David

Updated 7/30/24

David Ch 2.3

[Ages- Sarah 8    David 11   BH 18    J,Sg,Dr, Ga 30    31st year reign of]

The three-year-old mare, slick with muscle, reared up. Her black forelegs kicked up a storm over David’s head. Sweat dripped down his face as he held his hand high, the lead line dangling down his arm. Soothing words breezed past his lips, and she seemed to listen as he lowered his arm, and she came down with him as graceful as a butterfly.

“That’s it, nice and easy, no need for all the fuss,” he said as his thumb stroked the length of the mare’s black cheek before he set her up in the cross ties, groomed her, and tacked her up for the day ahead.

She was a beauty. The day she was born, Eikhan, the magistrate’s oldest son, told David he could name her and that he would raise her and train her over the rest of his apprenticeship. It was difficult to choose a name when the foal was wobbling on spindly legs, still dripping from its mother’s womb. But he named her Monarch. She would be his masterpiece. From then on, he cared for her. Many moons had passed since then, and David, now almost twelve, had worked for Magistrate Gorum for four years, first as an apprentice, but now as the first stableman—under Eikhan’s supervision, of course.

He fed the colts the last of the oats, then let them out to pasture. He watched them romp and race across the fenced yard. He was as restless as they.

He had longed for this day as far back as he could remember. His father was a Knight of J’shua and he would be one as well. His mother would take him to the Knights’ School. He loved the horses and all that Master Gorum had taught him, but this was his destiny. It was past time for him to start there.

She had written to him and Magistrate Gorum, passages of scripture that she'd read and her meditations, as well as, bits about her day. In her last letter, she told him she’d collect him before the waning moon of autumn. That began tomorrow. He had longed for this day as far back as he could remember. The day he’d see his ma again. The day she would fetch him and take him to the Knights’ School to become a Knight of J’shua, just like his father.

He had wondered if Da would also come, perhaps then his parents would be reunited. It had been two years since his father appeared after the attack on their home. Even longer ago that he’d seen his sister. Sarah was four when he’d left for Esthlanis with Da. She turned eight this year. He sighed.

Shading his eyes, he measured the height of the sun. Time to meet the brothers –Eikhan, Rhoran, and Khant. The four of them rode along the fence line looking for damaged wood, breaks, or any sign of trespassing predators. They were stopped by the grove of pear trees when they heard the bell tower ring a single vibrating peal.

“A visitor, now?” asked Rhoran.

David’s heart leaped. She’s here!

“It must be my ma,” David said as he jumped on his horse, and galloped away. The others followed.

David felt the echo of his excitement in Monarch’s prancing as he waited for the lone rider to approach. But—a tinge of worry dug at his heart too. What if it wasn’t her, but someone else? He squinted, unable to make out the finer details of the person riding up.

Why didn’t I bring my glass?

The mount was the color of hickory …

The rider was a woman …

A woman who wore a long wool tunic …

A woman who had a sword dangling from a sash tied tight across the hips, the same fashion as Esthlani women.

It is her!

Cantering ahead of the others with a sweeping wave, the short sword clapping against his hip, he yelled, “Ma, you’re here!”

She spurred her horse, her face shining with joy. When she drew close, the tears that filled her eyes stabbed the depths of his heart. All the nights of homesickness flooded back, and he had to blink away his own emotion, lest this moment become a blur.

Once close enough, they pulled their horses to a stop beside each other. David threw his arms around her neck, and she in turn wrapped him up and pulled him close filling him with all the comfort the world had to offer.

“I missed you,” he said into her ear, his face buried in her hair.

“And I you.” She pulled back looking him over with a warm smile that melted into pride. “Care to escort me the rest of the way?”

“Of course.” David wiped his face as a cloud of dust ahead grew shorter and the young men he had come to know as brothers pulled up before them. He kept Monarch beside his ma, excited to be in her presence, but—he bit his bottom lip.

What do I say?

Eikhan and his brothers bowed to her. “Welcome, Mistress Otual. See you later, David.” Then he motioned to his brothers. “Back to it.” And they rode off.

“You look well.” His mother smiled, her teeth showing. “Is your apprenticeship finished?”

He blinked, but then beamed as the answer came to mind. “Yes, it ended several moons ago. Since you were delayed, Master Gorum asked me to stay on, so I’m a journeyman now.” His gaze held onto her, looking to see if her smile had broadened, or her eyes had widened, or for any sign that offered so much as a hint of approval. His impatience outpaced him though and he continued on, “Look, see this horse, see this saddle? I earned them, and our circle—” He lifted the flap of the baldric that lay across his chest and patted the book inside. “Our circle gave me this. Doesn’t it look just like Da’s.”

His ma reached over and passed her hand over the embossed leather holster. “It does, and just as beautiful. Has he written you?”

“Yes, weekly, bundles arrive each moon. I think he’s in Tarinland, but his letters are cryptic. He looks for you and Sarah everywhere. Are you …?”

