisper of where she might be. Has anything reached you…?”

“No…” David shook his head. “Very little news of Freislicht reaches here. Less reaches my ears. They think they’re being kind, but…Thank you for writing, Ma… I was so worried for you. I grieve the loss of Sarah.”

Rebekah nodded. “As do I, son.”

There was a moment of silence, only the brushing of horses hooves through the meadow grass.

“I appreciate Master Gorum’s attempt to spare your feelings, even if it’s in vain. We must trust J’shua,”

Dismounting at the house, David hugged his mother again. “I’ve missed you so.”

Last time he hugged me, it was around my middle. Now he’s so tall.

Magistrate Gorum waited for them on the porch. “Welcome, Lady Otual. Have tea with me.”

A servant brought out a tray of sliced fruit and cakes. Another followed with the tea and cups.

“Master Gorum.” Rebekah gasped. “You are treating me like royalty. And here I am, taking away your help.” She sighed, looking down at her hands.

“That was the agreement from the beginning. Your son’s prepared now to teach all he knows of horses. Having the knights become horsemen, as well as swordsmen, will be good for all. It’s been a prosperous five years with David’s help. He has a talent with animals. In thanks, to you and Jonathan, and to J’shua, I am giving the knights twenty-five horses. Please tell them to pick them up whenever they can.”

Rebekah sat back, astonished by the magistrate’s generosity. It was a princely gift.

“There’s another matter.” Gorum cleared his throat, straightening his jacket. “I promised Jon, and myself, that I’d keep you safe.”

She snorted, leaning forward for another cake.

“We also agreed that I was unlikely to force such ‘safety’ upon you. That doesn’t mean I won’t try. Therefore, will you permit me to provide you with horses, provisions, perhaps weapons, and an escort?”

“I’d appreciate an escort to the Tarin River Trading Post. But beyond your borders, being accompanied by Esthlani warriors would draw attention.”

“Done.” Gorum poured more tea. “And the other things?”

“Let’s discuss them.”

David yawned and excused himself with a bow.

Rebekah smiled at the thought of traveling with her boy during the week-long trip ahead.

“Be proud of him, lady,” he said. “He’s my best apprentice in thirty-five years. Had he no parents, I’d adopt him.”

“Hopefully, you’ll never be held to that,” Rebekah chuckled, relaxing back in the chair. She took another sip of the fragrant tea.

Gorum spoke of the sale and cost of horses, and Rebekah told of her travels.

“I met boys whose parents had been arrested, hiding in the woods. I believe Jonathan helped them. They have a settlement of a sort near Caswell.”

She didn’t use his name, James of the Wood. Naming people can bring danger.

“Their leader is a boy only fourteen years old. He and his boys learned Jon’s lessons well. I try to pass them tidings of their parents and family. A few have returned home. It is a joy to visit them. They have great heart. I believe good things will come from them.”

Rebekah and Gorum talked about this and that well into the night.

“Before I forget.” The magistrate reached into his pouch and brought out an elegant dagger in an embossed leather sheath. “Jonathan sent this. Said David needed a dagger, and it was customary for the father to provide it. I’ve letters for you.”

“I have one for him, should you see him again or hear of a place to send it.” Rebekah sighed. “We’ve missed each other over the past five years. It’s enough to know he’s well and doing J’shua’s work.”

Gorum nodded, his face solemn.

“Thank you for delivering the dagger. It’s beautiful. David will be pleased.”

Gorum gave her Jon’s letters, and they exchanged their goodnights.

A maid showed Rebekah to a room. She read Jon’s first letter again while the girl poured her a bath.

My beautiful wife,

I so admire your devotion to J’shua and the God of Truth.

I look for you everywhere. I pray for you always and for the swift return of our daughter.

J’shua protects me as I know he does you. The Writings and the spirit of J’shua will comfort you. I extinguish my fears in them continuously through meditation. Otherwise, being separated would be unbearable.

After she finished reading them, she slept soundly, knowing Jonathan was well.

She and David left in the morning. As they traveled in the backwoods over the next six days, they became reacquainted and their conversation grew comfortable.

***

Once in Frei Forest, Rebekah changed back into Tommas Bekh.

David gasped as he watched her walk past, his mouth agape. “Mother!”

“How do I look?” she asked.

“Mother, you look like…a man.” He reached out and touched her beard. “It feels real.”

“Thank you. It’s made of my own hair.”

“Why…?” David’s eyes were as wide as saucers.

“It’s the easiest way to hide in plain sight.” She paraded by him and back. “The act must be flawless. Your father is being hunted. Those pursuing him would, should they find me, use me against him. So I disguise myself. I became so good at playing a man that I kept at it. But,” she hesitated, “there are some things you need to know before committing to the Knights. It is not the only path that lies before you.”

