The Adventures of Theophilus Thistle

by David Partelow

  Crescent Moon

  The Lunarian Chronicles

  Book Two

  The Adventures

  of

  Theophilus Thistle

  By

  David Partelow

  The Adventures of Theophilus Thistle

  The Complete Tales

  Copyright © 2020 David Partelow

  All rights reserved

  Cover by OliviaProDesign

  Names, characters, places, adventures and misadventures are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, elves, pantheryns, dwarves, dragons, gnomes or other magical creatures, living or dead, events or locales is completely coincidental

  ISBN: 9798653989391

  DEDICATION

  The character you are about to meet again, who goes by the name Theophilus Thistle, is loyal, trustworthy and the type of friend you would want to have in life. That is why this book is dedicated to amazing friend of mine who has, for over 20 years, showed me what true friendship and loyalty is all about. This book is dedicated to you, Misty. Thank you for somehow always finding a way to be there.

  The Battle

  Lightning peppered the night sky, illuminating briefly the unrelenting assault of rain outside. The thunder was quick to follow, for the storm was close and wickedly fierce. The few library patrons brave enough to endure the weather looked up from the books as the lights flickered with the most recent thunderclap. Satisfied that the power would remain on at least for the moment, the patrons resumed their readings and studies.

  From his post at the front desk, Mr. Dackett grunted as he gauged the storm pressing at the windows. The ancient looking guardian of books had seen far worse during his tenure as librarian. Had it been any other day, Mr. Dackett might have even taken some inward pleasure at the unease pouring from the library patrons, but today was not one of those days. No, his thoughts were elsewhere, where they needed to be, for very soon his inevitable struggle would continue once again.

  He had to be prepared.

  With his wrinkled hands resting upon the counter, Mr. Dackett looked grimly toward the front doors. He could see nothing save for darkness and rain, but this did nothing to bolster his hopes. Taking a moment to adjust his battered glasses and straighten his shirt, the librarian resumed his hard gaze. A patron came by to ask him a question. Mr. Dackett waved her toward his assistant. When the patron tried to press further, the glance he offered was enough to send the patron quickly away.

  There was another rumble then, but this time it was no thunder. Mr. Dackett’s stomach reminded him that it was time for his break. He paid his hunger no mind though. That is exactly what his enemy would want today, for him to leave his post. Mr. Dackett could already imagine him swooping in at such a moment, that infectious smile never leaving his face as he did. The old man shook his head with grim purpose. Not on this day. Not in this storm.

  Crossing his arms, Mr. Dackett spoke to his assistant, never taking his intent away from the doors. “Look alive, Heidi. He’ll be here any minute. I can just feel it,” he said, his words offered up like a bad taste in his mouth.

  Slowly pulling some of the strands of her short hair behind her ear, Heidi regarded Mr. Dackett curiously. Pursing her lips, she shook her head. Heidi held soft, brown eyes full of intelligence and curiosity. It was her intelligence that allowed Mr. Dackett to take notice of her and overlook the occasional dyed streaks through her auburn hair. Currently, the old librarian could feel her annoyance as she watched him curiously.

  At last, Heidi could take it no longer. “While I don’t understand this unhealthy obsession you have, I don’t think he is coming today,” she said. Her voice was firm, yet pleasant.

  Mr. Dackett grunted. “That’s exactly what he wants me to think. You will see, Heidi. Don’t let his smile and love of books fool you. He’s a crafty one and he’ll be here,” he said.

  Mr. Dackett didn’t have to look at her to know that Heidi was rolling her eyes at him. “You know, I go to school with the guy. He’s nothing like this villain you make him out to be,” she offered.

  At this, Mr. Dackett did turn to look at his assistant. “I never said he was a villain,” he offered with stern earnestness. “He’s just trouble. He may have all the best intentions in the world, but trouble is still trouble.”

  Heidi turned and gathered a stack of books. “If you say so,” she said, still shaking her head. “Can I put these away now?”

