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I like how this is going. I will be furious if you kill them, but also… I really like these scenes. The dungeons plus the hope that the Allied Armies will come in time is a great mix. I want to read more because I really don’t know which way it will go.
Thank you! I’m so glad you are enjoying the mix and the suspense is building. It is as it should be.
I also like it because it’s reminding me of my Kos-SK WIP (Kingdom of Shadows/Shattered Kingdoms). The third and fourth books specifically, since that’s when Alwin and Winifrith meet, marry, and tip the world upside down.
*Gaspeth!* I want to read it!!!!!!
Write wisely. 😎
woah. Is that a threat?
lol.
Okay, here’s a hard question for ya. If you could only save one, who would it be?
Man is born for the fight, to be forged and molded into a sharper, finer, stronger image of God
All right then! I’ll write some scenes for those snowballs someone hit me with.
As for who I’d save… Why can’t they all live? XD
Really though. It depends on who I’m answering as: the reader or the writer. As the reader, I don’t want to see Joseph, Amelia, or Berik die. As the writer, I see a plausible reason for any of those three. While it would be a great break from form to kill the lady, it would not be a break from form to kill another of Joseph’s loved ones. If we were going with my own tendencies, all but one of the men (being the least “worthy” in most people’s eyes but with a huge purpose to fulfill later.) would die, Amelia and Berik would escape miraculously, and there’d be a gut wrenching scene about angels right before the execution. XD
(Honestly, I would love to see other forms of persecution. Do they return to find their house has been confiscated? Are they mocked even though they need medical help? What would Joseph do if he and his family were destitute with nowhere to go a few months from now? Can he trust God with his livelihood as well as his life? The lives of those he loves?)
Koshka has been reading Lord of the Rings while sick, so she’s sending the eagles.
Write wisely. It’s half benediction, half threat. If you kill them a horde of memes are coming your way. And then the fanfictions and kidnappings will start. 😎
You have listened to fears, child. Come, let me breathe on you... Are you brave again? -Aslan
I see. Maybe. lol.
Ooo, fan-fiction! Now I really should kill them all!
Man is born for the fight, to be forged and molded into a sharper, finer, stronger image of God
Sorry this took me so long to respond—I didn’t get a notification, so I thought you hadn’t wrote back yet.
My first thought is that you would need to save Joseph, because it would be strange to kill off the main character three quarters (four fifths?) of the way through the book.
But looking past that, Joseph’s character arc is already fulfilled. He’s always feared he wasn’t strong enough to withstand persecution, but his strength when they are captured and realization that God will provide him with the words and the strength he needs brings that to completion. If Joseph died now, it would be sad, but I don’t think it would leave anything unfulfilled.
So… if I had to pick one, I would say Beric. Even though Amelia’s pregnant 😢, I think killing off everyone but Amelia wouldn’t leave much story to be told, while if you killed off everyone but Beric, I feel like there could still be a good story there. Plus his arc seems very unfinished right now—he has the same fears as Joseph did before. Both Joseph and Amelia’s deaths would be more complete than Beric’s, which would be more jolting and unsatisfactory to readers. (This is all just as it is right now—Beric could still change by the execution.)
Anyway, those are my thoughts. But I will still be sad if you kill Joseph and Amelia off.
INTP 🧡 Homeschooler 🧡 WIP: The Color of Hope
I didn’t really notice that the uncle’s betrayal felt forced, but I would have to go back and look at it again to see for sure. I was so preoccupied with Yeah, I knew that was gonna happen and Oh no—what’s gonna happen to them now? To really focus on it. Unless Linus feels otherwise, I think it was fine.
INTP 🧡 Homeschooler 🧡 WIP: The Color of Hope
My first thought is that you would need to save Joseph, because it would be strange to kill off the main character three quarters (four fifths?) of the way through the book.
well, i did that is the last book. *shrug*
Hmm. Beric? I see where you’re going with that. But poor Amelia!
Man is born for the fight, to be forged and molded into a sharper, finer, stronger image of God
@hybridlore @linus-smallprint @koshka @keilah-h @elishavet-pidyon @grcr
12/31/24
NEXT SECTION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The next morning, Joseph was startled awake by the sound of keys jangling in the lock. He sat up quickly, jolting Amelia awake.
Beric rolled over and yawned.
At the other side of the room, David was already sitting up, and Stephen rolling over.
Two guards stepped into the room and made straight for David, yanking him to his feet before he had a chance to stand on his own. David caught Stephen’s eye, and then he was gone, dragged from the room by the two guards. The door was slammed and locked behind him.
Joseph sat in stunned silence for a long moment. It had all been so fast… he hadn’t been able to say or do anything.
“Oh Lord, be with him,” Stephen whispered.
Joseph looked at Amelia. She was sitting very still, tears in her eyes. He glanced over at Beric who was staring at the door, his face slightly pale.