Ma placed her hand on his shoulder. “Lord J’shua has missions for us both that, so far, have kept us apart. Still, his small voice tells me your sister’s alive and well.” Her smile withered into disappointment. “Yet, despite help from many, I haven’t heard a whisper of where she might be. Has anything reached you regarding her whereabouts?”

“No.” David shook his head. “Very little news of Freislicht reaches here, and even less of it reaches my ears.” He twisted the reins in his hands. “They think they’re being kind, but—thank you for writing, Ma—I was so worried for you. I’m still worried for Sarah, and have often questioned if I should be,” he sighed, “if I should be grieving her.” David looked into his ma’s eyes and saw his sadness reflecting back.

His ma nodded. Her hand on his shoulder squeezed. “As have I, son, but we must not let ourselves be swayed by our fears. We must have faith. We must trust J’shua. Though as your Ma, I appreciate Master Gorum’s attempt to spare your feelings, even if it’s in vain.”

David nodded.

Silence, filled only with the rhythm of horses’ hooves on the well-trodden pathway, fell between them.

***

Dismounting and tying Monarch up at the house, David smiled as he saw his master, Magistrate Gorum, waiting on the porch.

However, before he approached, he went over to his ma and embraced her again. “Last time I hugged you, I had to  reach up for your waist.”

“Yes, you’ve grown quite a bit, my son,” she said, and he took note of the sadness in her tone, and the way she held him all the tighter for it.

“Welcome, Lady Otual. Come, have tea with me,” The old gentleman said as he pointed to comfortable tufted chairs around a low table.

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

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

“Please, call me Agon, Jon does.” As he went about pouring a cup of tea, “And no need to feel guilt. This was the agreement from the beginning, remember? Besides, your son’s now prepared to teach all he knows of horses to his future peers.” He leaned against the railing. “Having the knights become horsemen, as well as swordsmen, will be good for all, don’t you think?”

Ma nodded and David let her usher him up the steps, her arm around his waist felt smaller since they were last together. “Right you are, Agon. Still, I hope taking him away will not be too much of a burden for you?”

“Bah, I’ve got three new apprentices who could use the extra discipline, worry not. Though I admit, it’s been a prosperous four years with David’s help.” Gorum clasped David’s shoulder and offered the cup to Ma. “He has a talent with animals. It is I who should be giving thanks.”

Ma accepted the tea, taking a small sip until a question creased her brow, “Pardon?”

Gorum continued, “In thanks, to you and Jonathan, and praise be to J’shua, I am giving the knights twenty-five horses. Please tell them to pick them up whenever they can.”

Astonished by the magistrate’s generosity at such a princely gift, his Ma faltered a bit as she sat. “Thank you, that is very—"

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

Ma chuckled and leaned forward to the small table between her and the magistrate, trading the teacup for a cake. “Well, I suppose there is no stopping you, go on.”

“And there is no forcing such ‘safety measures’ upon you, but you’re right there is no way to stop me from trying. Therefore, will you permit me to provide you with extra horses, provisions, perhaps weapons, and an escort?”

The cake devoured, his Ma sat forward once more, reclaiming her cup. She sipped her tea for a moment, her finger sliding back and forth along the rim. “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 for himself. “And the other things?”

“Let’s discuss them.”

David remained quiet, listening to them get reacquainted, smiling at the thought of traveling with his mother during the week-long trip ahead. He had dreamed of going to the Knights’ School as long as he could remember. And he had longed for his mother ever since he left home to come here four years ago. He was embarrassed when he remembered all the silent tears he’d shed those first weeks. But grown up now, he was ready for the days of training ahead.

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

“I hope you’ll never be held to that.” His Ma laughed, relaxing back in the chair. She took another sip of the fragrant tea.

David smiled as he emptied his cup—peach, pear, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Fruit and spices he doubted they’d have at the School.

Gorum spoke of the business of horse breeding, and she told of her travels.

“I met boys hiding in the woods whose parents had been arrested. They have a settlement of a sort near Caswell. Their leader is fourteen years old. Jonathan helped them.”

David’s eyes widened. “That’s near the same age as me!”

“Yes, he and his brothers met your father and he taught them how to survive. They’ve learned his lessons well, and taught them to other boys they find hiding. I’ve tried to learn tidings of their parents.”

She reached out to David, who clasped her hand, squeezing it.

“They have great heart, like you.” She gave his hand another press, “I believe good things will come from them, just as I do from you.”

His grin returned, raising his eyes to her as she acknowledged him.

Their attention returned back to Gorum who talked about this and that with his Ma well into the night.

David stared off, only hearing the rhythm of their exchanges.

Soon I will begin training, as my father did.

His mind at work, imagining hours of practicing with a sword. He promised himself he would not let anyone know that he already knew as much as he did, including the fact that he had mastered his father’s practice routines. After all, he didn’t want to be the drecksa that knew everything and showed people up.

But how do I hide what I know?

Puzzling over the best way to do that, he pictured his father helping people in need. He could hear his voice as he reasoned with the irate and comforted the downtrodden.

I will make you proud, Da.

