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@ellette-giselle The one you just sent… I think 😅 I guess I missed the other scene.
WE ARE REVIVING THE PROTECTION SQUAD! *steals Joseph, Julian, and Sabina from Ellette*
That makes more sense. The last scene Joseph was terrified of Adrien. So, yeah, this scene is much sweeter. lol.
Man is born for the fight, to be forged and molded into a sharper, finer, stronger image of God
@ellette-giselle Ok, I read it! I missed Adrian’s reintro, somehow. Sorry.
I’ll thrash a teenager any day, (particularly a guy. They can take it) but little kids……… Oh well. It’s for the good of the book, and may be for his good too.
Only thing I really noticed about that scene was some typos—and in Aaron’s letter, he repeats “Joseph” over and over again. It gets a little repetitive, imo. Other than that, great job!
WE ARE REVIVING THE PROTECTION SQUAD! *steals Joseph, Julian, and Sabina from Ellette*
Wonderful. Glad it’s good.
I’ll take a look at the letter. Thanks! And yeah, I did a typo comb today. There were a lot. (yikes)
Man is born for the fight, to be forged and molded into a sharper, finer, stronger image of God
Okay, why the uniform? Well, (as will be explained later) Adrian isn’t supposed to be here at all. He’s supposed to be in the Fort or on patrol, not messing around with civilians. So, technically he’s actually on patrol, but he was using the cloak to help hide the fact that he’s going in and out of the orphanage, and the fact that he’s not an Ardentan. He’s hoping to avoid suspicion.
Ah, okay.
Asher and Eric ran to him as he rolled over and sat up. “Oh, look at your knee!” Asher exclaimed.
Joseph looked down and winced. “Ow.” He carefully pulled open the edges of the large tear across the knee of his pants, revealing a long bleeding scrape. “Sabina isn’t going to be happy, she just patched these,” he said, looking woefully at the several patches over the other knee.
“Asher, your elbow’s bleeding,” Eric commented.
I’m trying to figure out exactly when they were hurt. I think for Joseph, it was when Asher grabbed his leg, and for Asher, it was when he tumbled into the cobblestones.
In a few moments he was sitting on the roof, the evening breeze playing with his hair and gently stroking his face. Joseph liked it up here. The roof had always been a sort of refuge to him. It was up in the fresh air— though it was nothing compared to the country.
Okay, now he’s starting to feel more like Aaron since sitting on the roof was Aaron’s thing. I’m becoming curious about something. Your characters don’t seem to like being in a closed environment much. I’m wondering if this is a reflection of who you are. Do you prefer the city or the country?
“Did you talk to Noah again?” Joseph asked, breaking the silence.
Adrian nodded, the light of the street lanterns casting shadows over his face.
And here he feels like Joseph again. I liked this conversation. Joseph’s ‘why won’t you believe’ attitude reminds me of when he tried to convince Aaron to marry Sabina. I like how in his perspective, things are so much simpler than they are to adults.
I’m trying to figure out exactly when they were hurt. I think for Joseph, it was when Asher grabbed his leg, and for Asher, it was when he tumbled into the cobblestones.
Yeah, you’ve got it. But honestly, think about it. Have you ever seen boys play some wild ball/tackle/wrestle/race game? Now put that game on a cobble-stone street.
These kids are gonna have so many scars when they grow up.
Okay, now he’s starting to feel more like Aaron since sitting on the roof was Aaron’s thing.
But is that bad? Can Joseph not love the same thing as Aaron and still be Joseph? If you think it is bad, then……. idk what I’ll do. lol
I’m becoming curious about something. Your characters don’t seem to like being in a closed environment much. I’m wondering if this is a reflection of who you are. Do you prefer the city or the country?
Let’s just say that if I lived in the city I would die.
The noise, the people, the closeness, the fact that you can’t see the whole sky, the small view….. ugh. ugh. ugh. I could never do it. I need to be able to breathe. I don’t like anything about the city. Sure, it’s fun to visit and explore, and get lost in! (best part!! And I’m not being sarcastic) but having to live there!!!! *takes a deep breath to compose self and wipes sweat off palms* I just couldn’t.
So yeah, that’s why the roof is important because that’s the closest Joseph can get to being out of the city. Aaron didn’t like cities either. They are both country kids.
And here he feels like Joseph again. I liked this conversation. Joseph’s ‘why won’t you believe’ attitude reminds me of when he tried to convince Aaron to marry Sabina. I like how in his perspective, things are so much simpler than they are to adults.
Lol.
God to have simple faith like that of a child.
It is a sweet perspective, especially in a time like this.