They waited in silence for a long time, wondering what was happening to David, when the guards would come back, and who would be next.
Joseph prayed silently the whole time, begging God to give them all strength for what lay ahead.
The steps came and the door opened. Joseph stiffened, watching the men as they stepped into the room. One of the men pointed at Amelia. She squeezed Joseph’s hand and then rose. Bending, she dropped a kiss on Beric’s forehead. Joseph scrambled up. “Wait,” he whispered, grabbing her hand. Amelia glanced back at him, but the guards pulled her away.
A small sob escaped Beric’s lips.
Joseph stood staring at the closed door, listening to Amelia’s steps fade down the hall. Oh Lord, please don’t let that be the last time I ever see her! Please Lord!
When he couldn’t hear their steps any longer, Joseph dropped down next to Beric and wrapped an arm about him, pulling the boy against his side. He was filled with worry for Amelia and was even more frightened by the fact that the guards had not brought David back. What have they done to him? What will they do to her? Oh Father, help Amelia. Protect her and give her strength.
Their straining ears heard the soldiers long before they arrived. The men entered and went straight for Joseph. Beric tightened his hold about him. “Please don’t go!” he gasped.
Joseph gently untangled himself from the boy and got to his feet. “You are never alone, and never fatherless, Beric. Remember that.” He encouraged.
A hand fell on his shoulder, and Joseph stepped away with guards. He glanced back on last time to see Stephen beside Beric; a comforting arm about him.
Joseph followed the guards through the halls and up the steps. He wondered if this was what it had been like for Aaron— alone in the dark, with enemies on either side. I am not alone. He reminded himself.
They entered the office once again, and Joseph stood before the desk. His eyes darted about the room, seeking any sign of Amelia or David.
There was none.
The only other person in the room was the official, who stood with his hands clasped behind him and his back turned. At last, he faced Joseph. “Ah, Joseph, it is so good to see you. Now, before you give me your answer, let me tell you a little something about the two before you— your wife and brother.”
Joseph felt a cold chill run down his back. “What did you do to them?”
The officer smiled. “David, your brother, was very defiant, as you were yesterday. He was reckless and foolish, and he has chosen his fate.”
Joseph closed his eyes. Oh God… please help him.
“The girl, Amelia, was a different matter,” the man continued.
Joseph head snapped up. “Where is she?”
“She was gentle and quiet, and she and I were able to have a reasonable conversation,” the officer continued, ignoring Joseph’s question. “After a time, she saw the truth, and we came to an agreement. She is now waiting outside for you. She said to tell you that it was alright, and this way was much better. She wants you to go ahead and comply, and then the two of you can go home together. She said to do it for the baby’s sake.”
Joseph’s eyes flashed. “Do you think for a moment I would believe you?” he said angrily. “You have made a slight mistake. If either of us are going to falter, it would be me! She is the stronger! Amelia has given herself to God. She would never do such a thing, and neither will I.”
“Come now, don’t be so hasty,” said the man. “I said that only to help you come to your senses. It was said in goodwill.”
“Goodwill?” Joseph laughed. “You are a servant of the devil, and he seeks to destroy me. Nothing you do is in goodwill.”
“So your answer is––”
“No.”
“You would not even consider––”
“No.”
“Nothing will change your––”
“No!”
“Well than, we must I do all in our power to bring you to your senses,” The man growled.
Joseph felt the hands of the guard on his shoulders, and he was pulled from the room. He was taken down the stairs and past the hall where their cell was.
They entered another hall, and the guards opened another door. One of them shoved Joseph, and he stumbled forward.
His hand found the could stone of the floor and he steadied himself. The door was closed and locked and Joseph got to his feet. The room was pitch black and the only light came from the cracks around the door frame. There were no windows. “David! Amelia!” Joseph called.
There was no answer, only the sound of his voice before the darkness swallowed it.
“Oh God help them,” Joseph whispered.
Putting out a hand, Joseph found the wall. Moving carefully, he walked the perimeter of the small cell. There was nothing.
Joseph leaned against the wall and slowly slid into a sitting position. He could feel fear crawling up his spine and he shuddered. This place made him think of hiding with Adrian in the cellar, and it brought to mind one of the last conversations they had together.
“Afraid of the dark, eh? It’s nothing to be ashamed of. I am too.”
“Why?”
“Well, it’s mostly tight dark spaces.”
“Like when we were hiding from the soldiers?”
“Yeah, I didn’t like that very much.”
“I wasn’t scared that time. Well, at least not of the dark. I was scared of the soldiers though.”
“So was I. What makes you afraid of the dark?”
“Well, because the dark is all alone, and you can’t see anyone, and I don’t like to be by myself.”
“Do you think your more afraid of the dark, or being alone?”
“Maybe being alone. I wasn’t scared of the dark when you were with me.”