His ma’s words began to bleed into his thoughts. They were talking about the troubles that were spreading across Freislicht. He pictured his da, hiding from soldiers and black-robes and prayed in the spirit.

Give him strength J’shua.

“Before I forget.” The magistrate’s words broke through David’s meanderings.

Gorum reached into his pouch and brought out an elegant dagger in an embossed leather sheath. “Jonathan sent this. Said David needed a knife, and it was customary for the father to provide it.”

His ma took the sheathed blade and drew it out, turning it over and testing the edge. “It’s a fine dagger.” She passed it and its sheath to David.

David stood, took it, threading it onto his belt. He then took the blade, observing it from tip to hilt. “It is a fine piece, indeed.” He slipped it back into its leather carrier, and drew his shoulders straight. “I will cherish it, and maybe, I hope, I will be able to travel with Father after I finish my training.”

“You could return here to Esthlanis after your training,” his mother suggested, “as I’m sure Master Gorum would be most appreciative of your continued help.”

David’s brows lifted, before becoming a frown. He shook his head. “No, I cannot, Ma.” He then turned to Gorum. “I mean, Master Gorum I know the offer is there and, I’m thankful for your training and guidance, sir.” He turned back to his Ma. “But I am to be a Knight of J’shua like my father, and knights do not muck stalls and hide in the homesteads of Magistrates. They do noble deeds, like finding Sarah, which I plan to do.”

 “I am sure you will.”

 “I’ve something for you, too, Rebekah.” Gorum pulled out a bundle tied with hemp twine.

She took the bundle, leafed through the letters, and sighed. “We’ve missed seeing each other over the past two years. I have heard those who hunt him are relentless. I dare not risk his well-being on desires fed by loneliness. Although hard, it is enough to know he’s well and doing J’shua’s work. Here is a letter for him, should you see him or hear of a place to send it.”

Gorum accepted the folded paper, his face solemn.

“Thank you for taking such good care of our boy.” She touched the magistrate’s hand.

David’s eyes drooped, prompting a grin from his Ma. He could hear it in her voice as she said, “I think it is time for everyone to go to bed.”

David shook his head, and blinked away sleep. “No, no. Don’t stop on my account. I’m too excited to sleep.”

Gorum laughed. “You’ve a long journey ahead. I know how badly you want to begin it. Go to your bed. We’ll talk more in the morning.”

They exchanged goodnights, and David sighed with satisfaction as his ma disappeared into the house and up the stairs. Then he headed off the porch, untied Monarch, and took his leave for his room in the stable. Some might think that a lowly place, but the rich mahogany bookcases on either side of the large fireplace made him think otherwise. Glass doors protected the equestrian reference books from dust, as well as the journals of three generations of the Gorum family’s practices. The bed was fit for a king, with a thick feather mattress and clean linens.

Readying himself for sleep, his last thought, I will miss this.

***

Morning came and the breakfast table exploded with all David’s favorites. Servants streamed in and out of the room like the bees of a hive, setting plates and cups, napkins and silverware. Steaming pancakes stacked high on a platter, sliced fruit and cheese fanned out on a wooden board, and a pitcher of goat’s milk set on the table in the grand dining room.

When Gorum entered he signaled everyone to sit. “David, come sit on my right hand.” Eikhan, who already sat one seat over from his usual place, nodded.

David gave a sheepish smile but bowed before sitting. “Sir, you honor me. Thank you.”

He knew this man better than his own father, and loved him too. After all, this man had raised him like a son. Tears crept up at the corners of his eyes, and he blinked them away. David dug into the feast before him, savoring all the delicacies that he’d surely miss while training with the Knights.

After they’d all had their fill, Gorum and his sons walked them out to the waiting horses

David took note of the three-man escort, decked out in oiled leather jerkins, swords, and bows, waiting at the head of the line. A gentle pat for his mare, and he mounted up with everyone else.

Turning back for a final farewell, he watched Magistrate Gorum give a bow, and the signal for the escort to proceed. The man who held so much importance in his life and the young men who he’d come to call brothers, waved from the porch as he and his mother rode down the drive toward the iron gate.

He waved back, before turning his eyes to the path ahead.

Wild heather grew on either side of it exploding with butterflies. They had been cute, fuzzy caterpillars, useless eaters a few days ago, stripping the leaves from every green plant. And now…

Now, they had new powers and a new perspective, flitting from flower to flower.

It’s time for me to start a new life too.

David Ch 4

They headed south to the Shining Mountains.

Three days later, the escort left them with a grunt, heading back north. He and his mother crossed the Tarin River just south of the inn.

“Aren’t we going to stay at the Tarin Inn?” He asked her as he wrung the water from the bottom of his cloak and went about checking the rest of the items in his pack.

“No, inns offer comfort, but they often harbor danger. I prefer to avoid them.” Her lip twitched as she teased, “Why, are you already missing your high station at the horse farm?”

David laughed. “I will be miss it to be sure. And the brothers. And the horses I raised from weak-legged foals.” Everything appearing dry, he began to repack his things. “But no, Ma. As I said I’m ready to move ahead, to be a knight, like Da.”

