Spellscribed: Conviction (48 page)

The dim glow faded as he cried, plunging him into darkness. It was over.

Epilogue

Bridget stood before a wooden door at a familiar home in Balator. The yard was well kept, and the smell of smelt steel seemed as permanent a fixture as the cornerstones of the building. She was not wearing her armor, and she was carrying only one weapon with her. She hesitated for several long seconds, looking back across the street. Gwen and her children were resting at the lowest bowl of the mountain, and would make the journey up when it came time to ascend.

She built up her resolve, and pounded on the door. A few minutes later the door cracked and Leona, Joven’s mother, opened the door.

“Bridget!” she exclaimed happily. Her expression darkened when she saw the look on the Draugnoa’s face, and her gaze drifted down to the weapon in her hands. The old woman sank to the ground, her eyes stinging with tears.

Bridget carried the Inheritance. The axe had somehow been stained in the dragon’s blood, taking on a reddish tint to the otherwise milky white steel. Bridget had tried cleaning it several dozen times on the journey back, to no avail.

“I’m sorry.” Bridget managed to say, her own face wet with tears. “I could only bring this back.”

“Did… did he die protecting the Spengur?” Leona asked, looking up at her. “Did he die with honor?”

Bridget nodded, trying to smile. “He died killing a dragon. The biggest one I’ve ever seen or heard of.” She told the mother. “He had saved Endrance from the beast. It was a glorious and honorable death.”

Leona nodded. “What of Endrance?” she asked. “How is he doing?”

Bridget shook her head. “I… I don’t know.” She said. “The Archmagus says he’s alive, but trapped somewhere.”

Leona looked pained. “I hope he gets back soon.” She said. “We need someone like him more now than ever.”

“Listen.” Bridget said. “I have more news.”

“What?” Leona asked. “What else is there?”

Bridget reached down and helped Leona rise. “I have a story to tell, about Joven.” She said. “And the legacy he left behind.”

END

SPELLSCRIBED WILL CONTINUE…