“What do you mean?”

“I’m not merely hiding. There is a group, Licht Gegen, that I work with. Over the last five years, we’ve cautiously built up a network. No one knows how large it is, nor the names of everyone involved.”

“What do these people want?”

“To be free, without persecution from nobles such as the Earl of Lorness. On his orders, our farm was burned, and your grandparents killed. They would have sold Sarah and me into slavery while unlawfully demanding payment. We had a contract. What they did was wrong.”

“You’re scaring me. It’s one thing to hide, but to work against…” He frowned, his eyes scrunching almost closed as they had when he was a boy.

“Licht Gegen wants all to live without interference,” she said quietly, not wanting to alarm him more. “But that requires organization, information, and money. As Tommas Bekh…” She gestured at herself. “I can drink with a man, befriend him, and fill in gaps in our knowledge of the enemy. We have learned much. We work with people from all walks of life who seek the same thing. Farmers, traders, soldiers, lesser nobles, thieves, and less savory folks. Many help us willingly. Some help us for coin. Some out of hatred. And there are some who would betray us.”

“Mother, you can’t risk yourself like this. What would Father say?”

She smiled. “That I’m heeding J’shua’s call and doing what I can. Not every person serves the God of Truth by wielding a sword or spreading his words. You can if that is still your wish. Or you could join Licht Gegen, like me. It has been slow going, for I have not been able to pursue my goals boldly. It requires caution and guile. The role of Tommas is not merely a cover. It has become real. As him, I own enterprises I must keep profitable. I employ more people than you’d believe.”

“You own enterprises?”

“It didn’t start out that way. And there are many things you could do for me, posing in roles from clerk to rich merchant.”

“I…” He shook his head. “Why not give it up? Have someone else run them. Find Sarah. She’s still missing!”

“The contacts I’ve built up give me a greater chance of finding your sister. I cannot let them go. I will find her, no matter the cost or how long it takes. If that means being Tommas, so be it. If it means working with Licht Gegen, so be it. Yet, seeking your sister is not all that I’m doing. It’s complex beyond imagining. But, to give you an idea, I know far more about what is happening in Lorness and High Keep than anyone but a royal minister. There are one or two of them working quietly with us. I’ve been shocked to speak to them and find myself the better informed.”

“That’s…astonishing.”

“It seems I have a gift for this. But, even with the connections that we have established, we are still piecing things together, still trying to identify the key culprits. I know Earl Gaelib Melazera is one of them. But cannot prove it, yet.”

“I…I’d never have…that is…” David looked down, shaking his head.

“What else would you have me do? Others may be called to fold their hands and pray, leaving everything in J’shua’s hands. But my hands are able, my mind is clear, and my need to act is undeniable. What were my alternatives?”

“I…” David wrung his hands.

“Would you have been happier had I done this spying as a woman? Understanding that had I done so, I’d have had to act the harlot to…”

David’s face shot up, a look of horror upon it. “You wouldn’t.” His voice collapsed into a whisper. “You couldn’t.”

“No, I couldn’t. However…” Rebekah smiled, thinking of all the different people helping them, making a difference.

“However, what?”

“As Tommas Bekh, I receive information from the good and the fallen—sometimes the unlikeliest of sources. I have encountered men and women seeking to help our cause, despite their misfortunes.”

He still frowned. “That is extraordinary, Mother, I—”

“David, I’m guided by J’shua’s voice—as you will be. Have faith. Now, we must resume our travels. To give you some perspective on what I do and have done, from this point on, you’ll be my new apprentice, not my son. I’ll teach you as we go. I have stops to make in Fairness Crossing and Lexandria before we go up the mountain.”

***

They traveled many days, finally reaching Easy Slope. As they approached the Kiss in the early afternoon, a dozen student knights trotted up, each wearing a sword on their hip. One lad, who seemed to be the oldest said, “We saw you approaching and came to meet you. Come. Daikon Crispus is about to teach.”

Rebekah waved them off and sat down to watch and eat as she usually did when she brought orphans to the school. She watched as the boys welcomed her son.

The air was crisp with the scent of pine and sounds of wildlife. Surrounded by nature's embrace, the boys sat on rough-hewn logs arranged in a semi-circle, their faces alight with rapt attention.

Crispus stroked his flowing beard, speaking in a measured tone. "Today, my young scholars, we delve into the secret of the Writings." His voice carried the weight of experience, gained from years spent studying ancient texts.

Beside him, Daikon Baxter, an even older man, nodded in agreement. "Indeed, we shall uncover the wisdom of the prophets," he added, his eyes twinkling with enthusiasm.

The boys, clad in simple tunics and rough trousers, listened intently. Their education here was a rare privilege, far from bustling towns and castles. Here, in the wilderness, they learned not only letters and numbers but also the deeper truths of their faith, leading to a self-reliance upon the God of Truth.

