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Ooh…we’re getting to see a little bit of Leon’s past!
So wait, are the only people at that place students? I don’t see much mention of villagers during that winter season. If there were villagers, did they move into the University as well?
Is their inn connected to the University? Because in that deep of snow… amid a blizzard, it wouldn’t be a great idea to cross over streets to get inside another building.
"He who never quotes will never be quoted." ~Charles Spurgeon
Ooh…we’re getting to see a little bit of Leon’s past!
YES!
Any thoughts on that?
No, they moved into the University for the winter. I mentioned it at one point, but you may have missed it. 😉
No half-heartedness and no worldly fear must turn us aside from following the light unflinchingly.
@hybridlore @linus-smallprint @koshka @keilah-h @elishavet-pidyon @liberty
NEXT SECTION!!!
“Oh, it is good to be back!” Rolf exclaimed as he reclined with the others about the fire.
“How is your village?” Johannes asked as he leaned forward to stoke the blaze.
“It is doing well. The winter was a hard one and took some of the livestock, but no one died and there is enough food to last until more can be grown,” Rolf replied. “All in all, it was not a terrible winter.”
“We read the Scriptures both day and night, and we never got tired of it,” Roland added. “It was a wonderful way to pass the time, and we made several more copies and passed them out among those in the village.”
“How was the family?” Leon asked.
“Father, Ernst, and Liesl are doing well,” Rolf replied.
Roland nodded, and Julian guessed that he had not seen his own family and had accepted Rolf’s as his own now.
Leon smiled. “Well, I am glad your winter was not tedious or dull.”
“How could it be with Roland and Liesl’s laughter and chatter all winter long,” Rolf grinned.
Roland reddened and ducked his head. “It was Ernst too,” he muttered.
“He even brought her the very first flowers of the year,” Rolf continued, completely ignoring his friend.
“She is a girl!” Roland exclaimed. “And she is kind, and gentle, and sweet, and––” he broke off abruptly and got even redder.
Rolf laughed. “It was very sweet of him.”
“She is a girl!” Roland persisted.
“Oh yes,” Rolf grinned.
“Well, who was I supposed to give the spring flowers to? You?” Roland demanded.
“What if I said yes? Would you give them to me?” Rolf teased.
Roland glared at him. “No!”
At this the rest, who had successfully held back grins while the conversation went on, burst out laughing. Rolf slapped his friend on the back. “I’ll be glad to see something come of it, and Father gave me leave to say that, so I know you’ve spoken to him.”
Roland flushed again and then laughed. “Well, so I have. He told me that I have his full blessing concerning Liesl. I told him when this is over, I’ll come back for her. He told me he has a feeling she’ll be waiting.”
“And did he allow you to speak to her?” Rolf asked, eagerly.
Roland smiled and nodded.
Rolf leaned forward in excitement. “What did you say?”
Roland flushed again. “Well, a few things. The important thing is, I asked her to wait for me.”
Rolf’s eyes widened slightly. “And?”
“And she said she would.”
The others whooped congratulations and slapped him on the back and shoulders.
“I’ve been hoping this would happen!” Rolf exclaimed.
“Well,” Roland said, as the noise settled down. “When do we leave for Wiedlisbourg?”
“We were thinking in one week’s time,” Leon replied.
Roland nodded. “Very well then. I, for one, am ready to go to bed. Tomorrow we can begin planning and gathering the supplies we’ll need.”
***
The week passed faster than they could have imagined, and it seemed barely any time before the five were ready to set out for the town of Wiedlisbourg.
It was hard to say farewell, especial to Johannes and Heinrich who had truly become dear brothers to them. But the farewells were said in the faith that they would meet again one day, in this life or the next.
It was still early in the morning when they lost sight of the town and were well and truly alone on the long road. The mud was ankle deep, but the sun was warm, and everyone was grateful to be out in the fresh air. As Julian wound his scarf about his neck, he couldn’t help but think of the kind, sisterly hands that had made it for him, and that made him think of Joseph, Beric, and Mercy. He wondered what they were doing and if they were thinking of him and Leon. He was sure they were praying for them and would continue to do so until the day they died.
As the sun set that evening, much of the warmth went with it, and the five were grateful to settle in for the night when they found shelter in a small pine forest. Using the two hatchets that they had brought, they cut branches from the trees to lay on the muddy ground as mattresses. Aelic was able to find enough dry wood to start a fire, and the companions crouched about it and cooked a stew from some of the provisions they had packed and clear water from a mountain stream.