“I never really minded being alone. I like to get away to think.”
“I don’t mean that. I mean being alone. All alone. All by yourself with no one to go to if you need help.”
“I guess that is different. You know, we aren’t all alone anymore. God will always be with us, no matter where we are or how dark it is. You’re never alone”
“Never alone,” Joseph whispered.
There was no reply. Not even an echo.
Joseph swallowed hard and closed his eyes. I wonder if this is how Aaron and Adrian felt. “Lord, please help me,” he whispered. “I’m afraid. I’m afraid of what these men can do to me, but I’m more afraid of what they’ll do to those I love. I promised to protect Amelia— to give my life for her even— but I don’t know where she is, and I can’t get to her. I feel so helpless. And I promised Beric I would look out for him, yet I’m not there while he faces those men. Lord, please do what I can’t. please be with them, Father. Please!”
Time dragged. The darkness seemed to grow thicker and heavier, and a chill seeped into Joseph. The dark and the fear began to press down on him and dread of what lay ahead toke hold of him. Joseph drew his knees up and wrapped his arms about them. Pressing his face against his knees he whispered, “Lord, help me, I’m afraid. I’m so afraid. Give me strength!”
It seemed like an eternity had passed. All at once, the door crashed open. Joseph started and looked up as two soldiers came at him. he was dragged to his feet and forced out into the hallway. “Where’s Amelia? Where’s my wife?” he asked, desperately.
One of the guards struck him across the back of the head.
Joseph kept his mouth shut and silently begged God to protect the others. Joseph was taken down one hallway and up another. At last, they entered a large room with a ceiling so high it disappeared in the darkness. Torches flickered along the walls and cast strange and evil shadows about the room. Joseph cried out with relief when he saw Stephen standing a short distance away, and just beyond him was Beric.
David and Amelia were nowhere to be seen.
“Where are the others?” Joseph asked, desperately.
The guard hit him again, and the look on Stephen’s face clearly said he knew no more than Joseph did.
Oh God, please, please, please help them. Keep her safe! Joseph pleaded silently.
They heard steps, and the three turned to see the officer who had arrested them step into the room. His eyes flickered with cruelty as he looked at them. “You three have been extremely willful and refuse to have good reasoning. You are the ones causing this. Now, the Empire has decided to show you mercy— more mercy than you ever could possibly deserve. If just one of you turns from this foolish way, all of you will go free. You know the consequences if you don’t.”
“You will never convince one of us to agree to turn our backs of our faith,” Stephen replied.
“He’s right,” Joseph agreed. “No matter what you do.”
Beric nodded; his eyes locked on Joseph.
“Tell me, what would you do to save your son’s life?” the officer asked, looking at Joseph.
“Anything,” Joseph replied quickly.
The officer raised an eyebrow.
Joseph gritted his teeth. “I would give my own life for Beric, but I can’t do what you ask.”
“Even if that means he dies?” the officer questioned.
Joseph looked at Beric. “Even then. He knows how much I love him, but I could never turn my back on God for him. He knows that, and he understands.”
The officer narrowed his eyes. “We will see.”
Joseph glanced at Stephen and saw the young man’s eyes were shadowed with worry. He felt a chill run through him along with the creeping dread of what was about to take place.
The officer nodded and the men holding Stephen shoved him forward. Stephen stumbled slightly and then straightened, looking at the officer. From the shadows stepped a tall imperial soldier, only a few inches shorter than Stephen. In his hands he held a long whip.
Joseph sucked in a sharp breath and closed his eyes. “No, no, no” he whispered. “Oh God help him!”
Stephen had also seen the man, but he said nothing. The officer crossed his arms and leered at Stephen. “Will you speak, or must we help you.”
“I will not say what you wish me to,” Stephen replied.
The guards stripped the shirt and vest from him and thrust him to his knees.
Joseph couldn’t breathe. Father, help us! “Hold on, Stephen!” he yelled. “Don’t give in!”
The pommel of a sword struck Joseph across the shoulder-blades, and he gasped in pain.
The tall soldier unleashed the whip, striking it on the ground next to Stephen. Stephen flinched and caught his breath.
Joseph bit his lip until he tasted blood. “God, help him. Give him strength,” he whispered.
The soldier struck and Joseph closed his eyes, unable to watch. He could hear Stephen’s gasp of pain, and he gritted his teeth. There was another crack of the lash and Joseph flinched.
“One of you had better give in,” the officer said. “You can stop him right now.”
“Don’t listen to him!” Stephen cried. The soldier stuck and a cry of pain escaped his lips.
The whip struck twice more, and then the officer waved his soldier aside. “That’s enough.”
Stephen tried to rise but dropped back down with a sharp intake of breath. Joseph watched in horror, and he longed to run to Stephen and help him up, but two of the soldiers still held him.