  Mr. Dackett held up a hand to stop her. “No. Stay here. I’ll need you to hold on to the book while I deal with him,” he said.

  “You know you could just…hide it,” said Heidi.

  Mr. Dackett barked a harsh laugh. “Oh, he’d find it. I would be content that it was hidden, and I would go on break and that’s when he would strike. He would wait around long enough for me to return so that I would know that he won. I am not going to have that today, Heidi. The book stays here,” he said.

  Heidi groaned, running her hand over the book resting between them. “I still don’t understand this game. I mean, is there an inside joke or something? There’s only one page inside this thing that has any words at all. Not much of a read, so there has got to be something more to this little dance. At least I hope there is, so I don’t have to conclude you both have gone mad,” she said.

  Mr. Dackett eyed her again. “That is a tale for another day, young lady,” he said gruffly. “For now, simply focus upon the principle of the thing. Crescent Moon is not to leave this library.”

  “Whatever you say, sir,” said Heidi. There was just enough trace of sarcasm in her voice to reveal to Mr. Dackett what she really thought about the whole ordeal.

  Mr. Dackett was not swayed by Heidi’s apprehension. "Mark my words, young lady. You cannot let your guard down for a second or-" he trailed off at the sound of a door closing. Focusing on the new patron, his eyes narrowed again. "Just as I thought," he growled.

  There at the entrance was a young man, soaking wet and obscured by the hood from his jacket covering his face. Unzipping his coat revealed a shirt showcasing a love for superheroes as he wiped his hands on his damp blue jeans. Removing the hood freed wild, hastily combed hair and an earnest, undeniable grin. Setting his eyes on the librarian, the young man stepped forward as the two exchanged a long, grim stare down.

  Mr. Dackett leaned forward, pressing his hands upon the counter again. "Mathias."

  Mathias Engleborn faced the librarian's gaze with a defiant smile. "Mr. Dackett," he replied before strolling confidently toward the counter.

  Mr. Dackett slid the book to his assistant sternly. "Guard it with your life," he ordered before glaring at his perceived tormentor. "I know why you are here. Save us both a lot of time and stress by giving up now while you’re ahead. You are not leaving with it."

  Mathias never let his jubilance falter as he feigned pain and confusion. "Why, Mr. Dackett, whatever do you mean?"

  Mr. Dackett practically growled at him then. "Don't play games with me, boy. You've had your fun and it is time to move on. Your father isn't here to support you, so don't try anything that is going to get you banned from further visits," he said.

  "That's kind of harsh, don't you think?" whispered Heidi.

  "Stay out of this," replied Mr. Dackett through gritted teeth. "It is still the principle of the thing."

  "If you say so," mumbled Heidi.

  Mathias stopped fearlessly at the counter, placing his hands in front of Mr. Dackett's and leaning closer to the aged librarian. The two stared intensely, neither giving ground or backing away. Heidi watched the exchange with casual amusement, still trying to understand what all the fuss w
as about. Another thunderclap trembled the sky, making the patrons uneasy again as the lights flickered. Only Mathias and Mr. Dackett did not move.

  At last, Mr. Dackett spoke. "You know where the fiction section is, Engleborn. I suggest you resign yourself to it at once," he said.

  "No need," said Mathias as he pointed to the book in Heidi's hands. "What I want is right here."

  Mr. Dackett motioned again to the fiction section. "Your head in the clouds has clearly affected your hearing. Fiction section or the exit. Your choice."

  "I'd like to check out Crescent Moon, please and thank you," countered Mathias.

  "There is no way I am letting you check out that book again," said Mr. Dackett.

  Mathias nodded triumphantly. "Oh, I know. That is why I am glad this library has in its employ a good friend of mine. Heidi, if you would please," he said.

  Mr. Dackett's fierce gaze faltered. "What?"

  Moving his hand in Heidi's direction, the young woman slid Crescent Moon across the counter. The book sailed easily, coming to stop in Mathias's grip. Taking the book, Mathias turned swiftly from the counter before Mr. Dackett could react. Mr. Dackett looked between Heidi and Mathias with equal parts of shock and fury.