Man is born for the fight, to be forged and molded into a sharper, finer, stronger image of God
But is that bad? Can Joseph not love the same thing as Aaron and still be Joseph? If you think it is bad, then……. idk what I’ll do. lol
No, it’s not bad. You just told me to keep a watch for if Joseph starts to feel like Aaron. This is just a place where the two of them could start to feel sort of samey.
Let’s just say that if I lived in the city I would die.
Ah. From what you said, I would expect you live on a prairie or in some other open area as well.
Okay, well as long as it’s not bad I’ll keep it. But i will keep an eye on it. Thanks for pointing it out.
Ah. From what you said, I would expect you live on a prairie or in some other open area as well
lol. Yup. Though not so far that it was hard to visit people or have them over. That would be sad.
Man is born for the fight, to be forged and molded into a sharper, finer, stronger image of God
@hybridlore @linus-smallprint @keilah-h
LONG Section!!!!!
Darrien lost his job the next morning.
The Governor decided that if the main part of the city was rebuilt, the work could stop. This left a group of neighborhoods to the east in terrible disarray, and it wasn’t long before only thieves and war refugees inhabited them.
To everyone’s relief, one of the men in the church secured a job for Noah and Darrien repairing wagons and carts. This was an even better situation than the one Darrien had come from, for now he and Noah could work together for an Ardantin rather than being in direct contact with the men of the Empire.
Sabbath morning dawned bright and clear, and Joseph was up before the sun. he hurried downstairs and saw Noah sitting at the kitchen table with his Bible. Joseph sat down beside him. “Is it a morning meeting?” he asked.
Noah shook his head, turning another page in his Bible. “We’ll be gathering this evening after dark.”
Joseph yawned and leaned his head against Noah. Noah put an arm around the boy, and Joseph let his eyes close for a moment.
When Joseph woke again, Sabina and Alicia were hurrying around the kitchen, while Noah and Darrien were preparing to leave for work. A few moments later, Asher and Eric came down and Sabina began dishing up breakfast.
Darrien paused to mess up Joseph’s hair with a friendly hand. “Morning sleepyhead.”
Joseph grinned at him.
Darrien was just scarfing the last of his breakfast and Noah was strapping on his boots when there was an urgent nock on the door.
“I’ll get it,” Noah said.
In a few moments, Joseph heard him open the door and let out a low exclamation of surprise. There was a scuffling of steps and anxious whispers. The door shut and a few moments later Noah was back. Behind him was a young man cloaked and hooded. The stranger pulled back his hood and Sabina gasped.
“Adrian!” Joseph exclaimed.
Adrian’s face was pale, but there was a strange light of peace and joy in his eyes. He smiled at Joseph, and then glanced back at the others in the room. Sabina was halfway done packing the boys’ lunch satchel, and Darrien had paused mid-lace of his boot. Alicia stood by the counter with a dripping cloth in her hand, and Asher and Eric were looking up from their breakfast.
Adrian took a deep breath. “I have decided. I have accepted Christ as my God and Savior.”
“Oh Adrian!” Sabina cried joyfully. She hurried forward to embrace him, and Noah and Darrien slapped his back and shoulders. “Thank God,” Noah said.
Adrian smiled at them all, but his face was grave. “I need your help,” he said at last.
“Come and sit,” Sabina said, drawing him to the kitchen table.
Asher and Eric smiled at Adrian as he sat down across from them. “Food or water?” Alicia offered.
“No. Thank you though,” Adrain replied.
Joseph quietly slid closer to Adrian, and Noah moved to stand behind Darrien, his arms folded loosely across his chest.
Adrian put a hand on Joseph’s shoulder and squeezed it. He rested his other hand limply on the table, his eyes on the cracks in the wood. “As I told you, I chose to accept Christ last night. I am so thankful I did, and I know I could never go back to that hallow shadow I of beliefs I once held. However, in doing so, I have forfeited my life. I will not put you in any danger. I couldn’t do that. But I am on the run from the Empire, and I was wondering if you knew a place I can hide for a short time before I make an escape.”
“Where will you go?” Noah asked, soberly.
“I was thinking Vendailia, perhaps. In my uniform I could cross the borders, and I could forge fake documents giving me leave to go into Vendailia. Once there, I’m sure I could easily disappear. They say Aaron came from there. I was hoping I could worship God in freedom if I could get across the border.”
“Yes, Aaron was from Vendailia, from the town of Benitea. Perhaps you could find his father and sister, if they are still living,” Darrien suggested.
Adrian nodded, tracing the cracks in the table with a slow finger. “There is nothing here for me but death,” he said softly.
Darrien laid a hand on the young man’s shoulder. “We will hide you until it is safe for you to run.” A sad smile touched his face. “We will miss you, my brother, but I will be glad to know you are free.”