The officer motioned to two of his men, and they grabbed Stephen and dragged him to the side. Stephen was fighting to catch his breath, and his face was drawn with pain.
The officer turned cold eyes on Joseph and Beric. “Are you ready to end this foolishness?”
Joseph struggled to take in a breath. “No,” he said hoarsely.
The officer shrugged and the soldiers behind Joseph shoved him forward. Father, help me!
Beric gasped and went white with dread.
“Beric, don’t say anything!” Joseph cried. A guard struck him, but Joseph didn’t stop. “If we endure, we will reign with Him—” One of the soldiers drove his fist into Joseph’s side, and Joseph coughed, gasping for breath.
Beric was watching, his face white, but a determined look flickered in his eyes.
Joseph faced the officer and drew in a slow breath. One of the soldiers drew a dagger and slashed through the straps of Joseph’s black vest. His companion yanked it off and the soldier grabbed the collar of Joseph’s shirt, tearing through the fabric and yanking it off him.
Joseph could feel the cold air and it sent a creeping shudder through him. One of the men kicked him in the back of the knee and Joseph’s leg buckled. The soldiers slammed him hard into the ground.
Joseph lay on the stone floor, watching the approaching boots of the tall soldier. He clenched his teeth and held his breath, waiting for the blow. The leather strap of the whip dragged on the ground, and the soldier let it trail over Joseph’s back. Joseph’s hands tightened to fists and a shudder raced through him. He couldn’t breathe, and his back constricted at the cold touch of the leather. He could feel stickiness on the floor, and the smell of blood was sickening.
“You know what will happen to you,” came the officer’s voice. “Just a few words and you’re free.”
Just a few words, Joseph thought. A few words and I escape this torment. A few words, and we all go home. A few words, and I get to hold my first child. A few words, and Beric won’t go through this…
“If we have died with Him, we will also live with Him” a Voice whispered in his heart.
Just a few words.
“If we endure, we will also reign with Him…”
Simple little words I don’t even have to mean… Joseph’s mind argued.
“If we deny Him, He also will deny us…” the Voice replied.
It’s just words, I don’t even have to do anything…
“If we are faithless, He remains faithful— for He cannot deny himself.”
Joseph took a deep breath. “I can’t.”
The pain that ripped across Joseph’s back was unlike anything he could have imagined. He cried out, gasping for air, his head spinning. Oh God! Oh God, I can’t! Help me!
The soldier struck again, and Joseph closed his eyes tightly as tears of pain streaked his face. He couldn’t take it again! He had to give in! No! I can’t! I can’t do that! Father, help me!
Joseph flung his arms up over his head, struggling to breathe. The pain was unbearable. His vision blurred and the metallic smell and taste of blood was in his nose and mouth.
Another blow fell and for a moment everything was black, and he felt and heard nothing.
Then he felt the pain taring through him again, and another agonizing blow fell.
“Enough,” came the officer’s voice. It sounded strange and far away.
Joseph slowly turned his head to where he had last seen Beric. The boy was standing with his hands over his ears and his eyes tightly closed, tears running down his pale face.
Joseph tried to rise, but a wave of dizziness swept over him and his vision blurred. He fell back with a gasp of pain.
Rough hands fell on his torn shoulders and a choked cry broke from Joseph. He was dragged to the side of the room and thrown down next to Stephen, who had struggled to a sitting position.
“Well done, Joseph,” Stephen said, and received a blow from a guard’s fist.
Joseph winced and slowly fought his way to a sitting position, bracing both hands on the ground in front of him for support.
Joseph’s eyes found Beric’s.
The boy was watching him, a strange expression on his face. He gave Joseph a slight nod. Beric stood, legs shoulder’s-width apart, head thrown back, and face set in determination.
For a moment, Joseph was taken back to the first time he had seen Beric in the alley. But no, there was something different. His eyes were no longer cold with suspicion and killing fury— they were filled with a light from within.
The Imperial officer was also studying Beric. “So, boy, will you make the same mistake as your companions?”
Beric turned to face him. “It was no mistake.”
The officer raised an eyebrow.
“They did what was right,” Beric continued. “They fear God more then you, and He has given them strength to obey Him. I trust Him to give me the same strength.” He reached for his vest and undid the lacing, stripping the leather garment off. He pulled his shirt off and walked calmly toward the officer. He paused, looking him in the eyes. Then he spoke. “You wanted to frighten me by making me watch. You have only given me hope. If God could give them strength, then He will give it to me.”
The officer’s eyes blazed and he cursed furiously, striking Beric. The boy staggered slightly, and the guards eagerly flung him to his knees. Beric barely had time to cover his head before the first strike of the lash tore across his back.