His ma nodded, but didn’t smile.

He almost asked her what was wrong. But did not. Da was being hunted, even though he’d done no harm. His little sister, Sarah, was missing and she was innocent. So, everything was wrong in the world.

Mounting back up, they carried on with their journey. After midday they turned to the west, the headed off the beaten path into dense trees. Pushing through the thick forest despite there being a respectable road for use, David asked, “Are we hiding from someone?”

“I am uncomfortable traveling in Freislicht. Soon we’ll be at a familiar place and I can change.”

“Change?”

“Be patient.” Her focus remained on finding a faint pathway through the woods. A pathway that grew narrower, as the forest became thicker and gloomier.

At first, he could not see it at all.

“Tell me of the horses you’ve raised,” she said.

With great animation, he described every horse he’d seen born or trained over his whole apprenticeship. Ma interjected sounds of approval and asked occasional questions as the journey continued.

Just before dark, Ma stopped with a finger to her lips.

They waited, still. Not moving a muscle.

Then, she let out a loud breath. “It seems safe.”

As she urged her horse forward, Dave asked again, “Where are we going?

“We must go to the place I hid after the attack.”

A few moments later, Ma dismounted and took a pack from her horse. “Start a fire, David. You’ll find the wood you need between those oaks.”

He set to the task as she disappeared into the trees, By the time he heard her again, he was feeding a small blaze.

He gasped as she walked past, his mouth agape. “Ma!”

“How do I look?” she asked.

“You-you look like … a man!” He reached out and touched her beard. “It even feels real.”

“Thank you. It’s made of my own hair. Some friends tie each hair, curl them, and then trim them. It takes many days to finish one.”

“But why …?” He frowned.

“It’s the easiest way to hide in plain sight, son.”

He watched, still not sure what to make of her appearance as she paraded by him, and back.

“The act must be flawless,” she said. “Your father is being hunted; a hefty price is on his head.”

“I know, but—”

“Those pursuing him would use me against him should they find me, coercing him to give himself up. So, I disguise myself. I’ve become 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 before you.”

 “What do you mean?” He continued to stare at her, struggling to connect the voice to the masculine image before him.

“I’m not just hiding. There is a group I work with. Over the last few years, we’ve built up a network. No one knows how large it is, or the names of everyone involved.”

“What do they want?”

“What we all want, to be free—without persecution from nobles such as the Earl of Lorness.”

David swallowed hard at hearing that name. On the Earl’s orders, the farm was burned, and his grandparents killed.

His ma continued, “What they did was wrong. What they wanted to do was wrong. They would have sold Sarah and me into slavery while unlawfully demanding payment. All while your grandparents had a contract.”

“Yes, but … You’re scaring me. It’s one thing to hide, but to work against—” He frowned, his eyes scrunching almost closed in a grimace.

“Those I work with want all to live without interference,” she said with quiet words, not wanting to alarm him more. “But that requires organization, information, and money. As Tommas Bekh,” she gestured at herself, “I can drink with men, befriend them, and fill in gaps in our knowledge of the enemy. We have learned so much, though there is still more to learn.”

She walked up to him, stroked  his hair. A sign his Ma was still there, in the flesh. “You might find you like it. We work with people from all walks of life who seek the same thing. Farmers, traders, soldiers, lesser nobles … Of course, there are the less savory folk like thieves, but they all help us. Some for coin. Some out of hatred—”

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

She took his hand. “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 your wish, or you could,” her hand squeezed his, “join me.”

David’s eyes had never left hers as she spoke, but the words he knew she wanted to hear he couldn’t say.

His Ma sighed, “Our work is slow. We cannot pursue our goals boldly. It requires caution and guile. After all, my role as Tommas is not only a cover. He’s real.”

Has she lost her mind?

His look of confusion did not escape her notice and she continued, “As him, I own enterprises I must keep profitable. I employ more people than you’d believe.”

David gasped. “You own … enterprises?”

“That’s what I said, isn’t it?”

“But I don’t know anything about running an enterprise.”

“Look, it didn’t start out that way, and it wouldn’t start out that way for you. 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.”

“Yes, I know. Do you think I’ve given up on her? Far from it. The contacts I’ve built up give me a greater chance of finding your sister. I cannot let them go. Shall not.”

Regret painted his cheeks and he swallowed the lump in his throat, looking away, “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be David. I know your pain, our pain … 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 these people, so be it. But it’s complex beyond imagining. But, bit by bit, there is progress. Well, to give you an idea, aside from a royal minister, I know far more about what is happening in Lorness and High Keep thanks to my connections.”

“That’s…astonishing.”

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

“I—I’d never have thought … that is … it’s dangerous.” David looked down, shaking his head.

“What else would you have me do? Pray all day, leaving everything in J’shua’s hands when my own hands are able, my mind clear, and my need to act undeniable. What are my alternatives?”

“I—” David wrung his hands.

“Would you have been happier had I done this spying as a woman? Would you have me 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—” Ma’s mouth quirked.

“However, what?”