  Mathias gave Heidi a grin and salute. "I appreciate the assist," he said.

  "This makes us even. Finally," said Heidi.

  Mathias removed his backpack before carefully placing his acquisition into it and returning the pack to his back. "You are a worthy adversary, Mr. Dackett. But not even you can be prepared for everything," he said.

  Mr. Dackett's balled fists went to his hips as he stared icily at Mathias. "That was low, even for you, to use the one kid I can actually tolerate in this library," he snarled.

  "Why thank you, Mr. Dackett," said Heidi.

  "You be quiet," said Mr. Dackett.

  Mathias offered a deep bow. "Well it appears our business is concluded for now. I bid you a fond adieu for now, Mr. Dackett," he said before turning to the exit.

  "Mathias!"

  Something in Mr. Dackett's voice gave Mathias pause, for he turned to look again at him. Somehow, the old librarian looked even older in those moments. For the briefest of moments, Mathias could see genuine concern wash across his face before the grimness returned. "You be sure to take care of that book no matter what," he said.

  Mathias nodded to Mr. Dackett. "You have my word," he said solemnly before he exited the library and delved into the unrelenting storm.

  With Mathias gone, the library was quiet save for the rain for almost a whole minute. Mr. Dackett stared angrily at where Mathias had stood moments before. It was clear by his eyes that an even greater storm was brewing inside him as he processed what had just happened. Straightening his collared shirt and sweater vest, the old librarian cleared his throat before slowly turning toward his assistant.

  Heidi offered an awkward smile. “I suppose this is the time that you and I have ‘a talk’ about my performance and future at the library?” she asked.

  “Indeed,” said Mr. Dackett coolly. “I’ve some choice words and extra duties for traitors,” he said.

  Heidi shrugged innocently. “In my opinion I was just doing my job, sir, and encouraging reading for my generation. That is pretty important when you think about it,” she said.

  “Quiet,” said Mr. Dackett as he turned away from her. “I am still deciding the sentence for your crimes. Luckily for you, this evening can’t get any worse,” he replied.

  Just then, another assault of lightning and thunder littered the air, closer and louder than before. This time, as the electricity fluttered, it lost its battle and gave way to darkness. The patrons of the library offered a chorus of collective groans as they procured their cell phones for light. Mr. Dackett shook his head, forgetting that fate held ears and could be quite cruel.

  Amused, Heidi’s voice was easily heard in the darkness. “Mr. Dackett, I do believe you stand corrected,” she offered.

  “Not another word, Heidi,” said Mr. Dackett.

  Rushing through the unrelenting rain, Mathias took great care with his hastened steps as he covered his backpack with his body. The downpour fueled his motivation to reach the car where his mom patiently waited. Opening the door, Mathias hurled himself in with enough force to get rain on his mother. Sarah Engleborn shook her head at her son as he placed his bag between his legs and buckled his seat belt.

  “I would be mad for the unexpected bath, but you were quick as promised,” she said as she looked at her watch. “Four minutes, forty-nine seconds. You made it with time to spare.”

  Mathias grinned contentedly as he laid his head back against the seat. “No dishes tonight,” he breathed triumphantly.

  Sarah checked the road before signaling and pulling out into traffic. The wipers worked feverishly to keep up with the assault outside. Mathia’s mom kept the speed low and inched their way back home through the limited visibility. Next to her, Mathias fidgeted with excitement as he looked out the window and willed them to be home.

  “You’re too excited for your own good,” observed Sarah.

  Mathias shrugged as he ran his hands through his drenched hair. “Must be all that sugar I had after dinner,” he mused, jokingly.

  “You got it, again,” said his mother, smiling.

  “Like there was ever any doubt,” replied Mathias.

  Sarah shook her head. “Either that book is extraordinary, or you really do like giving Mr. Dackett a headache,” he said.

  Mathias gave her a look as he held his hands out. “And why does it have to be one or the other?”