His cry of pain filled Joseph’s eyes with tears. Joseph staggered to his feet, the room spinning. He tried to take a step forward, but the guards wrenched him back. “Stop!” Joseph cried hoarsely. “You know he won’t give in, and neither will we. Please stop.”
“What’s wrong? Can’t bear to watch the consequences of your choice?” the officer sneered. “I gave you a chance to protect him, and you refused.” He stepped forward and stood in front of Joseph. “What kind of a father are you, handing your son over to this for the sake of your pride?”
“It’s not my pride,” Joseph said hoarsely.
The tall soldier struck Beric again, and the boy’s cry tore through Joseph.
Joseph couldn’t stand it. “Stop! Just stop!”
“Joseph, stay strong!” Stephen called.
One of the guards wrenched Stephen up, pinning his arm behind his back. “Keep silent,” he hissed.
The officer smiled coldly. “Think about what you’re losing, Joseph. A brother, a son…”
Joseph gritted his teeth, struggling to pull free from his captors. A wave of dizziness swept over him and his legs gave out. Joseph fell to his knees but staggered up again. “Oh God, give him strength,” he whispered as the tears spilled down his face.
The soldier struck again, and Beric collapsed to the floor, choking for breath.
Joseph tried in vain to yank free and run to Beric. At last, his strength gave out and he fell to his knees once more. The guards let him go as two of the soldiers dragged Beric up off the floor. Joseph half caught the boy as soldiers flung him down.
Beric was struggling for breath, blood streaking his pale face. Joseph pulled him close, almost forgetting his own pain. “Well done, Beric! Well done,” he whispered.
Beric didn’t reply, but his hand found Joseph’s arm and he held it tightly.
Joseph carefully helped Beric to sit, and the boy leaned forward, his head resting on his bent knees. One of the soldiers kicked their shirts toward them, and Joseph painfully reached out and grabbed a handful of the fabric. Joseph turned and watched the officer, who was looking at them with eyes full of hate. The man said something to the tall soldier, who shrugged in response. He gestured to the three, and Joseph tensed.
Four of the guards came toward them and yanked them to their feet. Pain flared through Joseph’s back, and he gritted his teeth.
The officer walked slowly toward them, his hands behind his back. “You will be given time to think over the consequences of your actions. Remember, tomorrow you die, so choose wisely.”
The soldier’s pushed them toward the door. Beric stumbled and sank to his knees. Two of the guards grabbed hold of him to drag him.
“Let me,” Joseph said.
One shrugged and they let Beric go. Joseph shoved the shirts at Stephen and slipped an arm under Beric, trying his best not to touch the wounds on his back. Beric leaned against him. Stephen put an arm about Beric from the other side and the three of them followed the guards through the dark hall and up a flight of steps.
They came to a cell and the guards stopped. They unlocked the door, and Joseph stepped into the room, Beric leaning against him. The guards slammed and locked the door behind them.
“Joseph?”
Joseph’s head snapped up. “Amelia!” he cried, hardly daring to hope.
“Oh Joseph, Stephen, Beric! Thank God!” Amelia exclaimed, coming into the shafts of torchlight that filtered through the cell window. David was with her, his face drawn with worry.
Joseph and Stephen lowered Beric down, and Joseph crouched next to him. Amelia dropped to her knees, hugging Joseph tightly.
Joseph sucked in a sharp breath and pulled away.
“Oh Joseph! You’re bleeding!” Amelia gasped. “And Beric is hurt too! All three of you are!”
Joseph nodded. “We’re alright. Beric got the worst of it.” He turned to Beric and placed his hands on the boy’s shoulders. “You were so, so strong! Well done!” He pulled Beric against him, careful not to touch his back.
“I was so frightened,” Beric whispered. “But when you and Stephen didn’t give in… I knew God would help me.”
“He most certainly did!” Joseph exclaimed. “You should have seen him, Amelia! He was so courageous! It made the soldiers angry, for they hoped to frighten him into submission.”
“But what happened?” Amelia asked.
“They tried to persuade us with a lashing,” Stephen replied, from where he sat beside David.
Amelia gasped.
“We’re alright,” Beric managed. “We didn’t give in, and that’s what matters, isn’t it?”
“Oh, my brave boy,” Amelia whispered, hugging him carefully and kissing the top of his head.
Beric looked up at Joseph. “I’m not as scared anymore. In the beginning, I was afraid that I wouldn’t have the strength but today proves God will help us. I trust Him.”
“It was the same for me,” Joseph said, quietly. “For so many years, I was afraid that I would give in and not have the strength of those who died before me. Now, that fear and doubt is finally gone. I have experienced God’s unfailing help, and I am ready to face anything.”
Amelia kissed him gently on the cheek. “My brave boys,” she smiled. “All three of you so, so courageous.” She looked toward her older brothers. “Stephen, are you alright?”
“I’m cold,” Stephen replied.
Amelia laughed in a half crying sort of way. “You just went through all that, and you’re cold?”
