He could still feel the flames burning, searing his face and body as he stood motionless. The smoke rose and the orange inferno illuminated the night sky. 12 year-old Graden had returned from a successful hunt, eager to show his mother his kill. Now, he stood dazed as his village was consumed. He swooned for an instant, then staggered away and back into the nearby woods. They were gone. His mother, father, and 10 year-old sister, consumed in moments by the merciless blaze.
Graden stumbled into a thicket and collapsed under a huge oak, exhausted and consumed by grief. He lay in a daze, trying to recall the day’s events. He gradually remembered the soldiers that came to to the village early that morning, demanding more grain. Graden’s father, Gerith, humbly but firmly explained that the villagers were starving and that no more food could be spared. The soldiers had cursed Graden’s father, vowing to return for their tribute, one way or another.
The king’s men had taken everything. Graden wept bitterly for what seemed like hours, gradually falling into a troubled, nightmarish sleep. When he finally woke with the late morning sun, he knew what he would do. What of the old warrior rumored to be living in these woods? Graden would seek him out and beg the warrior to train him, to prepare him. He did not know how or when, but he knew only one thing. The king and his men would have to pay a heavy price.
Fantasy
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I want to know more! I hope you continue the story. Your storytelling is very easy to read.
Thank you, I wasn’t sure about this one but I appreciate the feedback and will continue!
This sounds like a good lead in for an epic story.