After eating, they sang a hymn and prayed together before lying down to sleep.
The next morning, they woke freezing cold and decided through chattering teeth that the next night they would take turns keeping the fire going. Once the fire was lit and a hot breakfast was eaten, everyone felt much better. They refilled their canteens in the stream and shouldered their packs to begin the journey.
The next two days passed in this rhythm and with them passed the miles of the road. At last, one late afternoon, they came in sight of Wiedlisbourg.
The town was large and sprawled over a wide section of flat plains. A wall surrounded it, but more for the protection from wind, driving snow, and wild animals then in defense against an attack. The gates were wide open, and people could be seen moving in and out of them.
Leon turned to his companions. “Will someone offer a prayer for us?”
“I will,” Rolf said. The five gathered together and bowed their heads as Rolf prayed. “Father God, we are about to set foot in a town mired deep in sin and idolatry. Protect us as we enter such darkness and evil. Shine Your light through us. May Your will be done and may whatever happens be for Your glory alone. Amen.”
The five young men walked along the road and through the gates of the town. They went unchallenged and no one seemed to even notice their existence. They followed the main flow of people and came to the center of a wide market.
Here, to their dismay they came face to face with the slave auctions.
The main thoroughfare was crowded with people from all over the region who had spilled from the packed market square. The traders and their slaves were sectioned off in holding areas, each trader awaiting his turn for the auctioneer to sell his wares of stolen lives. The governor of the town received a fee from each sale for organizing the trade and keeping things orderly with his soldiers, who also denied any trade without the proper taxes and fees. The priest received a fee for seeking the will of the gods and their blessing in the market as well as selling charms to superstitious traders who wanted good luck for that day’s auction.
Their dominance was efficient and rewarded both the slave traders and those who ruled the town.
The fate of the slaves varied greatly. The women and girls became household servants and handmaids, and the men and young boys worked in the fields and shops. But the strong young men and older boys were all set aside for the games.
Leon spotted the unfortunate youths sitting on the ground, their hands bound behind their backs and their heads hung low. They knew their fate all too well. They were destined to kill one another until they were killed, and all for the amusement of the people.
Leon bit his lip until he tasted blood. He felt desperate, and he didn’t know what to do.
A youth of about thirteen was grabbed by one of the traders and roughly hauled to the platform. The boy twisted and pulled but was stuck a cruel blow that winded him. He was shoved up the steps and the auctioneer grabbed his arm, yanking him so that he stumbled dangerously. The boy jerked himself upright and glared furiously at the crowd. The pain and suffering in his eyes cut Julian deeply, and he looked at Leon.
Leon gave a slight shake of his head. There was nothing they could do.
The auctioneer was yelling to the people. “Here’s a fine lad for you! Too young to fight in the games, but that is to your advantage. You are practically cheating me out of a good fighter just because he’s a little too young! I will be very sorry to lose him. Look at the muscles he has!” The auctioneer grabbed the boy’s arm and yanked him so that the crowd could see. Then he took hold of the youth’s shirt and ripped it down the front, displaying his chest and shoulders.
The boy’s head was turned slightly to the side and he no longer glared at the crowd. He had accepted his fate, and his eyes held a blank stare. He did not resist or even seem to care as the man yanked him and twisted him this way and that so the crowd could look him over.
Roland’s fists clenched tightly at his sides and Rolf had looked away. Aelic stood quite still, his eyes flashing and his hand clenching and unclenching the hilt of his knife.
“A strong one, he is,” the auctioneer was saying. “He has a good back, broad shoulders, and is submissive enough after the first lash or two.”
The crowd laughed harshly.
Leon put his hands over his face, unable to stand it. He tried to turn and leave but the press of the crowd was too thick around him. He looked back at the platform, a sickening feeling stirring inside of him. He had to get out. he had to get away!
“Where can I start the bidding?” the auctioneer asked. “Do I hear ten in silver?”
One of the men raised a hand and the bidding began.
At that moment, Leon moved.
Julian was startled, and he stepped aside as Leon shoved his way through the crowd and came to a stop in the open space before the platform.
The auctioneer raised an eyebrow. “Are you making a bid?”
Leon looked up at the boy and then turned to face the crowd. “People of Wiedlisbourg, I am a former Lieutenant in the imperial army.”
The crowd hushed, interested in what was about to happen.