After speaking of Paul’s understanding of the sacred secret, Crispus expounded on the life of David. Her son would be fascinated for King David was his namesake. Boys leaned forward, hanging on every word.

“David, young and brave, faced the giant Goliath with nothing but a sling and unwavering faith in the God of Truth,” Crispus recounted, whirling his hand in the air.

Baxter chimed in, “And it was through God's grace that he became a great king. His meekness earned him the epithet, a man after God's own heart.” The day stretched on, filled with lessons on history, theology, and virtue.

After the midday meal, she observed their practice exercises. These early days would be about stances and strength. Three first year students were assigned a fifth year to teach them the basics. Each group followed their leader to a different area of the foothills. From where she watched she could see six of the groups.

“Step, parry, thrust. Step, parry, thrust, again,” a red-haired young man called to David and his other charges. Each boy, forehead creased with determination, held their sword tightly as their master counted the rhythm. “Rest,” the young man shouted.

Their next exercise was sprinting to the Lone Soldier and back several times. The leader took them over many obstacles. Observing David, Rebekah could imagine Jonathan with his long pale blond hair running along the ledges and leaping over crevasses. She smiled, wishing she could stop traveling and spying and keep watch over her boy. She could keep one of them safe.

When the sun began its descent toward the horizon, signaling the end of their schooling for the day, the boys departed for their quarters in the caves, their minds buzzing with newfound knowledge and contemplation.

David ran up out of breath but smiling. “Did you see me? My teacher said I did well.”

“I saw. I’m very proud of you. Your father will be proud too.” Then she pulled him into a tight embrace. “I know you will do well here. But it is time I must go. I love you, my brave boy. I will return next moon.”

“I love you too Ma.” David whispered in her ear, For everyone here knew her as Mister Bekh. He stepped back and gave her a bow. She returned a nod as his new companions called to him and he ran off.

Rebekah sighed. In the quiet of this wilderness, under the tutelage of Daikon Crispus and Daikon Baxter, David would be shaped not only as a scholar but also as a well-rounded man, prepared to navigate the complexities of this life guided by faith and wisdom. She threw on her pack and set out toward her next destination on the circuit.

Chapter 7

Jonathan

He had been in Tarinland for almost a year, far longer than he’d intended. Even under the constant scrutiny of soldiers in their capital, he knew he was meant to stay. However, today the weather was kind and travel easy. It was time to return.

He had lived at the Knights School for five years when he trained there. These last twelve years he had served as a Knight of J’shua. As their custom was, he should have returned home for good, started a circle with his family, and established a community. But his wife and daughter were missing, and the bounty on his head still concerned him.

He did not know who set it.

Commandant Greysun could have, but how would he afford a personal vendetta on a soldier’s pay? The strange man in River Town that pretended to be a farmer might be in service to a rich man.

If he had offended anyone with the means, he was not aware of it. He would probably never know—unless they caught him. A shiver ran down his spine. He battled the worrisome thoughts for a long while and prayed in the spirit. No matter what lay ahead, he was not alone. He slept only a few hours, anxious to arrive at the school.

The next day, as the sun sank to the horizon, his heart lifted knowing he’d see his old daikon again. Spurring his horse, he broke out of the woods—and stopped.

Not again!

The School’s chimney and a few teetering upright timbers were all that remained.

His cold, clammy hands covered his face. His head swam. He grabbed his clenching gut. He was right back on the crest of the hill looking down at the burnt ruins of his home. The horror of losing his family surged over him. If there was any sound left in the world, he could not hear it.

He rode slowly past grave markers and tributes. Did any still live? He dismounted and fell to his knees. Pressing his face into his fists, his thoughts raced to comprehend the dreadful scene.

What happened?

He hung his head, praying, “Forgive me Father. Tell me what to do. Can nothing be done? Why do others attack us?” He looked up as a blue jay screeched and heard the faint thought, Bowing Sister.

Despite the failing light, he galloped through the moon-dappled trails toward the mountain, clutching the reins. His forehead creased in worry as he thought of the boys and their teachers and his own destroyed home. It was hopeless. What could he do to end such evil?

He stopped only when the trees were too thick to see the ground by moonlight. It was unsafe to proceed further. The terrain changed each rainy season because of rockslides and newly uncovered crevasses.

After tending to his horse, he tried to eat but had no appetite. He attempted to sleep but managed only snatches. His thoughts denied him rest, so he prayed.

With the first light, he left his horse to graze while he ran toward the Kneeling Queen’s Skirt. Sprinting across Easy Slope west of God’s Thumb, he headed for the top of Bowing Sister. His pace barely slowed as the terrain grew steeper. Still, he ran. He had to know if someone survived.