“As Tommas Bekh, I receive information from the…sometimes the unlikeliest of sources. Men and women seeking to help our cause, despite their misfortunes.”

He still frowned. “That is extraordinary, Ma, 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, from this point on you are my new apprentice. I’ll teach you as we go. I have stops to make in Fairness Crossing and Lexandria before we go up the mountain. Remember, from now on I am Tommas Bekh, a very successful plow salesman.”

***

They traveled many days.

When they reached Easy Slope, they ground tethered their horses and continued on foot.

Each of the distinctive pinnacles that his father had described in his tales of the Shining Mountains came into clear view. First, he recognized the Lone Soldier to the east. It was the tallest pinnacle. As they veered west, they approached the Kiss in the early afternoon. It was made of two rocks that leaned on one another like lovers kissing.

When they arrived there, a dozen student knights trotted up, each wearing a short sword on their hip over plain homespun tunics and breeches.

One lad announced with a confident smirk, “Hallo, Mister Bekh. We saw you approaching and came to meet you.”

“Hallo, hallo, boys. This is David Otual. Make him welcome, would you?”

The knights-in-training looked at David.

“Come,” The tallest one said, “Daikon Crispus is about to teach.”

Ma waved them off and went to sit. He didn’t mean to stare, but she must have felt it, as she looked up and gave him a reassuring smile and nod.

That’s when something tugged at his sleeve. David turned again to see the student that was now pulling him, dragging him into the fray of other students.

Tall trees grasped the rocky soil with fingerlike roots. Air crisp with the scent of pine and the sounds of wildlife surrounded them. He sat with the others on fallen logs pulled into a rough semi-circle. His gaze drifted to those who accompanied him. All their faces shined with rapt attention on one man, who stroked his flowing beard, and spoke in a measured tone.

 “Today, my young scholars, we begin delving into the secrets of the Writings.” His voice carried the weight of experience. His wrinkles demonstrated the mark of years spent studying ancient texts.

This must be Crispus.

Beside him an even older man, nodded in agreement, his eyes twinkling with enthusiasm. “Indeed, we shall uncover the wisdom of the prophets.”

And him, Daikon Baxter?

He scanned the crowd. There must have been thirty boys, all clad in simple tunics and rough trousers, listening, still. Some with wide eyes and others in serious contemplation. Older boys and men in the blue-gray garb of knights stood in the back monitoring their charges. This place, far from bustling towns and castles, was where David belonged. Here, in the wilderness, he’d learn the deeper truths of their faith, leading to greater reliance upon the God of Truth.

After speaking of Paul’s understanding of the sacred secret, Crispus expounded on the life of King David, his namesake.

David was intrigued to learn all he could.

“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. Daikon Baxter outlined the history of the knights, from the First Knight’s meeting with King Weisheit almost one hundred and fifty years ago, up until now. Then Daikon Crispus explained the current arguments surrounding popular interpretations of some passages in the Writings. He explored the virtues of good discourse amongst the followers of J’shua.

Crispus looked at each one of them. “There will always be differences of opinion, given we can no longer ask these writers of long ago what they meant.”

[For there must be opinions among you, that those opinions which are approved may be made manifest among you.]

“Always remember, love must rule in our hearts, not pride or perfection.”

[Let love be without dissimulation.]

“This is the only way to walk upright with the God of Truth and His son, J’shua Ha Mashiach.”

The midday meal came and went. Afterwards his ma walked to a ledge above  to observe him and his peers complete their practice exercises.

He was thrilled.
Each fifth year was assigned three first year students to instruct in the basics. David followed their assigned leader, Jimmen, to a different area of the foothills. From where he stood, he could see six other groups.
“Step, parry, thrust. Step, parry, thrust—again,” the red-haired young man called to David and his other charges.
David blinked. Oh, right. He turned his attention back to Jimmen, nodding as he followed through with the first exercise, which was about stances and strength.
Along with him, the other boys’ foreheads creased with determination. As they held their swords tight, their master counting the rhythm.
“Rest,” the young man shouted.
Not that it was a long rest. Their next exercise involved Jimmen guiding them over many obstacles as they sprinted to Lone Soldier and back several times. David could imagine his father with his long pale blond hair running along the ledges and leaping over crevasses.
When the sun began its descent toward the horizon, signaling the end of their schooling for the day, the other boys departed for their quarters in caves, chattering about their newfound knowledge and skills.
David, on the other hand, walked to Ma, out of breath, but smiling. “Did you see me? My teacher said I did well. Do you think I did well?”
“I saw. I’m very proud of you. Your father will be proud too.” She squeezed his shoulders, looked him over in a way that made his chest swell, and said, “I know you will do well here. But I must go.” She leaned closer. “I love you, brave boy. I will return next moon.”
It felt so soon, too soon, but David didn’t want to let her down. So, he whispered, “I love you too, Ma.” He wanted to hug her, but could not. It wasn’t his mother, but Tomas Bekh, standing before him. He wouldn’t risk her cover. Only the old daikons knew who she was.
“David!”
Hearing his name being called, he glanced around. A few boys beckoned for him to follow.
He tightened his lips into a stern line as he turned back to his Ma and said, “Thank you, Mister Bekh. Be safe.” He gave her a bow, watched as she returned a nod, and retreated down the hill. Out of sight. Out of his life, again.
“David!” His new companions called again, then he ran to them forcing a grin.