Leon took a deep breath and then plunged in. “What you are doing here is wrong!”
As voices of surprise sounded throughout the crowd, Leon leapt up onto the platform and called out to the people. “What gives you the right to consider yourselves more worthy than any of the slaves here? Is it your wealth? Is it your might?” Leon turned. “I challenge any one of you to a duel, but If I defeat you, then you are my salve! Does that sound right? ”
The crowd murmured in anger.
“Then why is it good when you are the ones doing the buying and selling?”
There was no answer.
“What if I had an army outside this town, and I brought it crashing down on you. Could I take all of you as slaves and rule you as a master, selling whom I choose, killing whom I chose, and forcing others to kill each other for my own pleasure? Is this right?”
Leon spun to the auctioneer. “What gives you the right to sell people, and not yourself be sold?”
The auctioneer took a slight step back, and Leon swung around on the people again. “I have been in this town before. I know your ways, and I often took part in them. I was a Lieutenant, yes, but before that I was even more.” Leon took in a breath. “I am Leon Fischer, a former Champion of the gods.”
The place fell completely silent and everyone froze.
Julian was watching Leon in shock. He had rushed into this seemingly without a thought, and the Julian was as stunned as the people around him.
Leon was scrambling for words. He had spoken faster than his thoughts could keep up with, and he was trapped. There was no escape from this now.
All at once, a thought came to him. Leon straightened. “Many of you know my name, but thousands in the Empire knew me as the mysterious White Knight.”
There was a cry of shock from the crowd startled Julian, and the next moment voices had risen in excitement.
“Go tell the governor the White Knight had returned!” someone exclaimed.
“Call the priests!” another shouted.
“The gods have sent good fortune upon us!”
“Do whatever the White Knight says,” a guard ordered. “If the White Knights says let the slaves go, then let them go!”
The people shouted their agreement.
Leon raised his hands. “Wait!” he shouted.
Instant silence fell.
Leon took in several breaths. He had started this completely wrong, and for a moment it looked as though he was going to save it, but now things were getting out of hand once more. Lord, show me what to do! He pleaded.
Leon looked at the people. “I was the White Knight, yes. I was a Champion of the gods… but then something changed.”
The silence was so strong it hurt.
Leon darted a glance to Julian. his friend looked completely shocked, but he gave Leon a nod. Leon let his eyes return to the people, and suddenly he found the words coming easily. “I found a God who was not just worth fighting in honor of, but a God worth dying for. A God who needed no mortal to champion Him. A God who needs nothing from us, yet He died so that we might be brought back to him from sin a rebellion.”
Whispers rippled through the crowd, but they were instantly hushed.
Leon continued. “This God is the one true God, and He created this world. He created each and every one of you. He fashioned you with His own hands and breathed into each of you the breath of life. He formed you and made you special and individual. How dare we sell and buy one another, for we are all equal in God’s eyes. He made each of us in His own image for His glory! He is perfect and holy and blameless, and He created us to be the same. However, we turned and sinned and we disobeyed Him. Sin and death and evil entered the world, for the price of sin is death.”
Leon looked at the faces turned towards him. “We are all slaves. Slaves to sin and death, and there was no escape. He motioned toward the slave traders and their prisoners. “We are all bound in chains and there was no way to get free. We cannot save ourselves, just as they can’t rescue themselves. Then, God sent His only begotten Son to live among us, fully God and fully man. He lived a perfect sinless life, and He died, the perfect sacrifice, taking away the sins of the world! He redeemed us! He bought our freedom with His blood, and we can now shake off these chains and step free. If any of you call upon the Name of Jesus Christ, confess your sins, and believe in Him, you shall be saved!”
Leon paused and let out a slow breath. He was still a little stunned that he had acted so quickly. But now, looking at the people, he knew what to do. Turning to the auctioneer he pulled out a leather bag of coins from his satchel and handed them over. The startled man took them, and Leon reached for the slave boy’s arm and pulled him away from the auctioneer. Drawing his knife, he cut through the ropes that bound the youth’s wrists. Then he laid both hands on the boy’s shoulders. “In Christ’s name, I have bought your freedom, but He alone can give you true freedom. Just as I have set you free from physical slavery, He has set you free from eternal bondage.”
The boy looked up, and Leon could see the shock on his face.
“You are free,” Leon said. He took off his own cloak and draped it over the boy’s shoulders. “Go in peace.”
