Marshal Martin Derringer climbed into the saddle as he watched the buildings of the estate burn. He began the previous night, setting fire to each building individually after examining it for clues about the Mandrake family. There was a son, but as he found in a diary, he and the father had a falling out. Perhaps he would not have to worry about young Patrick. But he would keep his ears open for any word. As the fires lapped hungrily at the wood of the estate, Derringer steered his horse toward the gates. Fire spread to the trees that surrounded the estate grounds, consuming the once lavish of places into an all purifying fire. An honest end to a dishonest place.
The threat was dealt with, but Derringer had other things he needed to take care of. As the horse leisurely walked down the road, the rider knew he had to make contact with Pania. Fortunately, he believed he could. But not now, now he needed sleep. He had a long journey ahead of him. In more than one manner of speaking.
*****
Shani Wennemein held fast to Pania’s arm, and propped her up against her frame as they walked through the snow covered forest. She did everything to ensure that the elven bard would remain awake. Bad stories, jokes, even an off key song or two. “C… c’mon girly g..girl,” she stuttered slightly as she shook Pania. The action forced them both to the ground, as Shani cradled Pania in her lap. “I… I ain’t gonna lose you now.”
Pania opened her eyes just a bit and smiled. “Ye stuttered,” she said quietly and coughed just a bit. “I now r’member where I’ve seen ye b’fore.” Shani nodded as she listened to the elven bard speak, trying desperately to hold back any tears. “Brockton. We ‘ad tea t’gether a few times. Ye wanted a library.”
Shani laughed as her tears began to flow. She replied with a nod, then spoke with a cracked voice. “An’… y.. ya wanted ta marry a princess.”
Pania laughed until it hurt, then coughed before speaking again. “Times change, dunna they. Promise me somethin’, Shani.” The elven gunslinger nodded as she listened to Pania. “Make sure I get ‘ome, alrigh’.”
“Don’t talk like thet,” Shani said as her lip started to quiver slightly. “Yer gonna walk back inta yer folks place on yer own two feet, I guarantee it. You’ll see,” she said as he voice trailed a bit. “…we’ll both git home safe an’ sound…”
The conclusion… Eternity
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