At midday, he crested the last ridge to find Daikon Crispus waiting at the end of the path, as well as dozens of students.

“Jonathan!” The old man threw his arms wide.

Seeing his teacher before him, Jonathan breathed a sigh. He bowed, out of breath. “What happened? How many were harmed?”

The daikon’s brows furrowed as he told the story.

Am I the cause of this? Did my taunting Greysun bring what followed?

They talked into the night, exchanging tales of woe and accounts of the growing movement of J’shua.

“I met your wife.”

Jonathan’s head jerked up in surprise.

“She looked well.”

“What of Sarah?” he asked, leaning in.

“She’s not found Sarah, but learned your daughter had escaped her captors. Rebekah believes she’s safe. Until J’shua reveals it, trust she’s in his care.”

Jonathan nodded, groaning. He gritted his teeth at the pain in his chest.

I have to do something. I have to find them.

“Where is Rebekah? I will go to her.”

Crispus gripped Jon’s shoulder. “Her quest is no less important than yours. She left a message for you.”

He rummaged in his leather bag.

The parchment read…

Dearest Jonathan,

I miss you terribly. I look for you constantly. But Lord J’shua keeps me engaged. My role is dangerous, so I cannot risk meeting you, though I wish to with all my heart. I fear I would refuse to be parted again.

The way is clear when it is needed.

I know you are holding fast to the Faith and doing as J’shua directs. We will be together again. I look for that day to come soon.

Yours Forever,

Rebekah

Although relieved to know she was well, at least recently, he feared he’d never find her. All he knew was to follow J’shua. Pressing her letter to his chest, he prayed. The God of Truth alone knew how to end the evil that kept them apart.

Jonathan wiped his eyes and placed the scroll in his sack.

A long night of fellowship soothed his battered soul. He pulled his cloak tighter around him against the cool breeze. The group of new students and old teachers listened in silence as he told his tale and confessed his encounter with Commandant Greysun.

Later, the acceptance and comfortable familiarity of the men and boys around the fire warmed him. But he slept alone with his troubled thoughts in a small cave.

The following morning he left, riding down into the foothills, the, small still voice guiding him westward toward Mestelina. The sun warmed him, and he felt peace. Yes, buildings had been destroyed, and good men had died. It had been a grave error for the Serpent, which the God of Truth had turned into a beacon.

And he had news of Rebekah.

Chapter 8

Sarah

The final day of travel, the morning sun winked at her from behind fluffy clouds, as she, Ma, and four-year-old Benjamin returned to Carington. The Lockes had agreed that Kennah would stay in Lexandria attending to the Locke women when they were nearing their expected confinement, and return to their village for those mothers. Her ma needed to train midwives to take her place if there was an overlap.

This would be the last time Sarah would go to Carington since the duke had been decided after this trial period that she would be raised amongst the Lockes. She would have to say goodbye to Ned and her other friends. Kennah would continue to travel back and forth while training the two women she chose to replace her in Carington. And when she was away, Sarah would use herbs to take care of the minor complaints such as nausea, headaches, and back pain. So this would be Sarah’s last visit home for quite some time.

As soon as the wagon stopped Sarah ran inside the cottage to get her practice sword.

“Take Benjamin with you. I have much to do and it will help me if he is not underfoot. I have many visits to make.”

Sarah scowled, but said, “Yes, Ma.” Then turning to the four-year-old, “Come on Benjamin. You can be the horse!”

Ma handed her a bundle of warm cakes.

“Yay!” The boy ran to her.

“Be back by mid-day. There are many things to do before you move to the castle.”

“I will Ma,” Sarah said as she took Benjamin’s hand and skipped away, twirling the wooden sword.

***

The Knight of J’shua, Sir Sarahad, scanned the horizon from the tower, seeking signs of the approaching horde.

“I’ll protect the people!” the knight yelled, raising the sword to the heavens.

The door sprang open, and three ugly hordes-men stormed in. Their toothless sneers stretched across pock-marked faces that were half-hidden by stringy hair.

“Alas, evildoers. You’ll not harm anyone here. I shall cut you down. Prepare to sleep until you meet the God of Truth.”

The horde growled and lunged. Sir Sarahad danced amongst them with precise strikes and parries. The horde retreated in fear. Dealing them each a last thrust, they fell from the tower with blood-curdling screams. Having vanquished them, the knight lifted the sword again. “Long live the king!”

A squeaky voice called to the knight from the garden below. “Sarah, you said I could be the knight this time. You should be the queen, because Benjamin wants to be the baby, not a horse.”

“Not a horse!” Benjamin declared, “I’m the baby!”