The boy looked at Leon for a long moment. Then he turned and walked slowly and cautiously to the edge of the platform. He paused and looked back. Leon gave him a nod, and the boy jumped down and slipped into the crowd.
There was a long, long moment of complete silence and no one dared to move. At last, Leon turned toward the people. “Let them go. I plead with you to let the slaves go free.”
One of the guards stepped forward. “The White Knight has spoken. Do as he says.”
Several young men in the crowd and one or two soldiers turned to the trader standing over those who had been set aside for the games. A young man handed him a bag of coins and pointed to the gates. “Get out, and never come back,” he commanded.
“But this is not nearly enough!” the man cried.
“Be glad you are getting anything,” one of the soldiers growled. “If you don’t get out now, you’ll get more than that. You’ll get a taste of my blade.”
The trader hastily retreated, but not before turning a killing glare on Leon.
Leon watched as the market was cleared by the soldiers. Several people protested, but most were willing to do anything that he said. After all, he was the White Knight.
Leon slowly shook his head. It may have been enough for the moment, but the novelty of his return would wear off, especially if he resisted their admiration and celebrations. And when it did, what would happen?
No half-heartedness and no worldly fear must turn us aside from following the light unflinchingly.
and Leon takes the plunge.
No half-heartedness and no worldly fear must turn us aside from following the light unflinchingly.
Leon!!!! Yes!!!
Great section. He must have been really famous…
I want them to meet up with the boy he set free. 🥺
"Don't shine so that others can see you. Shine so that through you, others can see Him." ~ C. S.
Leon!!!! Yes!!!
I’m guessing this means you’re happy with what he did?
lolol
Great section. He must have been really famous…
Oh he was. You see, he was the White Knight, and the White Knight –––––––––––––––––––––––
So yeah, that would explain it.
No half-heartedness and no worldly fear must turn us aside from following the light unflinchingly.
Yes. I just hope it doesn’t lead to bad stuff for them.
I think you’re enjoying the suspense way too much. 🤔🙄
"Don't shine so that others can see you. Shine so that through you, others can see Him." ~ C. S.
Hmmm. No promises.
Really out of character for him too! lololol.
I think you’re enjoying the suspense way too much. 🤔🙄
Oh 100%.
Especially since I know something you don’t………….
No half-heartedness and no worldly fear must turn us aside from following the light unflinchingly.
I know!! That is such a Julian thing to do, right!
Ugh 😂
"Don't shine so that others can see you. Shine so that through you, others can see Him." ~ C. S.
i know right!
No half-heartedness and no worldly fear must turn us aside from following the light unflinchingly.
hybridlore
Julian’s like “okay dude, this one’s all yours man. All yours.”
😂😂😂
No half-heartedness and no worldly fear must turn us aside from following the light unflinchingly.
Any thoughts on that?
Hmm…well, I was a tad bit surprised by how sharp Leon was with Julian. I don’t know their past friendship well…but I wasn’t expecting Leon to react to Julian like that…like just closing the conversation. I thought he seemed to be a very open character, especially as a Christian…but maybe some things from the past still hurt too much for him…
How do you take it?
"He who never quotes will never be quoted." ~Charles Spurgeon
They’re relationship is pretty solid. But there are some things that Leon really doesn’t want to talk about. (there are things that have happened to me that I don’t like to talk about unless i really, really trust the person) and I know Leon and Julian trust one another a lot, but talking about some things can be really hard. and it can be even more so if they are things that you haven’t talked about for years and years. Ya know?
I don’t think Julian was expecting it either, honestly. XD
Did you see the new section?
No half-heartedness and no worldly fear must turn us aside from following the light unflinchingly.
@hybridlore @linus-smallprint @koshka @keilah-h @elishavet-pidyon @liberty
NEXT SECTION!!!
Leon, Julian, and the others were finally able to escape the crowd and Leon retreated to the inn at once. He hurried up the stairs and into the room Julian shared with him.
Julian took the stairs two at a time and crashed through the door. “The White Knight?” he fairly shouted.
Leon sat down on the edge of the bed with his back to Julian. “I was hoping it wouldn’t come to that. I didn’t want to… everything just got out of hand, and I had to do something.”
Julian came around to face him. “You really were the White knight?”
Leon nodded miserably.
For once Julian didn’t know what to say. At last, he found his voice. “Leon! How on earth?”