“Cold and hungry,” Stephen amended.
“Oh, don’t mention food,” Joseph moaned.
Stephen gave him a wry grin and winced. “David, can you help me get my shirt on?”
His older brother complied at once, quickly handing Joseph and Beric theirs. Joseph helped Beric pull his shirt on, wincing as the movement opened his own cuts. “Hopefully this will protect them from the dirt on the floors and wall,” he said.
Beric nodded, and Joseph painfully slid on his own shirt. All three of them were torn, but the fabric provided some protection.
Joseph turned to Amelia. “Are you or David hurt?”
“No,” she replied. “They haven’t bothered us. I don’t know why, but I am very thankful.”
“Yes, I agree. I cannot thank God enough for making them keep their hands off you,” Joseph said. “But what happened when we were separated?”
“They questioned me and then took me here,” Amelia replied. “After a time, they brought David in. Then we waited and prayed, and finally you came.
Joseph looked over at David. “I heard you were stubborn.”
“Like a donkey, or so I was told,” David grinned.
Joseph looked down at Amelia. “And you? What did you say?”
“I wouldn’t speak to him at all until he asked me decision,” she replied.
“The lying snake,” growled Joseph. “He said you two came to a compromise!” He clenched his fists. “He said—”
“Hush,” Amelia whispered, laying a finger over his lips. “It’s alright, dearest. We’re here and safe, and it doesn’t matter what he said.”
Beric lay down, and Amelia lifted his head, letting it rest on her lap. She stroked his hair back from his forehead and Beric smiled slightly.
Joseph placed a hand on Amelia’s shoulder. “Father God, thank You for giving all of us the strength we needed today. Thank You for keeping Amelia and David safe. Thank You for the courage and strength You have given us all. Give us peace and comfort and prepare us for whatever lies ahead.”
The others murmured in agreement.
Joseph looked down at Beric. He could hardly believe the change that had swept over the boy in that moment of trial, and he silently thanked God for it. Having once experienced God’s strength through him, Beric had become bold and courageous, and the terror of the morning seemed to have been swept away.
Beric let out a breath and shifted slightly. His eyes closed and he relaxed as Amelia continued the soothing motion of her cool hand over his hot forehead. Joseph put an arm about her, and she leaned against him. He leaned back against the wall, gritting his teeth at the flare of pain. After a few minutes, the stabbing pain faded to a dull ache. Joseph let out a long weary breath.
Steps sounded in the hall, and Joseph tensed. Beric was still asleep, and Joseph looked to David. The young man was slowly getting to his feet, expecting the soldiers to come for him.
Suddenly, there was a shout. The next moment there were running steps, and then silence. For a while, the captives waited.
No one came.
At last, one by one, they closed their eyes and slept.
***
Joseph woke deeply refreshed. He moved slightly, and found he was stiff, and a dull pain throbbed in his back. His lips were cracked with thirst and his mouth was dry. He felt a little lightheaded but wonderfully rested.
Stephen and David were awake, talking in low voices. Amelia still slept against him, and on his other side Beric was not yet awake.
Joseph smiled at David and Stephen. Stephen nodded to him and David grinned.
Joseph leaned his head back and closed his eyes. Well, this is the last morning, he thought. What will it be like? I’ll meet so many close friends again. I’ll see father, mother, Adrian, Aaron… and I’ll see Him. What will it be like to see my Savior face to face? A shiver ran though him, but it was not one of horror. It was one of excitement and joy, along with a little bit of terror. Father, thank You for giving me such a wonderful life. Thank You for giving me strength and courage to face these trials, and for giving me such joy and blessing. Thank You for always being there, even when I forgot or neglected to call on You. Thank You for letting me be a part of Your plan and thank You for using me to shine light for so many. Keep the church strong. Be with the Caddicks, Sabina, Noah, Darrien, Asher, Eric, Alicia, Leon, and Julian. Help them to trust You through this time of trial. If it is Your will, please set them free. I trust You, Lord. Your will be done.
Amelia stirred and opened her eyes. She looked up at Joseph. “Good morning.”
“Good morning, dearest” he replied, and a slight pain of sadness filled him when he remembered this was the last time he would ever say that to her.
Amelia nestled closer in his arms, leaning her head back against his chest. She laid a hand on Beric’s head, which still rested on her lap. “God has given me such a beautiful life,” she said quietly. “He blessed me with a loving husband, a wonderful son, and a baby of my own.”
Joseph smiled, hugging her closer. “Oh Amelia, you have been such a blessing to me. Your cheerfulness, your encouragement, and your love and support. Thank You, Father, for giving me Amelia!” he kissed her cheek, and she smiled up at him, tears in her eyes.
After a little while, Beric woke. Joseph helped him sit up and he rubbed his eyes. “Morning,” he murmured.