David Ch 7

[Ages- Sarah 14   David 17   BH 24   J,Sg,Dr, Ga 36               37th year reign of]
David shifted on the cold rock, observing his students, three first-years.
First-years, just like he’d been five years earlier.
Now aged seventeen, David was almost a Knight of J’shua. After only one day more, he’d listen to the small still voice that guided each of them to where they were needed. For a decade, he would wander, teach, pray, and continue learning. After which, it would be time for him to found his own circle.
But he was getting ahead of himself. There was work to be done in the here and now. Just as he still had a sister to find. Sarah would be fourteen…
“Stop!” he called out. “Philip, remember your footwork.” He walked over to the lad, who had frozen in place. “Look down. Your feet are parallel to each other. If you have to dodge, your opponent could push you off balance. Keep an angle between them. Not as great as the corners of a doorframe, but close to it. That way, you can push off in any direction.”
The boy nodded, while his companions suppressed grins. It was not the first time he’d had to remind the youngster. How could it be? The three youths had been his primary focus for almost a year.
He had first put them through their paces on the Easy Slope, pointing out its crevasses and slippery ledges. Next, he’d taught them how to read the Writings, which were written in an uncommon hand when first translated hundreds of years ago.
He was proud of them. They would become second-years tomorrow and he would graduate. Then he could search for Sarah.
Again, his mind threatened to wander, vacillating between imagining her happy and playing with children in some village, or sleeping in peace, awaiting J’shua Ha Mashiach’s call. He refused to think of any other alternatives.
“Again,” he called to his charges.
The three boys rolled their eyes and groaned, but began again.
“Step, parry, thrust. Step, parry, thrust,”
Was I this annoying at their age? Probably so.
“Philip, take a bigger step. It does no good 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 Easy Slope. On the seventh lap, as they came from behind the last rock formation, 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. It was three weeks old and vague, as usual. His father was very careful about sending letters, using several couriers.
Dear son,
God bless you in the name of J’shua Ha Mashiach. By God’s grace and his son’s sacrifice, I am whole. He has given me a plenteous bounty and warm nights of sleep. I have seen vultures, but no biting insects have taken hold of me. I am surrounded by goodness and walk the path he sets before me.
I am proud of you and long to walk north with you soon. The clans greet you. Many towns and villages will welcome you. Stand in the Writings, as I know you will.
In the light of J’shua,
Father
Focusing on the words and phrases, he decoded his father’s message. I am whole—he was healthy and unharmed. Plenteous bounty and warm nights of sleep—he hasn’t gone hungry and has shelter. Vultures—bounty hunters or soldiers have tracked him, but—he’s evaded them. The ‘clans’ represent Mestelina, ‘greet you’ means he’s already been there, and ‘towns and villages’ mean Tarinland, while ‘welcome’ means he’s going there. Walk north with you means he’s going to Esthlanis after that.
He might be below me in the forest right now, on his way east from Mestelina. He sighed.
Tommas Bekh came to the mountain every few moons, bringing supplies to the Knights’ School and sometimes new students. His mother still dressed as a man. She had not ferreted out what happened to Sarah, although she bore it with grace, remaining focused on her work, most of the time.
She’d reminded him again that he would be out in the world soon and must use wisdom when he chose a wife. He chuckled. He 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 of his fellows would accompany him.
His boys came out from behind Lone Soldier on their final lap. They no longer laughed, but they still kept a good pace and they’d stayed together as they were taught.
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.
“Are you excited about graduation tomorrow?” Philip asked, as he hunched over, catching 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. He was the first to trade with the Mestels, when there were no roads in the west.”
“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.”
No one said anything for a moment, then, Barden—the quiet one—said, “Do you know where you’ll be sent?”
David beamed, stood, brushing off his breeches. “Mestelina. I’m going to stop a war.”