Leon rubbed a hand over his face. “I had connection, I was a skilled swordsman…” he trailed off.
“But this is amazing! I lived far out on the boarder and even our town knew when the White Knight began rising. You were the talk of the Empire for almost three years!”
“You don’t have to tell me that,” Leon snapped.
Julian looked at him strangely. “What’s wrong?”
Leon got to his feet and walked toward the window. He looked out and then quickly pulled back with a shudder. “They’re all out there,” he muttered.
“Well, I would be too,” Julian rejoined. “You were the White Knight!”
“I was a boy!” Leon yelled. “A foolish, wild, fatherless boy.” He shook his head. “My actions cost people their lives. They… they cost me everything. And now I have to face them all over again.”
Julian stepped toward him and laid a hand on his friend’s shoulder. “What happened? Why did you disappear after three years of running glory?”
Before Leon could reply, the door burst open. “Leon, they want you,” Roland said.
“Tell them to leave me alone,” Leon retorted.
Roland darted a glance toward Julian and then looked back at Leon. “They want to hear you speak again.”
Leon turned away.
Julian looked toward his friend. “Leon, this is what we need. We thought we’d have to work for a few people to even listen, but now you have the whole town clamoring to hear you.”
“You talk to them. You’re far better at it then I am,” Leon returned.
Julian raised an eyebrow. “I think that’s about the first time you have ever admitted I was better at you than something.”
Leon smirked. He rubbed his hands over his face and let out a long breath.
Julian grew serious. “Leon, I think God is using whatever happened in your past to spread His word. You have power here. Use that for God.”
Leon looked up. “You’re right, Julian.” He let out another deep breath. “I’m sorry for speaking that way to you.”
Julian nodded. “I probably wasn’t very helpful when I came in here demanding answers.” He paused a moment and then continued. “You don’t have to tell me what happened.”
Leon smiled gratefully. “I’ll tell you. But maybe not until things calm down.”
Julian nodded and turned to Roland. “Tell them Leon is getting something to eat, and they need to go away and wait for him in the square.”
Roland nodded and hurried from the room.
“There, I bought you a moment to breathe. Now do what you need to and then let’s get back out there,” Julian said.
***
The shocking turn of events was only the beginning of the work the five young men had to continue for two weeks. They spoke of Christ, and of redemption and salvation. They spoke against the gods, and they spoke against the slave-trade. At first the crowd only listened if Leon was speaking. But soon they turned their attention to the young men with him.
Very slowly, things began to change. Several of the people began coming to them with open hearts and honest questions. It seemed as though they were making headway beyond the novelty of Leon’s return.
Then, one morning, a soldier came to the inn where the companions were staying. He found them talking over breakfast.
Leon rose when he saw him. “Good morning, will you join us?”
“I have a message for you,” the soldier replied. “The governor wishes to speak to you, Leon.”
For a moment no one said anything. Then, Leon nodded. “When?”
“As soon as you are able. I am to wait here and take you back with me,” the soldier replied.
Leon glanced toward Julian and then back at the soldier. “Give me a few moments, please.” He turned to his companions. “Will you pray with me before I go?”
The others rose and gathered about Leon, placing their hands on his shoulders and back. The soldier stood to the side and watched them pray together for a few moments. Then they looked up.
Leon grasped Julian’s hand, and his friend gave him a nod. Then Leon turned and walked over to the soldier. “I am ready.”
The soldier nodded and the two left the room.
Julian stood at the window and watched them walk down the street. “Father, protect him,” he whispered.
***
During the walk to the Governor’s house, Leon prayed silently, preparing himself for whatever was to come. He wondered what to expect and what lay ahead. He hadn’t exactly been arrested, but perhaps the Governor didn’t want to cause a scene by arresting the fabled White Knight.
They arrived at the large house and climbed the steps. They were ushered in by a servant and Leon was lead through a long hall to a room. “Wait here,” the servant said, and then turned and walked away.
Leon looked to the soldier, but he was standing guard at the door and wouldn’t make eye contact.
Leon stood very still in the center of the room and tried to fight his unease down. God, You know what’s going to happen. Give me strength and courage and speak through me. Help me to stand for what’s right, no matter what it may cost. May Your will be done.