“I’m coming, Ned. Benj, I thought you wanted to be the horse.” Sarah deftly climbed down the tall oak, hopping from the lowest branch. Her belted tunic flapped as she landed in a squat. She picked up Benjamin and cradled him like a baby.

“Wah!” Benjamin smiled. “I wanna cake.”

She set him down and untied the package of honey cakes.

Ned huffed and sat in the grass against the tree, stretching out. “Sarah, let’s fish in the river.”

She handed him a cake. Then, grabbing Benjamin, who was about to run off, she gave him a cake too.

“I can’t. I have to watch Benjamin until Ma returns. But I should go home. I still have chores to finish.” She’d be ten next moon, almost grown up.

“Yeah, me too,” Ned said with a frown.

Benjamin smiled a toothy grin, face covered in crumbs.

***

It was four weeks before the next Locke baby was expected so they returned to Lexandria. She cried as they rode away because she loved the village and all her friends there, especially Ned. No one else practiced the sword with her as valiantly. He was her best friend.

But in Lexandria, she had Melyssa. She was a constant companion for she was charged with Sarah’s education in the ways of the noble class. That meant doing everything Melyssa said to do. Usually she didn’t mind for it was great fun. And she could see that Melyssa was doing what her mother or the governess told her. So her days were filled with reading books and scrolls written by famous Lockes or letter about historical events. Both she and Melyssa would be tested on every book in their library. There was a different tutor for each subject.

She was learning to play the flute, which made her happy because it fit in the pocket of her cloak or her apron so she could take it anywhere. It was smaller than her sword. It was a great comfort when they traveled.

All the ladies taught her to dance. It was wonderful to follow along with Melyssa as her partner. During celebrations she would pair up with a different servant boy. The Lockes had trouble producing boys. But she noticed as she learned bits of the Locke family tree, every other noble line contained Locke daughters so Lockes were everywhere.

The duchess taught management of a large household. At first it was boring to listen to the her go over the accounts with every department head in the castle. The cook seemed always to whine about the quality of the fruit. The housekeeper was a relief for she told all the gossip. The duchess never scolded her, for it was important to know the undercurrents in her home. Very entertaining and informative. The gardener talked mostly about weather and bugs.

It was much harder to be a noble lady than she had ever pretended.

Chapter 9

Owakar

[Ages- Sarah 10          David 13         BH 20              J,Sg,Dr, Ga 32]

It was the last half-moon of early autumn in the thirty-third year of King Edal’s reign. Owakar was off duty since his wards were all asleep. He headed to a tavern outside High Keep. Several roughly dressed men sat at a table, talking in low tones. The chair’s leg squeaked across the floor as he pulled it out and joined them.

The one with shaggy brown hair looked up. “Owakar, what brings you here?” Dressed like a peasant, the guardian’s cloak was dusty and he hadn’t shaved for days.

Owakar looked him over, smiling. “Guendal, I heard about the fire. Was anyone hurt? I read that someone accused Steven Blackhawk of setting it.”

“No one hurt. Blackhawk was behind it,” he said with a chuckle. “Those shacks were about to fall down and Fortuch’s out to ruin him. What’s Blackhawk to you?”

Owakar snorted. “He’s someone connected to Lorness that I have been following for some time.”

“Fortuch’s aunt continues to pray for him. But the man won’t listen. So when we realized what was really happening and saw the opportunity to teach Karl a lesson…Reaven here,” the guardian pointed to his friend, “tossed the stolen silver goblet into the open so that the commander and everyone else saw it.”

Owakar scanned the luach. “Did J’shua approve that? No, but when he heard of it, he laughed and said it was well done.”

The two guardians bumped their cups together. Owakar shook his head.

Reaven smiled. “It was risky, but right now it seems to me, Fortuch’s best hope is to be demoted enough times to change his ways. Otherwise, he could face something much worse.”

Guendal pointed all his fingers toward himself. “How do you like our disguise?”

“You fit in perfectly. I on the other hand should leave. I can’t be seen talking to the likes of you.” Owakar gave them a nod. As he turned to the door, he said, “Keep an eye on Blackhawk for me, would you?”

“Our pleasure.” Reaven raised his cup.

Owakar continued walking down the empty road, not a soul in sight. Only a few rare candles burned inside buildings across the road. When he passed into the shadow of a tree, he disappeared.

***

Over the next several years, Owakar had observed Steven Blackhawk from the Celestial Sea and read of his doings in the luach. He’d no compassion for the boy when he first encountered him, a loyal pawn of Gaelib Melazera. He should have remembered that great upheavals often occurred due to simple changes of heart. Owakar knew he should have been less cynical. But in his defense, he’d a limited view of things as a messenger, with no access to a luach, or the Words of the God of Truth.