Adrian looked up for the first time since the conversation had begun. “I would stay, I truly would, but I will be too recognizable; my hair, eyes, height–– or rather lack thereof–– it would give me away at once.”
“Of course,” Noah agreed. “If you can leave and get into Vendailia, and you feel that is the path God has called you to take, then we will do all we can to help you.”
“Yes, we will do anything for you that we possibly can,” Darrien agreed. “You can stay in the orphanage. We will shelter you.”
Adrian grabbed his arm. “Don’t put yourselves in danger on my account. I could never live with it if you were hurt trying to help me.”
“We will use wisdom,” Darrien reassured.
“And wisdom would say that we’ll have to sprint all the way to work if we don’t want to be late!” Noah exclaimed, suddenly remembering the time. He snatched up the satchel Sabina had finished packing for them. Darrien jumped up and gave Adrian a light slap on the back. “I’ll see you tonight,” he said. He called goodbye to the others and hurried after Noah.
Their steps sounded down the hall and door opened and closed.
In the silence that followed, no one said anything.
At last, Sabina let out a breath and turned on Adrian with a warm smile. “Are you hungry?”
“No, just tired,” Adrian replied. “I didn’t sleep at all last night.”
“We’ll find you a place to sleep,” Sabina said. “There are extra rooms and beds upstairs. There used to be several children here, but most have been adopted. Now I just have my three boys left.” She smiled at them as she said it. Then she turned to Alicia. “Would you be able to finish up down her?”
The other girl nodded.
Sabina smiled at Adrian. “Come, let’s get you to bed.”
Adrian rose and followed her, Joseph trailing behind. The boy found himself strangely drawn to the young soldier, and he hoped he would be able to talk with him again.
Sabina pushed open one of the doors at the end of the upstairs hall and stepped into the room. The window was open, and fresh air filled the bedroom. The bed was neatly made, and there was a desk, chair, clothes-chest, and washstand. “I keep the rooms aired and ready in case anyone ever comes to us,” Sabina explained. “Don’t hesitate to ask for anything. The room is yours. Just keep it reasonably neat, and no boots on the bed.”
Joseph grinned; it was the exact same thing Sabina had said to every boy that had sought refuge in the little orphanage.
“Yes mam,” Adrian replied. He looked over the little room and slowly stepped into it. He moved to the window and stood there a moment before moving to the table, bed, and desk, trailing his fingers over each thing as he went. At last, he stopped and turned toward Sabina. “I’ve never had such a lovely room. Thank you very much.”
Sabina smiled warmly. “I’m so glad you find it comfortable. Like I said, don’t hesitate to ask for anything, and I’ll see what I can find.”
“Thank you,” Adrian replied.
Sabina smiled and backed out, gently pulling Joseph with her, and closed the door. She hurried downstairs to start the day’s work. Joseph stood in the hall for a moment, and then smiled. As he walked down the stairs, he had one thought; Adrian is one of the family now.
***
The early afternoon found Joseph laying on the floor with Asher and Eric. The three of them were deep in a game of shooting stones. Sabina was sewing patches on the boys’ clothes, and occasionally being enticed to come and play. Alicia had gone into town to see what could be found at the market.
Joseph eyed the group of smooth shiny stones in the middle. He set his own against the floor and shot it. It slid over the wood and crashed into the others, launching two out of the pile. Joseph gathered them up and Asher prepared to launch his. “Sabina, what do we say if the soldiers ask where Adrian is?” Eric wondered.
Asher paused, and all three looked at Sabina.
Sabina lowered her sewing with a thoughtful frown. “Well, you couldn’t tell them.”
“But that would be lying!” Asher exclaimed. “You told us never to lie.”
“I know,” Sabina replied. “God doesn’t want us to lie, but in a time like this, it is right.”
Joseph’s eyebrows drew together. “Why?”
Sabina hesitated, trying to figure out a way to answer. At last, she looked up. “Do you remember the story of Moses?”
The boys nodded.
“Well, as you know, Pharaoh said to kill all the baby boys. Now, there were two midwives who wouldn’t do that. When Pharaoh asked them why they weren’t killing the babies, they lied and said that they were all girl babies, or that the babies were born before they could get there. Not only did God see this as right, but he blessed the two women and gave them many children of their own. Many, many years later, Joshua sent spies into the land of Canaan. A Canaanite woman hid them in her home. When the soldiers asked where the spies were, the woman lied and said they had already gone, giving the soldiers false directions. Because of this, God saved her and her whole family. She became part of the royal linage, and was a great, great grandmother of Jesus Christ!” Sabina explained.
“So, lying to protect Adrian would be right?” Joseph asked.