David Ch 23

David Otual had re-entered Freislicht from Mestelina near South Fort. He had been there for several moons, then met up with his fiancé who was working on the border for a week. They planned to marry soon.
As he moved eastward toward Lexandria, he began catching up on the news of what had occurred during his time away. For the most part, it was gossip. This noble, upstart or ne’er-do-well had eloped with that nobleman’s daughter. Farms and outlying settlements had been raided, crops burned and people killed by the Mestels. Bandit attacks were on the rise, and becoming so brazen they had attacked small merchant caravans. All of it was just variations on stories he had heard before, only more exaggerated.
Even though travelling alone, no one attacked him. Thus, he had no idea if the talk was true, or if the thieves were unwilling to attack a Knight of J’shua.
When he was in the outskirts of Lexandria, he heard a new rumor. Highwaymen had become so bold they had attacked a nobleman’s carriage. The details were sketchy and, no doubt, had grown ever more dire with the retelling. Yet, it was when he heard the words, “…it carried Caswell’s crest plain as day on its side…” that his ears pricked up.
Beckoning the barmaid over, he asked, “What’s this about a Caswell carriage?”
“Never mind them. They’ve been telling that story for weeks. It seems they’ve a dislike for the Caswells, so that tale gets told every night once they’re drunk enough. Each challenging the other with ever more gory details.”
“What happened?”
“Little is known for sure. It is said the a Caswell carriage was waylaid on its return from Lorness. The supply wagons travelling with it, supposedly, got stuck. Some say they were bribed to lag behind.” She nodded at the men still exchanging gruesome aspects of the assault. “The guards who should have been escorting the countess stayed to help the waggoneers. Or, perhaps, they were ordered to do so. Who knows? In any case, almost in sight of Caswell, the carriage was forced to stop by a downed tree. A group of brazen highwaymen – a dozen or more, it is said – emerged, killed the driver, his apprentice and the luggage boy. Then they… had their way… with the women inside the carriage, including the noblewoman.”
“Did she live?”
“Some say yes. Most,” she nodded at the loud bunch of drunkards again, “say no. Some have even said she was taken to Lorness, so witches with strange knowledge could save her life, at the cost of her unborn’s… and all her future children.” She shuddered. “Perhaps I should not have told you that last part, but it is whispered by the old women who understand the feminine mysteries. Women I’ll not cross by gainsaying them.”
“Thank you.” He tipped her for the information and considered approaching the rowdy men. But their voices carried well enough to catch most of what they were saying. It was too late to travel further, so he sat, ate and drank. As he did so, a pit opened within his stomach. If only a tenth of what he heard was vaguely accurate, his ‘trusted uncle’, Drake Caswell, was in despair over his wife’s condition. Whatever that turned out to be.
It was a long-standing tradition amongst the knights that everyone have family support. In the case of a new knight that had no brothers, at graduation a brother knight would bond to him as a brother in a solemn ceremony so that all his offspring would have an honorary uncle to guide them should anything happen to their father. Upon graduation Drake became the honored brother of David’s father, Jonathan Otual, and honored uncle to David upon his birth.
Drake took his oath very seriously and bid his father travel with him on many missions as knights. David had been there several times and could remember his last visit to Caswell when his father took him to Esthlanis to the Gorum horse farm. He had fond memories of Uncle Drake.
Early the following morning, he made his way to the markets. He had enough baden to buy provisions, so did so. He did not want to have to hunt along the way. Caswell was northwest through thick forests that were, according to rumor, home to gangs of bandits, thieves and feral boys.
The weather was kind, thank J’shua, and he made good time.
No one interfered with him, although he was aware of others paralleling him for a time. However, flicking back his cloak so the sword worn at his waist was obvious caused them to depart soon afterward.
The day he arrived at Caswell, the heavens opened and rain torrented down. Even with his hood raised and his cloak wrapped tightly around him, David was soon drenched.
The guard at the entrance to Caswell Castle barred his entry. “Off with you, we have no place for travelers who would sop up the Earl’s generosity.”
“I am David Otual, Drake Caswell’s nephew. Please let him know I am in the city and would see him. Is there an inn nearby where I can get warm? This place has grown since my last visit.”
“Off with you!” the guard repeated.
“Hold,” another intervened. “Did you say Otual? Like the outlaw with the Mestels?”
“The person accused of that is Jonathan Otual. I am David Otual.”
“You could be a relative,” the second voice suggested.
“He is,” a third voice intervened, walking up behind the second guard, and slamming his head into a stone wall. “David, it has been too long,” the grey-bearded Captain of the Guard added. “Come inside.”
The first guard snapped to attention and moved out of the way.
David walked past.
The captain instructed the first guard, while gazing down at the second, “Strip him of his uniform and throw him out into the rain. I have warned that fool for the last time.”
“But he is related to—”
“He is not of Caswell. He was brought in from Lorness, but has made trouble since the day he arrived. Let him return there. He has no further place amongst the guard, not while I am its captain. And, while you are moving him, do not be gentle. Remember what he did to…”
The first guard’s face lit up with a nasty smile. “If I might have leave to summon assistance, we shall see he is driven beyond Caswell’s borders. Should be fall prey to bandits, that would be too bad.”
“Yes, wouldn’t it just?” the captain agreed with a smile. “Bring others to take over your post.” Then he turned back to David. “We have had trouble in recent weeks. Have you heard about the Drake’s wife?”
“I have heard a dozen different tales. All of which claim to be true.”