After a moment, Leon turned and walked to the side of the room. slowly he began to walk the perimeter. He knew this room very well. Leon let out a slow breath and closed his eyes. He could almost feel the slender arm locked with his, and he heard the sweet, musical laughter at his side. Leon blinked away tears and looked up at the wall. He stopped short. There was a painting above him, depicting a knight and a lady seated on a bench in a moonlit garden. In the lighting, the silver armor the warrior wore looked white. He stood there for several minutes, just as they had often stood and stared at this picture together. She always created stories for each painting.
She had created a story for him.
Steps sounded and Leon turned. The Governor was at the door, his servant trailing behind. He was a strong, broad-shouldered man, and had the look of one who had been a warrior in his youth. He was dressed in fine clothing, though it was practical enough and didn’t have the frilly nonsense high ranking people tended to add to clothing. He took Leon in with one sweeping look. Leon dipped his head in a gesture of respect. “Governor.”
“And you are Leon?” the Governor asked.
“Yes sir, Leon Fischer.”
The Governor motioned to where two low couches were arranged facing each other, with a small table between them. “Come, sit with me.”
Leon followed, wondering what on earth was about to happen. The Governor sat on one of the couches and motioned to the other one. Leon took a seat. “Refreshments?” the governor asked.
“No, no thank you,” Leon replied, trying to force the nervousness out of his voice.
The Governor nodded to his servant, and the man left the room, closing the door behind him. Leon glanced up and saw there were now two guards standing at the door, ready and alert. He looked to the Governor, wishing he could ask what was going on, but knowing it was not his place.
The Governor stared at the young man, sitting rigidly before him, obviously uneasy in this situation. He smiled slightly. “Leon, I have called you here because I wish to speak with you. But let us speak as one man to the other, and not a soldier to a governor.”
Leon nodded and drew in a slow breath.
“You are nervous,” the Governor said, a hint of a smile playing at the corner of his mouth.
“Yes sir,” Leon replied, honestly.
“Why?”
“Because I understand and know what the consequence of my words could very well be,” Leon replied. “I’ve seen it.”
“And tell me, are you of death?” the Governor asked.
“No, but it would not be truthful if I told you I was not afraid of the manner in which it may come,” Leon answered. “I know where I’m going, and I have full faith and confidence in my Savior, and I know He will lead me through the shadow of death and into life. Still, there is a cold dread when I think of what very well might happen. Facing the shadow of a cruel and violent death every moment of my life is something that does frighten me at times. I must constantly turn to God and give Him my fear and ask for His strength and courage in its place.”
The Governor was silent for a long time. At last, he spoke. “Leon, I called you here because I have seen some very strange and shocking things. I have seen what I thought would never happen— the freedom of slaves. People are freeing their slaves, the market is starting to crumble, and there is something strange at work here. My men tell me you and your friends are responsible for starting this.”
Leon nodded. “Yes sir, we are,” he said soberly.
The Governor raised an eyebrow, seeming surprised at the boldness Leon displayed in admitting so firmly to having been involved. “Are you the White Knight?”
Leon wanted to look away, but he didn’t. “Yes sir, I am.”
The Governor looked at him for several moments. At last, he spoke. “Leon, I need you to tell me about your God.”
***
Julian paced back and forth near the window, watching the road with anxiety. It had been over two hours since Leon left, and no news had come from him or anyone else. Aelic came and began to walk with him, matching his worried steps. Julian glanced at the boy, and saw his head was slightly bowed and he wore an expression of deep thought. Julian paused by the window and Aelic stood next to him.
At last, Aelic broke the silence. “He trusts God, and God will be with him.”
It was very simple, yet the words helped to steady Julian. He sighed. “I wish I could have gone with him. We have faced danger before, but always together, and I fear Leon is in desperate need of strong friends right now. This whole White Knight business is getting to him in a way that worries me.”
“Maybe God is testing both of you,” Aelic said.
“What?” Julian asked, turning to face him.
“He is asking Leon to trust Him through whatever trial he must face, and He is asking if you will trust Him and continue on, even if Leon dies,” Aelic said.
Julian drew in a slow breath and nodded. He turned to where Roland and Rolf sat disconsolately at the table. “Come,” he said. “Out there are men, women, and children who die without a Savior. We must go and tell them of the hope and truth we know. It’s what God would want us to do, and if the soldiers come for us, then so be it.”
The two nodded and rose.
The three left the room to get cloaks and hats, and Julian ran upstairs. He snatched up his cloak, and as he did, he noticed the journal sitting open on the desk. Julian stepped quickly to it and grabbed the quill. He quickly scribbled an entry.