“Yes,” Sabina agreed. “If we tell the soldiers the truth, they will kill Adrain. To protect him, we cannot tell the guards the truth. We are not bearing false testimony against someone, we are not deceiving for personal profit and gain, and we are not denying or suppressing the truth about God. There are many times when those who follow God have lied to protect the innocent and the righteous. And there were even times when God told his servants how to lie if they were questioned. So, in a case like this, to tell a lie would be the right thing to do.”
The boys nodded solemnly and turned back to their game, satisfied with the answer. A voice spoke from the doorway, startling them all. “What was the woman’s name?”
Sabina smiled up at Adrian, who stood leaning against the doorpost. “Her name was Rehab.”
Adrian stepped into the room and came to Sabina. “Will you tell me more stories about God’s people?”
“Of course,” she replied.
Adrian sat on the floor at her feet, and the little boys gathered around, their game forgotten at the prospect of a story.
“Did Noah ever tell you about Daniel and his three friends?” Sabina asked.
“No,” Adrian replied. “Will you tell me?”
Sabina glanced down at her work and set another patch in place before continuing. “A long time ago, the Israelites–– God’s people–– were conquered by the Babylonians. They had sinned against God, and God had warned them many times to turn back to Him, but His people turned to the false gods instead. So, God withdrew his protection, and they were captured. Now, among those taken into captivity were three boys, not too much older than Joseph. They loved God, and strove to follow him even in a strange land surrounded by enemies…”
Sabina went on to tell of the faithfulness of Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, in the smallest things, to their courage and faith in the face of death. Adrian and the boys listened in rapt attention, hanging on her ever word.
For Adrian, the story was new, and he could hardly breathe as he drank in every word.
To the three boys, the story was old and dearly beloved, and they listened with pleasure and delight as Sabina told it.
When she finished the story of the trial Daniel’s three friends faced, there was a collective breath of relief from her listeners.
“Did that truly happen?” Adrian asked in awe. “Just like that?”
“Yes,” Sabina replied. “It’s written down in the Bible. I would be happy to show you the place.”
“I love this story,” Asher sighed. “My favorite part is when the angel comes into the fire and scares the king and his men.”
“Me too,” Eric agreed.
“I like the part when the king tells them to bow down to his god, and they won’t,” Adrian replied. “They had such faith. To look at him and say that God could save them, but even if He didn’t, they would still believe. To me that’s breathtaking.”
“That part is my favorite part too,” Joseph agreed.
“They knew God could save them–– that He had the power and ability to do so–– yet even if He didn’t, they were ready to die rather than bend the knee to false gods,” Adrian said. He stared at the floor for a moment, and then added in a quiet voice, “I want faith like that.”
“God will give you faith and strength if you but ask Him,” Sabina replied.
At that moment, there was a pounding on the door. Sabina rose and crossed to the window. She lifted the curtain a crack and peered out. Slowly she closed it again and spoke in a calm but authoritative tone. “Eric, go put Adrian’s sword and cloak under the mattress, he took them off in his room. Joseph, go take Adrian to the cellar and show him where to hide. Asher, cover up the trap door again as soon as they go down.”
The four scrambled to their feet and scattered to do as she said, knowing full well what her words meant.
The soldiers had come for Adrian.
There was a louder pounding on the door, and Sabina moved slowly toward it. “Just one moment!” she called out.
In the kitchen, Joseph yanked aside a large crate of potatoes. He ran his fingers along the cracks in the floor until he found the small ledge of the door. He yanked it open and motioned for Adrian to climb in. The young soldier slid off the edge and his feet found the ladder. He scrambled down, and Joseph followed rapidly after him. “Make sure to sprinkle more dirt and sweep up the marks,” he said to Asher.
Asher nodded and closed the door. He hauled the box back over it and swept up a handful of dirt to sprinkle around the edges, as the dirt that had fallen off the potatoes had been before it. Then he grabbed up a broom and swept up the tell-tale streaks of dirt. He continued to sweep the room, deciding it was a good thing to be doing when the soldiers came in.
Sabina’s voice was coming closer, followed by the tramp of boots. “Can I get you anything to drink? All we have is water, I’m afraid.”
“Get it,” was the sharp reply.
Sabina entered the kitchen, followed by four guards. They all looked to be about Noah’s age or a little older. Sabina glanced at Asher and then moved to get water.
“How many people live in this house?” demanded one of the soldiers.
“It changes all the time, this is an orphanage,” Sabina calmly replied as she poured the water into cups.
“How many adults?” demanded the same soldier.
“Four— Myself, one who has gone to market, and two who are at work,” Sabina told him. She turned and began passing out the cups. Two of the soldiers took them with sharp jerks, the third wouldn’t make eye-contact, and the fourth gave her a sincere smile and nodded.
Sabina stepped back and moved to place the table between her and the men, though not obviously. “May I ask why you are here?”