Now this boy who’d tragically lost his family, only to be rescued by the despicable earl… It wrenched his heart to think of it. He was a man now, a seeking man. His Little Soldier, Sarah Otual, had set him on a path of questions. Then he found a book of the Writings hidden in his quarters. And ever since then he prayed to Little Soldier’s God every day. Because of the intention of his heart, we knew who he meant.

Owakar finished writing in the luach and reread it.

In the thirty-sixth year in the reign of King Edal, Rebekah Otual had woven her way into communities all over in Freislicht. If they responded positively to her statements of concern for orphans and the darkness spreading across the land, she proposed that they join Licht Gegen. However, some claimed orphans were the problem of the local lord and hadn’t noticed any growing blight. These she blessed with silence.

When she was outside his jurisdiction of Lorness Province, Owakar relied on entries in the luach from other watchers. In response to her visits, many circles were taking up weapons, training, if they had someone to teach them. Others formed teams to walk the village at night, keeping watch. Most agreed that orphans should be saved from the streets. It grieved them when soldiers pushed children into a cage. These circles actively took orphans in.

Owakar had originally scoffed at her secret group, Licht Gegen… He shook his head. The name still made him laugh. It meant ‘light against.’ That wasn’t even a complete thought. He had to admit they did clever work. They’d decided early on that the families that took in orphans would do the best they could for them. This included teaching them all to read, the brightest to write, and placing as many as possible in apprenticeships. If an orphan wished it, they delivered them to the Knights’ School hidden in the Shining Mountains. A sheltered plateau between the two greatest peaks that protected it from the harsh weather and fostered the growth of lower elevation edible plants. That is where the teachers and students dwelled since their school was burned down.

Each of Licht Gegen’s leaders knew which inn Rebekah stayed in nearest them, but not her schedule. Only that they expected her to ride down the main road with a wagon full of plows some time each moon.

Her last visit with her “kinsman,” Commander Taelor, revealed that all the heralds were loyal to the king, who had only approved each after a thorough investigation. They could not be in a noble family line. They could not be in debt to any lord. They had to own land, which they had purchased from the king. This insulated them against pressures from their local lords.

She gradually met with each herald as she traveled from town to town, and bringing them into Licht Gegen. Thus, the various leaders could take a letter to their local herald and send it to another herald. Each letter from Licht Gegen bore a wax seal imprinted with an aspen tree inside a circle. This was created by the wooden coins that Charles had given each when they left the Frei Forest community years ago. Since then, Charles made one as each new leader was chosen by Licht Gegen. This gave the group an alternative communication system, allowing Rebekah to spend more of her time gathering information.

She still rode her circuit, but she stayed longer in each town, getting to know people better. She was now very comfortable as Tommas Bekh, the plow salesman. And she often asked about debt collections or survivors who had returned home. Because she prayed about everything, he could add all this evidence into the luach, to hold against the Serpent at his trial.

Her actions in Lorness had caused far reaching effects when she prayed and sang spiritual songs in the cave in the Bloody Rocks. She was spontaneous. He would not underestimate her again. If the Warrior knew she had done it, he would attack her, so Owakar followed her movements closely, trying to keep her hidden from demons.

As Licht Gegen grew, this would become more difficult.

Her cover as a traveling plow merchant was remarkably successful. She was growing wealthy. Yet, in order to gather intelligence and pass secret messages, she needed to move about inconspicuously, so she changed nothing. Instead, she diverted all her profits into Licht Gegen.

She again had two young assistants, orphans raised by members of Licht Gegen. After two years with her, these boys desired to become knights so she would take them to the school soon. Owakar smiled when she babied them, serving them their meals and making sure they were well rested. She had difficulty treating them like an unrelated man would. She was still a mother at heart.

Owakar had kept up on all the Otuals when they moved out of his area of Lorness Province and he could not watch them directly. Well, sometimes he skipped off to visit another watcher to take a look. Although his employment as a watcher was not tentative as it was when he was an apprentice watcher, he still must follow the rules to keep it. That’s where the fact that angels don’t sleep comes in handy. When all of Lorness slept, he could find the location of one of his interesting humans in the luach and hang out with the Watcher there. Even so he usually only saw them sleeping, but he could lay a hand on them, giving them a more peaceful, healing sleep. Now Sarah was fourteen and David, seventeen.

As for Jonathan Otual, his wanted posters were everywhere in Lorness. According to the luach, he continued to evade the earl of Lorness’ soldiers, staying out of Freislicht for the most part. When he did travel through Freislicht, he stayed near the Shining Mountains so that he could run there if necessary.

The daikons of the Knights’ School, Crispus and Baxter, now taught the novice knights on Bowing Sister. That area had no watcher, it was not populated enough, mostly forest and mountain. Owakar could go there without stepping on any angel toes. He checked in on them and their rambunctious boys almost every night before visiting others. They had five or six students in each year of the program, all sleeping soundly in the caves of the Kneeling Queen’s Skirt. While he watched and prayed for them, he tapped through the luach for the latest updates that the God of Truth had revealed.

