Aiden's Quest

by Dane Bagley

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  “Terrence won’t back down.”

  “I expect you are right,” said Aiden.

  “What is wrong with him?” said Daxton.

  Aiden didn’t answer.

  “Daxton,” said Jashion, entering the tent. Daxton turned and nodded his head, wanting to continue to converse with Aiden.

  “What do you know?” said Daxton.

  “You should talk to Cards,” said Aiden.

  “I have. He said to trust you.” Aiden nodded. “I do trust you. But, I don’t trust Terrence—not anymore.”

  “Friend,” said Aiden, “you’ve found your place in this world. Perhaps, I have found mine. Terrence’s place was not here. That is no rebuke of us. He has no quarrel with us. He will avenge his brother.”

  Daxton shook his head and muttered, “…he’ll die trying.”

  “Death surrounds us,” said Aiden. “We are not immortal. We all die trying—except those who don’t try.” Daxton looked into Aiden’s fierce and kind eyes. “Until again, my friend.”

  “Until again,” said Daxton and the friends embraced.

  “I regret that we’ll miss your wedding.”

  Daxton nodded. “Jashion, until again.”

  “Aye, until again, it is.” Jashion embraced Daxton warmly.

  Daxton left the tent only a tad bit comforted. Death does surround us, but within these walls we are protected. They’ll all get themselves killed. Daxton was glad he was no fool.