“Step into the guard’s room. There,” the captain pointed, “get warm. Once replacements have arrived, we shall talk.”
David entered the indicated room. Its fire warmed him, even through his cloak. Shrugging it off, he dumped it on the drying rack, then proceeded to get out of his sodden clothing. Sadly, everything in his pack was soaked too. But there were furs and other garments laying around, so he donned them and settled before the fire. Above it was a stew pot, so he served himself a bowl and ate.
Sometime later, the Captain of the Guard woke David, who had been lulled to sleep by the fire’s warmth. “Your clothes are dry. I have informed the Drake of your arrival. He is busy at present, but suggests you get warm and dry, then asks you to join him for dinner.”
“How is he?”
“He dines alone too often, and drinks too much. You being here will be good for him.”
“And his wife?” David asked.
“In Lorness, still recovering. It is whispered that she was violated. It is known she nearly died, and would have if the luggage boy had not run for help.”
“I heard he’d been killed.”
“Both drivers were. Her two lady’s maids were forced to watch as… I led the guards that went to their rescue. I sent my best trackers after the culprits. Despite the rumors, there were only two, maybe three. The fools left a trail behind them that a blindman could have followed as they took the carriage’s six horses. We recovered them in the first hamlet we came to, arrested the man who had bought them, then strung him up in its square. He still had the horses in his possession, so there was no doubt of his guilt.
“Nor were the locals upset. His wicked ways were known to many, but none had been able to prove he was a horse thief and worse.
“Another rogue had bought the countess’ jewelry. He was arrested and interrogated, providing very good descriptions before he succumbed to his wounds.
“As for the woman who bought the countess’ and her maids’ clothes, the last time I enquired she was still “helping the investigation” in some dungeon.’
“Clothes?” David asked.
“Surely, you heard all three women were found naked?”
“I dismissed it as exaggeration.”
“It was not. The younger of the two assailants – the one who did the raping – intended to enjoy all three women, but his partner dragged him away. A pity. If he had, uh, enjoyed even one of the maids, we would have caught him. As it is, those woods have been scoured of bandits and thieves.”
“And the tales of boys living rough out there?”
“True, but they do not harm anyone. And they have driven bandits into our ambushes, so we ignore them.”
“It’s good that there is some good news,” David responded.
“It’s what the earl lacks most. This has been a bleak hard time for him, even his faith wavers. Not so most would see, but I have served his family all my life. Indeed, once the  attackers are brought to justice, he has asked me to hand over my post to a younger man. I am too old to chase bandits across the countryside for days on end. Instead, he wants be to become one of his advisors. I have accepted.”
“More excellent news, and I have some of my own.” David smiled. “I am getting married in the next few months. She has accepted and her father has given consent.”
“Tell the Drake. That will lighten his mood enormously. Have you decided when and where the marriage feast will be held?”
“In Caswell!” Drake announced from the doorway. “You are my nephew. You must let me do this for you, and for all Caswell. We all need some good news. What better is there than the joining of two people together?”
“Uncle,” David began, only to be cut off by the Captain of the Guard.
“That is a magnificent idea. A proper wedding feast that everyone, highborn and low, can participate in.”
“But Cynthia and I had intended—” again, David got cut off.
“To hold the ceremony in some barn or field?” Drake dismissed the idea. “That will not do at all. No, it shall be held here in Caswell. It might even help Parynna’s recovery if she had something glorious to prepare. She is so good at the shiny things.”
“Uncle, I could not possibly—”
“Afford it? You shall not. It shall be my wedding present to you both. Surely, you would not deny your godfather such a boon, such an endeavor to lift my spirits and those of all Caswell? Of course not. Who are the girl’s parents? Where are they to be found? I shall write to them immediately.”
“They are missionaries who—”
“Who would prefer such profligate spending not be wasted on a single day’s extravagance? I understand. Thus, for every baden spent on your wedding, I shall donate two to their cause. Did J’shua not say to put others’ needs before thine own? And, in this way, I shall.”
“I do not think they shall accept your largesse, uncle,” David offered, hoping to find a way to nix this idea. All he and Cynthia wanted was a small wedding.
“But it shall not be my largesse. Mine is the largest circle in Freislicht. While I shall contribute to the wedding, it is they who will arrange and co-ordinate everything. What’s more, our circle has been looking for noble causes to support. Due to its size, we have almost an embarrassment of riches. Sharing them will bring J’shua’s blessings to all.”
David smiled. Cynthia had whispered to him of her dreams of being wed in a castle. She knew how unlikely it was, but only hoped to have the ceremony conducted within its walls, within an established circle. Caswell was all those things. It was more. And its circle wanted to support her parents’ work. Efforts that could desperately use more funding.
“I shall have to discuss it with my bride-to-be—”
“Then it is settled,” Drake declared, hugging his nephew.
“Of course, uncle,” David replied. How could he take such joy away from a man so in need of it.
“There is one potential hitch,” Drake’s brow furrowed. “No, it is easily fixed.”
“What—”
“There are those who think your father involved with the Mestels attacking across the border. It is, of course, nonsense. However, there is no need to risk spoiling you and your bride’s special day. We shall hold the wedding on the first day of the Royal Annual Hunt. In that way, all eyes will be focused on Farr Castle, none on Caswell.”
David just nodded. They had not set a date, let alone a location. Now, he had both. Plus, funding for her parents’ efforts, and the raising of the spirits of his uncle and an entire town. All dependent on his agreement. Therefore, the only answer was, “Yes, uncle.”