“Good morning, Beric,” Joseph replied.
“How did you sleep?” Amelia asked.
“Well. My back is sore though,” Beric replied. “And I feel a little dizzy.”
“Maybe you should lie back down,” Joseph suggested.
Amelia laid a hand against Beric’s forehead and then drew it back, a look of worry in her eyes. “Your face is burning. You should rest.”
“I’m thirsty,” Beric said.
Joseph grimaced. “I’m afraid there’s no water, Beric. I’m sorry.”
“I’m fine,” Beric said bravely. He leaned against the wall, his face twisting with pain.
Amelia moved to get up and then sank back down with a sharp intake of breath. She bent over, wrapping her arms about herself and wincing.
“Amelia are you alright?” Joseph exclaimed, putting his arms around her.
“Yes… it’s just cramps,” Amelia panted. “I started having them yesterday. Now––” she broke off wincing.
“Is the baby alright?” Joseph asked anxiously. “It’s not time is it!” he added in alarm.
“No,” Amelia laughed, and then she winced again. “I need water, that’s all.”
“Will nothing else help?” Joseph asked.
Amelia shook her head. After a few moments, she slowly straightened. “It’s past. I’ll be alright now for a little while. It’s only because I haven’t had enough water for both of us.”
Joseph bit his lip in concern. He desperately wished there was something he could do to help. Beric put a hand on Amelia’s back. “Will you both be alright?” he asked anxiously.
Amelia smiled and nodded.
Steps sounded in the hall, and everyone froze, holding their breath. The door opened and two guards entered and stood on either side of the door.
The officer appeared in the doorway and looked at the five. “In a few hours’ time, you will be taken to the temple. This is your last chance. Will one of you set the rest free?”
“We are free,” David replied.
Joseph smiled. “He’s right. We are free, and we don’t fear death.”
The officer looked at each one in turn. At last, he shrugged. “So be it. If that is what you want. But you will play with this foolishness with your lives.”
He turned sharply and left. The guards followed, closing the door behind them.
Joseph hugged Amelia tightly and squeezed Beric’s hand. “If we have died with Him, we will also live with Him,” he murmured.
Beric leaned against him.
Out of the silence that followed, Stephen’s strong voice rose, full of hope and strength.
“Dear Christians, one and all, rejoice,
with exultation springing,
and with united heart and voice
and holy rapture singing,
proclaim the wonders God hath done,
how His right arm the vict’ry won.
Right dearly it has cost Him!Joseph took Amelia’s hand in his and they joined in along with David and Beric.
“Fast bound in Satan’s chains I lay;
death brooded darkly o’er me.
Sin was my torment night and day;
in sin my mother bore me.
Yet deep and deeper still I fell;
life had become a living hell,
so firmly sin possessed me.My own good works availed me naught,
no merit they attaining;
free will against God’s judgment fought,
no hope for me remaining.
My fears increased till sheer despair
left only death to be my share
and hell to be my sentence.But God beheld my wretched state
before the world’s foundation,
and, mindful of His mercies great,
He planned for my salvation.
He turned to me father’s heart,
sought my redemption fervently;
He gave His dearest treasure.He spoke to His beloved Son:
“It’s time to have compassion.
Then go, bright jewel of My crown,
and bring to man salvation.Joseph felt powerful joy and excitement fill him, and he nearly shouted the next line of the song. Beside him, Amelia was smiling, her face streaked with tears.
“From sin and sorrow set him free!
slay bitter death for him that he
may live with Thee forever.”The Son obeyed His Father’s will,
was born of virgin mother,
and, God’s good pleasure to fulfill,
He came to be my Brother.
No garb of pomp or pow’r He wore;
a servant’s form like mine He bore
to lead the devil captive.To me He spoke, “Hold fast to Me,
I am your rock and castle.
Your ransom I myself will be;
for you I strive and wrestle.
For I am yours, your friend divine,
and evermore you shall be Mine;
the foe shall not divide us.The foe will shed My precious blood,
Me of My life bereaving;
all this I suffer for your good;
be steadfast and believing.
Life will from death the vict’ry win;
My innocence shall bear your sin,
and you are blest forever.Now to My Father I depart,
the Holy Spirit sending
and, heav’nly wisdom to impart,
My help to you extending.
He will a source of comfort be,
teach you to know and follow Me,
and in all truth will guide you.What I on earth have lived and taught
be all your life and teaching;
so shall the kingdom’s work be wrought
and honored in your preaching.
Take care that no one’s man-made laws
should e’er destroy the gospel’s cause;
this final word I leave you.””The last words hung in the air for a moment, given life by the closeness of the stone walls and roof. Joseph looked at Beric and saw his face was alight with hope and joy and his eyes were lifted upward. Joseph could see the bloodstains on the sleeves and shoulders of his shirt, but despite this, the slight paleness in his face, and the cracks from lack of water in his bleeding lips, Beric was full of the wild joy and trust that Joseph felt. A feeling that made him almost tremble.