The sixteenth year of Emperor Haidronias’s reign
April 26th
The EmpireLeon was taken by a guard this morning to the Governor’s home. We fear he has been arrested. It has been almost three hours, and he has not returned. Aelic, Rolf, Roland, and I are going out to speak to the people in the market and square. This may be the last time we do this. We all know the danger, and we are ready to face what we must. Father, protect us.
~Julian.
Julian let the page dry as he donned his cloak and pulled his hat down over his ears. He took a deep breath and looked out into the street. Then, he closed the journal and pushed it into his satchel. He walked downstairs and joined his three companions. “Roland and I will take the marketplace if you and Aelic will take the square,” Rolf said.
Julian looked to Aelic, who nodded. The four separated, and Julian and Aelic walked in silence. When they came to the town square, people began to gather about, many recognizing them, and others drawn to the crowd. Julian moved to step up on the wide ledge of the town fountain, but Aelic placed a hand on his arm. “May I?” he asked.
Julian was surprised, for the entire time he had been with them, Aelic had not yet spoken to the people. “Are you ready?”
“This may be the last day we have to do this,” Aelic replied. “I want to know that I let go of fear and placed my trust in God and was willing to put myself in danger to tell others of Him.”
Julian moved back, and Aelic stepped up onto the rim of the fountain. The people gathered close to hear what he had to say. Aelic bowed his head and Julian did, likewise, silently praying for his friend. He looked up when Aelic spoke. “People of Wiedlisbourg, my name is Aelic Holzer. I was the son of a simple lumberjack and his wife. I served the gods as well as any of you. My mother died at my birth, and we were told it was because I had been born on a day holy to the gods. My father and I became very dedicated to the service of the gods. If anyone should be favored by them, it was us. My father was killed while cutting timber, and I was told it was because of me. I was the curse to our family. My mother and father died because a cursed child was born into their house, or so I was told. I became an outcast, and all the village thought I was a curse to them as well. In the end, I was told there was only one thing I could do.”
Aelic paused and the crowd held its breath. “If I was to give up my life and die at the hand of the priest on the night of the full moon, I would wipe away the curse. My blood would cover the curse and cleanse our line. By my death, the curse would be broken.”
There were murmurs from the crowd. Everyone knew this was sometimes done, but it was not often, and when it happened it was the result of something very evil done by the person… or so the priests said.
Aelic raised a hand and the crowd fell silent. “It was my last day to live when Julian, Leon, and Roland came to my village. They spoke of a God I had never heard of; a God who was a God of love. He created each one of us, and He loves us. We turned away from Him and sinned, and the punishment for that sin is death. If there was one thing the priests of this country had right, it was this; a sacrifice was the only way to brake sin’s curse. Someone had to die to break that curse. What they don’t understand is this; no man could ever pay that price, for we are all sinners and all guilty and deserving of death. God sent His one and only Son to come and dwell among us as a man. He was the perfect man, and He committed no sin, in thought, word, or deed. He gave His life for us and died so that we might be free. He died to break the curse; His blood covers our sins.”
Julian nodded slowly. Aelic’s words were resonating with the people in a new way. He could see it.
“I was not a cursed child in the way the priest meant,” Aelic continued. “My mother did not die because she failed to go to a holy day, and my father did not die because of me. They died because we are all cursed; cursed by the sin we commit. I was cursed. I was cursed by sin, but now I am free! I could never die to break that curse, but I don’t have to. Christ already did. There is only one God, and He died for each one of us. I have given my life to Him, and He has saved me from the curse of death. Even if I die here, I will go and live with Him for eternity. I will serve Him with all that is in me until my last breath.”
Aelic looked around at the people. He was breathing a little quickly, but his eyes were filled with fire.
Julian felt the same sort of pride that always washed over him when Adrian did something particularly courageous.
“I have not heard so much passion and zeal in one so young since the dark days in Ardenta.”
Julian spun about. “Leon!” he cried Oh thank God! I can’t believe you’re here! Are you alright? Are you safe?”
“I am safe and unharmed,” Leon smiled. “God has worked a miracle today, and if you want to see it unfold then come to the marketplace when the Town Cryer calls the people to gather.”
“Leon, what have you done?” Julian asked suspiciously.
“Nothing, my friend,” Leon laughed. The joy in his eyes was real, and he seemed almost back to his old self, as if some weight had been lifted from his shoulders.