“You can ask, but we don’t have to say,” one said sharply.
“Maybe it was to visit you, pretty,” a second added with a leer.
“Quiet, you two,” said the soldier who had smiled at Sabina. “We’re here to search the house,” he added, turning to her.
“For something in particular, or just as a normal precaution?” Sabina asked.
“We’re looking for––” the soldier broke off as steps sounded. The four men spun as Eric came to the door. He stopped short and stared at the soldiers. Then he ran to Asher and hid behind him.
“What was he doing?” one soldier demanded.
“Making the beds,” Sabina replied.
One of the nastier soldiers held out his cup. “Get me more water.”
Sabina reached out across the table, and he took a step forward, handing the cup to her. She turned and filled it, one eye on the soldier. She crossed back and lent over the table again, holding the cup out to him. He reached out to take it, and then grabbed her wrist. “Bring it over here darling,” he said with a laugh, trying to pull her around the table.
“Let her go!” the friendliest soldier exclaimed.
“Stay out of it,” the other snapped.
“Let go!” Sabina cried, twisting her wrist in his grasp.
“Let her go!” Asher yelled, clenching his small fists.
“Shut up,” the man snapped. “Hugo, deal with him if he causes trouble.”
“No! Leave him be!” Sabina screamed, trying to wrench free.
“Leave her alone, Alexander,” commanded the soldier who had spoken up for Sabina before.
“Hugo, keep him off me,” Alexander ordered.
The next moment Asher had lunged at the soldier, his small first flying. “You leave Sabina be!” he yelled.
Alexander grabbed Asher’s vest and slammed the boy to the floor.
Sabina shrieked.
“Alright, that’s enough!” the other soldier yelled.
He took a step forward, but Hugo yanked him back. “Don’t make me use force, Julian.”
Alexander let out a curse as Sabina dug her nails into his hand. “Get over here, you little wench,” he spat, yanking her to the side of the table.
Eric was wailing and Asher and gotten back on his feet. He lunged at Alexander again, but the quiet soldier grabbed the back of his vest, holding him back. Asher was sobbing wildly, his small fists lashing out at anything near him. Sabina was twisting in Alexander’s grasp, and she scratched him. He cursed and struck her hard in the face. Sabina slammed against the table, gasping for breath.
Julian gave Hugo a blow to the ribs, but Hugo tripped him, and the young soldier fell.
Eric started screaming.
At that moment, a commanding voice spoke. “All of you, enough!”
Everyone froze, and all eyes turned to the doorway. An imperial Lieutenant stood in there, his eyes flashing. “I said search for Adrain Damoss, not harass the occupants of the house,” he snapped. “Hugo, get over here. Now! Julian, off the floor. Alexander, get away from that girl. Kasper, let the boy go.”
The soldiers did as they were told, their expressions guilty except for Julian, who just looked relieved.
The Lieutenant glared at his men, and they cowered away from him. Then he turned and hurried to Sabina. She was sitting on the floor looking dazed, her back against the table leg. Asher was crouched beside her, gently stroking her face. The Lieutenant dropped to one knee. “Are you alright, miss?”
Sabina nodded; her eyes closed. “I just got the breath knocked out of me,” she whispered.
The Lieutenant took her hand and gently helped her to her feet. “I’m sorry. My men acted like barbarians. They will be delt with,” he added, shooting a glare in their direction. He turned back to Sabina. “After all, you are a citizen of the Empire, now, and as such you are under certain protection.”
“Thank you,” Sabina replied. She looked up at the Lieutenant and froze. Her face paled and she grew stiff.
The Lieutenant looked concerned. “Are you alright.”
Sabina nodded shakily.
The Lieutenant helped her sit down on the bench by the table. Then he stood in front of her. “I would like to leave you in peace after this, but I have my orders.
“I understand,” Sabina replied.
Eric pushed past the Lieutenant and threw his arms around Sabina. She hugged him close, gently stroking his back. Asher stood beside her, his fists clenched at his side and his feet apart. He was clearly sizing up the Lieutenant.
The Lieutenant glanced at Asher and cleared his throat. He turned back to Sabina. “Where is the soldier?”
“What soldier?” Sabina asked, still rubbing Eric’s back.
“An Imperial soldier,” the Lieutenant replied. “He’s about my height. He may have been dressed as a civilian, though only his uniform was missing from his room.”
“I have seen many such young men,” Sabina said slowly.
“He would have been seeking shelter. He will tell you many things, but what he will not tell you is that he is a killer and is bent on wiping out every Ardantin in his path. We are here to protect you. If he is here, hand him over before he kills you and many others,” the Lieutenant said.
Sabina eyes drifted to Julian, and his gaze dropped immediately. She looked back at the Lieutenant. “I have not seen or heard of any such Imperial soldier.”