Amelia had a gentle smile on her face, one hand in his the other in Beric’s. Stephan and David were seated across from them, Stephen leaning slightly forward and David with his back to the wall.
The fate that they would all face very soon didn’t seem to matter, and Joseph felt himself grow closer to God and his companions in a way he had never known.
David’s voice broke the silence, raised in one last song. Joseph smiled and joined him along with the others.
“Lord, keep us steadfast in Your Word;
Curb those who by deceit or sword
Would seek to overthrow Your Son
And to destroy what He has done.
Lord Jesus Christ, Your pow’r make known,
For You are Lord of lords alone;
Defend Your Christendom that we
May sing Your praise eternally.
O Comforter of priceless worth,
Send peace and unity on earth.
Support us in our final strife,
And lead us out of death to life.
Lord, keep us steadfast in Your Word;
Curb those who by deceit or sword
Would seek to overthrow Your Son
And to destroy what He has done.”“Yes, Father,” David said, looking upward and lifting his hands. “This is our prayer, Father, that You would keep us steadfast in Your word.”
“Father God, curb those who by deceit and sword seek to overthrow Your Son and destroy what He has done on this earth!” Joseph pleaded.
“Bring unity and peace, father. Please bring peace to our kingdom,” Amelia prayed.
“Defend us, God,” Stephen said. “Defend us so that we may praise You forever.”
“Oh God, be with us! Save us from death and bring us into life,” Beric whispered.
Like wings covering him, Joseph felt God’s presence around him in a way that he had never known. In his heart, a verse spoke from memory— a gentle whisper of comfort. “Be still, and know that I am God…”
Man is born for the fight, to be forged and molded into a sharper, finer, stronger image of God
You can’t leave me hanging there!! 😖 Although, I’m wondering if I want to know what happens next.
No real changes to the scene that I could think of. The one hymn is pretty long, but if you want to include it all, that’s fine.
INTP 🧡 Homeschooler 🧡 WIP: The Color of Hope
haha. You’ll just have to wait…….
Man is born for the fight, to be forged and molded into a sharper, finer, stronger image of God
@ellette-giselle wow! I’m kinda scared for them. I hope at least someone will make it out alive.
Also, I like the hymn and suggest you keep it in. Shortening it if you have to is okay, though.
My idea? You can put the whole hymn in the back of the book, and if there’s a tune you had in mind while writing it, add that too, so people can play it in the real world! I greatly enjoy it when authors add stuff to the back of their books that have to do with the worldbuilding so we can experience them too. Like the diagrams or letters at the end of The Wingfeather Saga, or the genealogies, nuances of the writing systems, and notes on the Shire calendar at the back of my Lord of the Rings copy.
"When in doubt, eat cheese crackers."-me to my charries who don't even know about cheese crackers
wow! haven’t heard from you in a little while! I was wondering if you were still reading!
I think I plan to keep it. It honestly is a very special thing and a special part of the story, and I feel like it really shows their faith as whole as embodying some of the key messages of the book. I have actually ended each of the books in this saga with a hymn in the very back. I think I forgot to post the one I have in the back of LTBL. But I’ll post the one at the end of this book.
wow! I’m kinda scared for them.
you should be. I’m above nothing.
Man is born for the fight, to be forged and molded into a sharper, finer, stronger image of God
@ellette-giselle sorry ’bout that! Mostly I just read and enjoy the chapters. Others usually say what I have in mind.
you should be. I’m above nothing.
Executing a teenager and a pregnant woman is something even I would shy away from writing lol
"When in doubt, eat cheese crackers."-me to my charries who don't even know about cheese crackers
and I’m the one that briefly considered violently blinding my character who kinda needs his sight for everything.
"When in doubt, eat cheese crackers."-me to my charries who don't even know about cheese crackers
but yeah I like the hymn at the back idea! maybe if you have any recipes, or games, or other things that you put an emphasis on through the story, you could add those too. If not to the main series you could have a guidebook where you put those special things + any maps you’ve made.
I honestly love those kinds of guidebooks.
"When in doubt, eat cheese crackers."-me to my charries who don't even know about cheese crackers
Executing a teenager and a pregnant woman is something even I would shy away from writing lol
hmmmmm.
I’ve killed my fare share of teenagers….. and a few little kids……………..
but yeah I like the hymn at the back idea! maybe if you have any recipes, or games, or other things that you put an emphasis on through the story, you could add those too. If not to the main series you could have a guidebook where you put those special things + any maps you’ve made.
I honestly love those kinds of guidebooks.
I’ll think about it! Thanks for the suggestion!
Man is born for the fight, to be forged and molded into a sharper, finer, stronger image of God
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