  Sara nodded as she kept her gaze fixed on the road. “Fair enough,” she said absently. “I just don’t know where you get this craziness from,” she added playfully.

  “Oh, I am sure,” countered Mathias.

  Pulling into the driveway, both Mathias and Sarah sprinted inside, removing their wet shoes and jackets at the door. Mathias’s dad Mathew marveled at the swiftness of their return. “I think I need to send you with Matty to the library more often,” he said to his wife. “That has got to be some kind of record.”

  “Har, har,” replied Mathias as he held up his backpack and headed to his room. “Lucky for you I have some reading to do. Thanks, mom!” he added before entering his room and shutting the door.

  Mathew looked at his wife. “Crescent Moon again?” he asked.

  Sarah nodded. “Crescent Moon again,” she affirmed. But despite their ribbing nature, Mathias was already too focused on his next adventure.

  Thus returned to his room, Mathias carefully opened his damp pack and procured Crescent Moon, freeing it of the confines protecting it from the elements. The young man took a moment to relish the feeling of it again in his hands, faintly feeling the book’s magic trickle through his fingers. Still grinning, Mathias leaped casually upon his bed before running a hand over the ancient book cover.

  “It’s good to see you again, my friend,” said Mathias as he took another second to savor the moment. “I wonder what adventures you have in store for me today.”

  Mathias held the moment until his enthusiasm could stand it no longer. With his anticipation mounting, he opened the old book and was met again with the scant, cryptic lines that held lock and key over the mysteries that were Crescent Moon. This time, Mathias confidently ran his hand over the page, recounting the words he now knew by heart, offering them to the air with the utmost confidence.

  Wars must be waged, and battles fought

  Where heroes stand with conscience clear

  As Light against the growing Dark

  To face the blight and rising doom

  With the Dreamer stand above all fear

  And hold the fate at Crescent Moon

  Spoken aloud, Mathias’s belief and the offered words invigorated the pages once more, revealing an entire new adventure. Mathias’s heart skipped as he watched the magic set its course. The previous tale was gone, but something in the title pushed Mathias passed any mournful thou
ghts as he excitedly looked forward to the next chapter of the story. The recognition as well as his love for the character pushed his excitement beyond the tipping point.

  “The Adventures of Theophilus Thistle,” whispered Mathias as he turned the page and started to read.

  Suddenly, the world around him swirled again and he was magically swept within the story.

  Part One

  Chapter One

  The Search Continues

  Stretched across a vast expanse of Lunaria, the Saelen Kingdom began to rouse with the rising of the Firestar. The dawn of a new day promised gentle, clearing skies as the birds and small fairy folk started with their songs. For many stirring creatures, it was a calling to start their routines and chores for the day. But for some, it was a calling to much more. For at least one, it was the dawning of a new and likely perilous adventure.

  As warm Firestar light caressed the cliffs and domain of Niburu and the flower people of Alethia, a small, magical milk thistle began to rouse. Rooted softly and alone upon a cliff, the morning’s dew fell easily from the weed as he unfurled and woke from restless sleep. He felt shame for needing such rest, but the milk thistle knew his strength was needed for the travels that lay before him.

  The little weed was known as many things. In the territory of Bunda-Bas, his former home, he was known as an outcast and traitor. In the territory of Alethia, he was a criminal. Both realms of plants knew him as Thorn-Ren, little weed and wanted man. But the weed knew who he was and would no longer relinquish his self, for he was Theophilus Thistle: adventurer, explorer, and defender of the light.

  Thus uprooted, Theophilus stretched deeply, allowing the morning’s light to invigorate him. He searched the cliff and wilderness below with wary eyes, still planning his next move. For countless hours he had scoured the area in search of a beautiful pink lotus he had befriended, one that had already held sway easily over his heart. Theophilus had planned an evening meeting to enjoy her time and company. That beautiful flower known as Calla was now lost due to unfolding circumstances, and Theophilus wore the burden of the blame, vowing to return her to Alethia at all costs.