FOUR YEARS LATER

Chapter 10

David

[Ages- Sarah 14   David 17   BH 24   J,Sg,Dr, Ga 36]

David shifted on the cold rock, observing his students, three first-years. He would graduate tomorrow. Finally, he’d be sent out as a fellow-knight. Then he could search for Sarah. He was seventeen so she must be fourteen now. His father hadn’t found her, neither had mother. He sighed. If Sarah is alive. He vacillated between imagining her happily playing with children in some village and peacefully sleeping, awaiting J’shua Ha Mashiach’s call. He refused to think of any alternatives.

“Again. Step, parry, thrust. Step, parry, thrust,” he called to his charges.

The three boys rolled their eyes and groaned but began again.

Was I this annoying at their age? Probably so.

“Philip, take a bigger step. It does no good to take a step if you don’t gain ground.”

After a time, David stood. “That’s enough. Ten laps from here to Lone Soldier, the Kiss, and back. Go.”

They took off up the Easy Slope. Philip was the first, Atik next, and Barden last. They were good boys and he’d grown close to them.

He shifted on the rock again as he thought about his father’s last letter. Daikon Crispus gave it to him by the fire last night. It was three weeks old and vague as usual. Reading between the lines, he was reassured that his father was eating and sleeping well and still navigating in the free world. And his mother…. He sighed. She came to the mountain every three- or four-moons bringing supplies to the Knights’ School. She still had not ferreted out what happened to Sarah. His mother bore it with grace and focused on her work, mostly. She reminded him again that he would be out in the world soon and must use wisdom when he chose a wife. He chuckled. He really didn’t think that would happen anytime soon. He had much more important things to plan—his first mission as a Knight of J’shua and which fellow-knights would accompany him.

His boys came out from behind Lone Soldier on their final lap.

They will do well. They won’t falter.

As the sun struck Lone Soldier, casting a long shadow that pointed toward Tarinland, they ran up huffing loudly.

“Are you excited about graduation tomorrow?” Philip asked, as he hunched over to catch his breath.

David smiled as the other two collapsed to the moss-covered ledge. “Yes. I am looking forward to traveling as my father does. I grew up on stories of his exploits.”

“So he’s still free?” Atik said as he readjusted his sword on his belt.

David frowned. “Who told you he was being sought?”

“Everyone knows that. We get the gossip from a third year that works in the kitchen. Whenever someone visits, he listens.”

“Hmph. You may be better informed than me. Last I heard he was still free. Though he’s had some close calls. I pray every day that J’shua does not send him to stand before those who hunt him.”

Barden, who was the quiet one said, “Do you know where you’ll be sent?”

David beamed. “Mestelina. I’m going to help stop a war.” He stood, brushing off his breeches. Let’s eat.”

***

[Ages- Sarah 15   David 18   BH 25   J,Sg,Dr, Ga 37]

This was the last clan meeting he would facilitate. David threw back the thick fur with a huff. The bear hide covering the doorway kept in the warmth of the council hut. The Mestel Chief, Draven Bjorn, and the seven other chieftains had talked on and on for a moon, each one proclaiming their complaints and solutions for the attacks from Freislicht. He wasn’t sure if he’d convinced them to heed Daikon Crispus.

They’d been arguing for hours. Some urged for war. Others offered ways to answer each offense from David’s countrymen. The young knight considered all their words as their hard eyes studied him. He must give a full report to Daikon Crispus when he returned to Shining Mountain.

My first mission. Words and more words, and so much sitting. Complete torture.

***

After many weeks of travel and drawn-out councils like this all along the border, David was finally back in the western hills of Freislicht. His heart ached as he descended the hill, approaching a cluster of hastily built lean-tos. Underdressed children played with rocks. Old women carried bundles of roots and grasses to a boiling kettle. In the midst of a crowd of gray and ragged refugees, settlers of the western-most borderlands of Freislicht people, stood one woman in a bright green shawl, handing out thick blankets.

The nobles had sent soldiers to answer the rumors of Mestel raids. But the Mestels, a resilient and migratory people, merely withdrew into the woods and moved into the forest of their highlands. But when some of their clans retaliated, it was the common folk of Freislicht that were attacked, not the high-minded nobles.

Now close enough to see her better, he watched, nudging his horse into a trot. She brushed away hair from an old woman’s face and pointed to another dishing out soup into tin cups. The long raggedy line snaked through the hovels.

A large troop, perhaps fifty soldiers came down from the northern ridges of Mestelina. Their aptainarrived ahead of them. He dismounted and pushed through the disheveled women and children. David sensed this would bring trouble. Soldiers usually did.

