Empire Asunder BoxSet by Michael Jason Brandt

Author:Michael Jason Brandt [Brandt, Michael Jason]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2019-01-05T22:00:00+00:00

9

Gothenberg

Once again, snow halted the progress of the harpa caravan. Winter had finally reached down from the mountains onto the Gothic plains.

Light and unremarkable at first, by the third day it fell fast and thick, and the caravan could no longer disregard its effects. Summer called for a premature end to the day’s travels, allowing extra time to prepare a camp with extra protection from the vexing precipitation. This came in the form of a series of overhanging canvases suspended between wagons and propped up by long poles, creating an enormous canopy. Still, some snow got through a hole in the center required to let campfire smoke out. This fire blazed bigger and stronger than ever before, and some of the soldiers were sent out to gather extra firewood to keep it going through the night and beyond. Shortly after venturing beyond the canopy, however, the raging storm forced them back.

It slackened slightly on the third day, and Corporal Mercer sought to take advantage.

The atmosphere beneath the canopy was cozy, and Yohan loath to leave it. But he reluctantly went with Brody on a wood-gathering run. What they picked up was already soaked, and stores would need to dry before becoming useful. He wondered if they were wasting time, collecting fuel that would no longer be needed by the time it was ready.

Not that he minded. Conversations with his loquacious friend were less common now that the other soldier was spending so much time with Meadow, and Yohan more with Summer. Expecting an opportunity to be reminded of just how much he appreciated the cheerful banter, Yohan was instead struck by Brody’s unusual reserve.

They approached a pair of trees, looking for low and fallen branches.

Yohan attempted to lighten the mood by emulating Meadow’s title and tone. “Is all well, Soldier Brody?”

A wry smile was his reward. “Aye, Brother. All is well. Just thoughtful these days.”

“That is unlike you.”

“Aye. I become more like you each day.”

“And I like you, I find.”

Brody laughed. “So I’ve perceived. Dancing, smiling. Why, last eve I believe I heard you laugh. These harpa have had quite the effect on you.”

Yohan could not deny it. “I feel a weight has been lifted.”

Brody balanced one armload of sticks while he placed a hand on Yohan’s shoulder. “I am happy for you, Brother.”

“Should I be happy for you, in return? Where have these newfound thoughts led?”

A pause, as his friend considered. “When this is over, I am staying with them.”

“Aye? And what of joining the Swordthanes? What of your Proving?”

“Bah,” Brody scoffed. “A fanciful dream, nothing more. I’m not one of the greatest swordsmen in the empire. It’s become clear to me that I’m not even the best swordsman in this squad.” A hint of sadness mingled with the usual cheer.

“Don’t sell yourself short, Brother.”

Brody laughed again. He took his hand from Yohan’s shoulder to scoop up more sticks. “Sometimes a man is fortunate enough to decide between two dreams. Only a fool wouldn’t choose the one just in front of him.

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