“He’s upstairs, go bring him down,” the Lieutenant commanded.
“There is no one upstairs,” Sabina replied without hesitation.
“Kaspar, search it,’ the Lieutenant ordered.
Kaspar nodded and walked out of the room. They heard him go up the stairs and begin his search.
“If he finds anyone, I cannot protect you from the consequences,” the lieutenant said.
“Sir, as I said before, there is no one up there, and I have never before seen this man of whom you speak,” Sabina told him.
The lieutenant turned to Asher. “Is anyone hiding in this house?”
“No,” Asher replied.
“Has any person from the Empire entered this house?” the lieutenant asked.
“You did, sir,” Asher replied.
The Lieutenant looked at him for a long moment, and Asher matched his stare, his eyes still flashing after the fight.
Steps came down the stairs, and Kaspar returned. “There is no one.”
The Lieutenant looked hard at Sabina. Then he spoke without taking his eyes off her. “Kaspar, Julian, search the rest of the house.”
The two left to do his bidding, and the Lieutenant spoke. “If he is here, then we will find him. And when we do, there will be blood.”
***
Down in the cellar, Joseph and Adrian were crouched in a secret hideaway built out of empty storage boxes and crates. Noah had plans to build a better hiding place in the wall, but he had not been able to get the material to do so.
The two listened, hardly daring to breathe as the conversation went on. Adrian stiffened when he had heard Alexander harassing Sabina. A moment later there was the sound of a scuffle and screaming. Adrian half rose, but then sank back. His face was tight with worry and anger, and he clenched his fist. Joseph was watching him with wide, frightened eyes. “We have to help her!” he whispered.
Adrian shook his head, gritting his teeth. “If I go up there, they’ll kill her for hiding me. Staying hidden is the only way I can help.”
Joseph looked away. He sat rigid, his face white and hands clasped tightly together.
All at once they heard the commanding voice of the lieutenant, and the scuffle broke off at once. Adrian let out a breath of relief. “He’ll not harm them as long as they don’t find me,” he breathed in Joseph’s ear.
Joseph didn’t reply, but in the darkness, his hand crept timidly into Adrian’s. Adrian squeezed his hand and then put a reassuring arm about the boy’s shoulder.
The two listened to questions and answers, and the steps of the soldier searching upstairs. Then the Lieutenant’s voice sounded. “Kaspar, Julian, search the rest of the house.”
Adrian sucked in a sharp breath, and Joseph looked up at him in fright. “Are they coming?” he breathed.
“No,” Adrian replied under his breath.
“What’s wrong?” Joseph whispered.
“Hush,” Adrian breathed, putting a hand over the boy’s mouth.
The two sat in complete silence, listening to the steps of the soldiers as they searched the house. There were more steps, and then the scrap of something moving across the floor. “What’s this?” the Lieutenant asked.
“Potatoes,” Sabina’s voice replied.
“No, this,” came the Lieutenant’s voice. There was a bang as the trap door opened and light filtered into the cellar. Adrian stiffened and pulled Joseph close.
“That’s the cellar,” Sabina replied calmly. “It’s where we store odds-and-ends, and food— when we have it.”
“And fugitives?” the lieutenant demanded.
“No,” Sabina replied.
“I’ll look,” came Julian’s voice.
“Get a lantern,” the lieutenant ordered.
Steps crossed the floor and returned a few minutes later. Joseph wrapped both hands about Adrian’s arm and leaned against the soldier, his eyes tightly shut. Please God, help us! He begged silently.
They heard Julian climb down the steps, and then the small shafts of light that filtered into their hiding place began to wave about, as if cast by a rocking lantern. The light steadied, and the soldier’s steps began moving through the cellar. Joseph and Adrian were so silent that they could hear Julian’s breathing. He came closer, and the light moved along the hiding spot, flashing and flickering as it passed tiny gaps.
Then, it stopped.
Adrian’s hold tightened and Joseph’s throat went dry.
The box in front of them shifted, and the crate on top of it began to move. Adrian reached out a hand very carefully and grabbed hold of the crate. For a moment it wiggled as Julian tried to loosen it. Then, it stopped. Apparently, he didn’t want to risk knocking the pile down.
Adrian waited a moment, and then slowly dropped his arm, putting it about Joseph. The next moment, the crate was yanked away.
Adrian sucked in a sharp breath and pressed Joseph’s head against his shoulder, smothering the boy’s gasp of alarm.
Julian took a quick step back, catching his breath. Then he raised the lantern and stepped forward, looking at the two. Adrian looked up at him, his face white but set. Joseph still clung to him, and slowly looked up in terror at the soldier. Julian was looking straight at Adrian. Neither moved, and neither spoke. There was a look of confusion and reproach in Julian’s eyes, but he made no move.