He dropped lightly to the ground and led his horse, determined to remain non-threatening.

“Feed my men, woman,” the captain demanded. “We’ve had a hard ride and fought more than one battle.”

“Yes, sir, J’shua will provide, have your men join the queue.”

The soldiers dismounted, grumbling and shouting as they hobbled horses, and adjusted their weapons.

“No, my men will eat now.”

With hands on her hips, this fascinating girl – for David could now see that she was young – stood face to face with the squat captain as she pointed to the unfortunates behind her. “Some of these have had no food for weeks. Please sir, your soldiers are well-dressed and, it seems, well-fed. Perhaps they could help dispense—”

The soldier pulled his sword, pointing it at her. Every refugee distanced themselves from the threat, creating a circle around her like an opening flower. She went down on her knees, the touched the blade with her praying hands.

David walked briskly toward her, praying in the spirit. With no thought of what he’d do or say, he began, “Good day, Captain. Welcome back to Freislicht. We’d gladly offer this vegetable pottage, but it is very thin and not the sort of fare you’re used to.” He forced a smile to his face, continuing cheerily, “I passed the Border Inn only a mile south of here. The aroma of hearty mutton and sweet potatoes made my stomach growl. If I had not been in such a hurry, I would have certainly eaten there.”

The officer retracted the sword and studied David, who continued, “They have adequate staff to meet your needs quickly. I have at times seen soldiers encamped near it, with their officers housed in its ample rooms upstairs.”

“Thank you, young man, for the recommendation. We were forced to return to resupply.”

“They also have a store. Perhaps they’ll have what you need.”

The officer eyed his navy-blue cloak and the sword on his hip.

“You are a Knight of J’shua?”

David bowed.

“Are you with them?”

“Yes, sir, I’ve just arrived to help.” David remained still, seeking to avoid violence.

The captain scowled, his eyes glancing at David’s still-unsheathed sword, then muttered, “Good day to you.” Sheathing his blade, the captain turned, then signaled his lieutenant. “We ride south to where there’s food fit for us.” With more grumbling and complaints, the men remounted and rode away.

The maid looked up, tears in her eyes. “The God of Truth bless you, sir.” She inhaled a shaky breath. “My name is Cynthia Gardonet.”

His gaze lingered on her light brown hair and eyes that sparked with apprehension and curiosity. “My name is David.” He almost never used his last name because his famous father brought a variety of reactions. “I seek refuge for the night. Would I be welcome?”

The others in her group drew closer. An older man with a weathered face and a solemn demeanor, stepped forward, having returned from the forest with an armful of firewood. “Hail, traveler,” he called out, his voice carrying the weight of authority. “Thank you for interceding for my daughter.” The man smiled fondly at the maiden. “What brings a young Knight of J’shua here?”

“I am on my first mission into Mestelina.”

Cynthia gasped. “Your first mission is into Mestelina. Alone?” Her eyes went wide and then she looked down. “Forgive me sir. I overstep.”

David smiled. “Not at all. It would be crazy if the rumors were true. But the knights have long traveled in Mestelina. For some of us, it is safer than Freislicht.” He thought of his father.

“Oh. According to that officer, there is much fighting.” She glanced at her father.

“I heard him as I came out of the woods,” he assured her.

“Perhaps if they had attacked a Mestel clan.” David hid his smirk. “The clans will defend themselves.”

Her father smiled, showing agreement with his sentiment.

David twisted his foot in the dirt, looking for his next words. “I heard that refugees were gathered nearby. I thought it prudent to pay my respects and seek respite from the road.”

The older man nodded. “You are welcome to share our campfire," he said, gesturing toward those  warming their hands before a dancing fire. "I am Gregan Gardonet, and these are my companions. And this is my daughter, Cynthia.” He pointed to the young woman, who blushed and looked up at David from under her lashes, as, her father gave her a stern look.

David bowed. “I am David Otual.” He wasn’t sure why he told him his surname but the man did not react. “Thank you for interceding with the soldiers. You handled that skillfully. My daughter can be a bit dramatic at times. But J’shua has always blessed her actions. Join us for supper. We have provisions enough to share.”

“I would be honored,” David replied, his voice carrying relief for he was weary. As he followed Gregan towards the campfire, his eyes briefly met Cynthia's once more. His breath caught. In that fleeting moment, a warmth passed between them.

“We were sent by our lord, the Duke of Lexandria to bring provisions to the refugees. And if I find any of his cousins, I am to bring them home if they wish it.”

“His cousins?”

“Young people.” Gregan shrugged. “Three of his daughters have married and settled in the borderlands. But since so many have been uprooted from their homes, we don’t know where they are.”