Before Julian could ask what was happening, a man on a horse trotted into the square. “People of Wiedlisbourg. The Governor has called all to gather in the marketplace. Come at once.” With that, he turned and road away.
Everyone but Leon looked confused. When Julian looked at his friend, Leon just smiled and motioned toward the marketplace. Aelic moved to join them, and his eyes widened when he saw Leon. “Leon! Thank God!” he cried, throwing his arms about him. “Oh, thank God, thank God!”
Leon slapped Aelic on the back. “I’m glad to see you too,” he said. “And Aelic, I’m proud of you.”
Aelic looked up, one of his rare, true smiles lighting his whole face. “Thank you, Leon. I guess didn’t want to stand before mu Savior some day and know that I let people die because I was too afraid to speak.”
Leon slapped his shoulder. “You did well, Aelic.”
The people were pressing in close about them now as they made their way toward the market. Leon and his two friends walked with them. They soon spotted Rolf and Roland standing to the side of the auction platform, looking at where the Governor stood on it with several soldiers flanking him. They cried out in surprise and delight when they saw Leon and embraced their friend joyfully. “What’s going on?” Rolf asked.
“You will see,” Leon replied.
When all were gathered, the Governor raised his hands for silence. When the crowd was quiet, he spoke. “People of Wiedlisbourg, today I have spoken with one of the five strangers who came to our town: Leon Fischer, also known to us as the White Knight. He told me of the one true God, and of His sacrifice to save us. He explained to me many wonderful things, and he spoke the truth to me. I stand before you today to say that I believe in this God, for He is the one true God!”
There was a moment of stunned silence. Then, several people began to cheer.
The Governor again raised his hand and silence fell. “I asked Leon what to do, and he showed me accounts in God’s book, the Bible, of how the people cleansed their towns and cities. I say that we will destroy everything that was associated with idol worship. Not only that, but the selection games for the Tournament of the gods will no longer be held here. And, what’s more, the slave market is closed, and slavery is abolished! All owners must free their slaves, and I will personally see to it that they are in some way compensated from the treasury. All slaves will be paid from the royal treasury as well. I know that money can never give back what was stolen from you. But I hope it will help you to begin a new life or return home.”
The response from this was loud and varied. Most slave owners didn’t mind as long as they were paid well, but several people were angry about the destruction of the idols, and others were disappointed that the games were to be moved. However, the majority of the crowd was swept up in all the excitement and didn’t seem to mind what happened
Leon caught sight of the town priest standing to the side, glaring in their direction. He wondered if he would leave the town or cause trouble. He hoped the priest would just leave.
Julian was staring at the Governor in completely disbelief. What miracles have You worked Lord? The Governor a believer and the whole town beginning to turn!
No half-heartedness and no worldly fear must turn us aside from following the light unflinchingly.
Sorry, for some reason I didn’t get an email for this. 🙁
Good section! I like Julian’s reaction to Leon being the White Knight, and how they resolve their argument.
Julian raised an eyebrow. “I think that’s about the first time you have ever admitted I was better at you than something.”
Lol.
He knew this room very well. Leon let out a slow breath and closed his eyes. He could almost feel the slender arm locked with his, and he heard the sweet, musical laughter at his side. Leon blinked away tears and looked up at the wall. He stopped short. There was a painting above him, depicting a knight and a lady seated on a bench in a moonlit garden. In the lighting, the silver armor the warrior wore looked white. He stood there for several minutes, just as they had often stood and stared at this picture together. She always created stories for each painting.
She had created a story for him.
Interesting . . . this made me wonder if he had been in love with the governor’s daughter, but that didn’t seem right once I saw how the governor interacted with him. 🤔 Side note: I don’t know if Governor should be capitalized. I guess it wouldn’t normally be, but maybe since it seems to be a more inportant title here, it’s fine?
“And tell me, are you of death?” the Governor asked.
Afraid?
Julian glanced at the boy, and saw his head was slightly bowed and he wore an expression of deep thought
I didn’t realize Aelic was so young. What are the age gaps between the five guys?
Julian felt the same sort of pride that always washed over him when Adrian did something particularly courageous.
This is sweet. I think the tenses are a bit mixed up, though. It makes it sound like Adrian is still alive.
Julian felt the same sort of pride that had always washed over him whenever Adrian did something particularly courageous. ?
Overall, great job!
"Don't shine so that others can see you. Shine so that through you, others can see Him." ~ C. S.
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