The lieutenant’s voice broke the silence. “Julian, did you find anything?”
Julian swallowed hard and then spoke. “No sir, there is nothing.” He picked up the crate and rose, once more looking at Adrian. For a moment it looked as though he was going to say something. Then he shook his head and pushed the crate back. They heard his steps cross the floor and ascend the ladder. The trap door closed, and darkness fell over the cellar.
Adrian and Joseph waited in the darkness as the lieutenant gave an order and steps crossed overhead. Then they heard the door open and close.
Joseph was shaking so hard his teeth chattered. Adrian held the boy close, rubbing a hand over his back comfortingly.
At last, the trap door opened, and Sabina called down, “Adrian, it’s safe.”
Adrian carefully pushed the crates and boxes aside, and he and Joseph slipped out of the hiding space. They hurried to the ladder and clambered up. Joseph was first, and as soon as he was up, he threw himself at Sabina, clinging to her tightly. Sabina put her arms about him and watched as Adrian climbed up and closed the door, moving the crate back over it. He stood and turned to Sabina. “Are you hurt.”
She shook her head but was unable to speak. She let out a trembling breath and pushed a wave of hair behind her ear. “Are… are you alright?”
“Yes,” Adrian replied.
Joseph looked up at Sabina. “There’s a mark on your face! What happened?”
“One of the soldiers hit her,” Asher seethed.
“What?” Adrian exclaimed.
Sabina drew Joseph toward the table and slowly sat down on the bench, her arms still about him. She buried her face in his hair and her shoulder’s shook. Adrian started toward her and laid a hand on her shoulder. “Sabina, what’s wrong? Are you alright?”
“I… I’m not hurt bad. Just scared,” Sabina said in a trembling voice.
Adrian dropped his hand to his side and said nothing. Sabina looked up and wiped her eyes. She looked at Asher and Eric and beckoned them to come. They climbed up on the bench beside her and she smiled at them. “Well done,” she said softly. “And Asher, thank you for trying to protect me.”
He nodded, his eyes on the floor.
Sabina put a hand on his shoulder. “You did well. Both of you,” she added, looking at Eric.
Eric started crying again, and Sabina gently moved Joseph out of the way, she picked Eric up and held him on her lap, rocking gently. “Everyone is safe,” she said, softly. “I’m alright.”
Joseph stood next to Asher, both of them watching Sabina. She let out a slow breath and looked up at Adrian, blinking tears from her face. “I’m sorry, I was— when he opened the cellar, I thought… I thought he was going to find you and Joseph and…” her voice trailed off.
“He did find us,” Adrian said softly.
“What!” Sabina gasped. “Why didn’t he say so! Why did he lie?” Then her face went white. “It’s a trap! Do you think it’s a trap? Do you think they’re coming back?”
“No,” Adrian replied. “It’s no trap. Julian hid us on purpose.”
“Why?” Sabina asked.
Adrian swallowed hard. “He knows what they will do to me if I’m caught. He couldn’t bear to let that happen.”
“Why not?” Sabina asked softly.
Adrian hesitated a moment, and then looked straight at her. “Julian is my older brother.”
Man is born for the fight, to be forged and molded into a sharper, finer, stronger image of God
dun dun dun!
Man is born for the fight, to be forged and molded into a sharper, finer, stronger image of God
I was a little distratded during this chapter because I do disagree with you on weather or not it is okay for Christians to lie to protect others. However, I don’t really have a response to the arguments that Sabina gives and I belive this to be a tercarary issue, so unless you want to discus this, I’m willing to leave it be.
Nice job building the tension for Joseph and Adrian in the cellar.
Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah
This threw me off, becuse I almost always hear of them with the names Nebuchadnezzar gave them.
Adrian hesitated a moment, and then looked straight at her. “Julian is my older brother.”
Nice. And it wasn’t a super obvious, ‘oh, this guy is going to turn out to be his brother’ moment like I have seen on other things.
I find the names kind of funny because my dad has brothers names Adrian and Julian.
Oh. You are not the first I’ve heard to say that, but I don’t mind that you don’t agree. Sabina does voice my own beliefs however, so I won’t be changing this.
I would be interested in your reasons behind why you don’t agree with her/my reasoning. Though keep in mind I won’t be changing this scene, so if you find it a waste of time then don’t bother explaining.
Also, when it came down to it, Sabina told the truth in every possible way she could.
This threw me off, because I almost always hear of them with the names Nebuchadnezzar gave them.
Lol.
I really do not like that we know them by those names. I mean, first off, their Hebrew names are praises to God, and their Babylonian names are praises to the gods. Plus, to call them by these names would be such a high form of disrespect and denies their Hebrew heritage. I mean, we always refer to Daniel as Daniel. So why not the same for them?
Idk, it’s a pet peeve of mine.
Nice. And it wasn’t a super obvious, ‘oh, this guy is going to turn out to be his brother’ moment like I have seen on other things.
I find the names kind of funny because my dad has brothers names Adrian and Julian.
Wonderful! I’m glad it caught you by surprise. That was what I was hoping for!
Lol. That is so funny! Those names do go very well together, and they have always been favorites of mine!
Also, any thoughts on the Lieutenant? He’s an interesting character and I’d be curious to see what you think of him.
Man is born for the fight, to be forged and molded into a sharper, finer, stronger image of God
I would be interested in your reasons behind why you don’t agree with her/my reasoning. Though keep in mind I won’t be changing this scene, so if you find it a waste of time then don’t bother explaining.
To put it simply, it is impossible for God to lie (Hebrews 6:18). Now of course, things are different for God, but Jesus, in His time on Earth never lied, and if put in one of these situations where it might seem like He had to, he would not have. We also are to be imitators of Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1). If Christ would not lie, I don’t see why we should. I also belive there will never be a situation where we have to lie. (Also see Hebrew 4:15 and 1 Corinthians 10:13).
But yeah, completely understandable why you aren’t changing your mind. Sometimes characters have a mind of their own, eh?
Also, when it came down to it, Sabina told the truth in every possible way she could.
Yes, I did notice that and appreciate it.
I really do not like that we know them by those names. I mean, first off, their Hebrew names are praises to God, and their Babylonian names are praises to the gods. Plus, to call them by these names would be such a high form of disrespect and denies their Hebrew heritage. I mean, we always refer to Daniel as Daniel. So why not the same for them?
Probably because they are only refered to by the Hebrew names a few times. i belive they are referred to by their Babilonian names throughout the entire account of the Firey furnace.
Also, any thoughts on the Lieutenant? He’s an interesting character and I’d be curious to see what you think of him.
Wait a second, have we seen this lutenant before? Is this the same guy that was watching Aaron when the fountain broke open as they were tearing down the old meting hall?
I’m not exactly sure if I agree with you about God ever wanting Christians to lie, but I get that you’re voicing your own beliefs and I understand why you don’t want to change it. However, just be aware that it might be a slightly controversial topic.
Anyway, I love the plot twist. Great job with the details leading up to it like Adrian reacting to Julian’s name that made it more believable. And I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
(I would love to see a Julian/ Adrian scene now, btw. 🫣)
WE ARE REVIVING THE PROTECTION SQUAD! *steals Joseph, Julian, and Sabina from Ellette*
I understand both your points. However, there are many instances in the Bible when God blessed or rewarded people after they told lies to save the lives of innocent people. Sabina brought up two such instances.
And, God has also told people to withhold truth/miss-lead. Like in 1 Samuel 16
The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you grieve over Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil, and go. I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have provided for myself a king among his sons.”
And Samuel said, “How can I go? If Saul hears it, he will kill me.”
And the Lord said, “Take a heifer with you and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the Lord.’ And invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what you shall do. And you shall anoint for me him whom I declare to you.”
Samuel did what the Lord commanded and came to Bethlehem.
So while Samuel doesn’t lie, he doesn’t tell the full truth either. His actions are misleading because they are supposed to make Saul believe he is going there for one reason, when really he is going for another.
I could go on with this, and I do have a question. However, if you two don’t want to carry on the conversation any longer then ignore my question.
(I know this is cliche, but it’s still a valid question.)
Question:
What would you do if you lived in Germany during WWII and you were hiding a Jewish couple and their baby. The Nazi’s came pounding on the door and said, “Are you hiding Jews?”/”where are the Jews?” etc. (which btw they often asked this type of question to scare people into telling the truth)
What would you say?
Would you tell the truth?anyways.
@Hybrid
(I would love to see a Julian/ Adrian scene now, btw. 🫣)
Oh indeed. If I’m reading this right, you want to see Julian and Adrian interact again?
Hmmm.
You may get your wish.
Or you may not.
Glad you like the plot twist btw.
@Linus
Probably because they are only refered to by the Hebrew names a few times. i belive they are referred to by their Babilonian names throughout the entire account of the Firey furnace.
True, but Daniel is called Belshazzar more times then he’s called Daniel in the book of Daniel.
Wait a second, have we seen this lutenant before? Is this the same guy that was watching Aaron when the fountain broke open as they were tearing down the old meting hall?
Good memory.
You have also met him another time as well.
However, that still doesn’t answer my question. 😉
What do you think of him as a character?
Man is born for the fight, to be forged and molded into a sharper, finer, stronger image of God
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