RuneScape Forum Archive | Shorts, Fragments, and Verse

Yam42

Posts: 1,134 Mithril Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile

Commentary: I'm not exactly sure where the idea for this one came from. It bears some resemblance to Dickens' *A Christmas Carol,* but it has its differences as well. I may use the reserved post after this story to do a short narrative on this piece if enough people would like to see it.

---

A Passing

Somewhere across town a rooster crowed its greeting to the morning. Beams of sunlight fell through the windows and flooded the bedroom with a pleasant brightness, the polished wood shining in the wholesome sunny rays.

The man sat up, a smile crossing his young face. He back pulled the curtain that circumscribed his four-poster bed, allowing the sunlight to paint him with a soft pink and orange glow. He paused a moment to relish the birth of a new day before he arose and readied himself.

A gentle spring breeze greeted the youth as he stepped outside. A carriage full of passengers clattered by, the sound of the horses' hooves preceding the vehicle down the cobblestone street. The young man descended the few steps down his stoop and onto street level, turning south towards the university. Today, he would graduate.

As he continued his brisk walk through the winding maze of streets, he became aware of how bright everything seemed. The people, the buildings, all was fresh and new-looking. Even row upon row of dilapidated tenements seemed to straighten their backs and appear more welcoming.

And then there was her.

She was clothed in a flowing white dress complimented by a golden petticoat trimmed with falcon plumes. Her hair was a pleasant shade of brown that shimmered in the sunlight. If everything seemed brighter, then this beautiful creature must have been the sun itself. Her rosy lips grew into a smile as she beckoned the young man over to herself.

For a moment the youth paused, unsure of whom she was calling on the busy street. Their eyes locked as she pointed directly at him. There was no doubt about it: she was calling on him.

27-Apr-2012 03:15:17 - Last edited on 06-Jun-2012 02:04:29 by Yam42

Yam42

Posts: 1,134 Mithril Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile

As another carriage rattled on past, the youth hurriedly crossed the street. Reaching the lady, he smiled and took her hand, gently raising it to his lips.

“To whom do I owe this honor, miss?” he asked, lowering her hand.

“My name isn't important, my dear,” she said, flashing another blinding smile. “I can perceive by your attire that you are making your way towards the university, aren't you?”

“Indeed, miss, I am,” the man responded.

“If you don't mind, sir, I would like to accompany you.”

“It would be my pleasure.”

She turned as he took her arm, her white dress rippling slightly in the breeze. They began to stroll down the street, he young and distinguished, she whiter and fairer than even Tennyson's bright Lady.

“If you are going to be my escort, sir, I would at least inquire to your name,” she said, breaking the silence.

“Miss, my manners fail me. I deeply apologize,” he responded pleasantly. “My name is John Felix.”

“'John Felix,'” she repeated, tasting the two words. “A beautiful name.”

“Thank you, miss,” the young man said with a smile.

For the next few blocks, they chatted amiably about trivial things – the weather, the calls of various birds, the names of streets. The youth didn't mind that their conversation never went deeper. He enjoyed the purity of her company and the odd sensation of comfort she brought with her presence. Finally, they reached the gates of the university.

“Would you care to stay for the graduation ceremony, miss?” he asked.

“I would love to, Mr. Felix,” she said, the words a harmonious euphony as they flowed from her mouth. “Unfortunately, I have an appointment across town. I am truly sorry.”

“Oh,” the young man said, allowing his countenance to fall slightly before he caught himself. “Well, miss, I wish you the best.”

“I can do nothing but the same for you,” she replied with another rosy smile.

They commended each other to God and parted ways, the lady continuing down the street and the youth entering the campus.

27-Apr-2012 03:18:11 - Last edited on 30-Apr-2012 23:53:04 by Yam42

Yam42

Posts: 1,134 Mithril Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile

The graduation ceremony was quite short and uneventful. As the young man walked across the stage to receive his awards – highest honors, of course – a thunderous burst of applause erupted from the audience. It seemed as though the world was at his feet as he took his seat.

After the ceremony had concluded, one of the professors approached the youth with a smile. He was slightly different than the rest, seeming more distinguished but more tired than the others. A short conversation ensued during which the esteemed educator offered his former pupil a position on the college staff.

“There is, however, one stipulation,” the august professor said, trying to keep fatigue from his voice.

“I am honored,” the younger replied. “I will do whatever is needed of me.”

The professor smiled, his gray mustache twitching upwards. “Good. It's quite simple, really. You must give a three-hour lecture this afternoon on any topic of your choice. The faculty will evaluate your performance before we come to a decision.” He paused for a moment. “Oh, come now. It shan't be hard at all,” he quickly added after seeing the youth's anxious expression. “Simply stand there and talk.”

The young man swallowed his nervousness and nodded.

"Wonderful!” the elder exclaimed, all tiredness vanishing from his being. “You are one of the few who actually agrees at the first request.”

“I suppose I will see you shortly, then?”

“Indeed. Take care of yourself, boy." The older man turned and departed.

John Felix looked at the sky, the summer sun pounding down upon the post-ceremony gathering. He wiped the sweat from his brow and strolled inside the nearest building.

27-Apr-2012 03:18:45 - Last edited on 01-May-2012 00:00:57 by Yam42

Yam42

Posts: 1,134 Mithril Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile

Afternoon arrived, and with it the presentation. He stood and talked, at first frantically, then more slowly as he began to relax. It seemed as though a career in education was his for the taking as he spoke for not two hours, nor three, nor four, but five long hours. At his conclusion, the faculty excused themselves for a few moments to deliberate on the former student's prowess.

The man sagged into a chair, overcome by fatigue. His wait was one of both nervousness and patience as he gazed at the autumnal reds and yellows blowing past the window. Finally, the august professor reentered with his companions.

“Mr. Felix, you have done excellently,” he began. “Why, Dr. Queen even joked that he was slightly jealous of your skill.”

A slight ripple of chortles and contained laughter came from the faculty.

“But really, Mr. Felix, your presentation was exemplary. We are all so proud of you.”

“Thank you, sir," the man replied to the professor.

“No, no. It's not 'sir' anymore. From now on, it will be 'colleague' or 'friend.'” The professor paused momentarily as the news dawned on the man, happiness spreading across his face. “Welcome to the faculty, Mr. Felix.”

The other professors applauded loudly.

“Thank you again, sir – er – friend,” the man replied with a smile.

“Now, my friend,” the older professor grinned, “you seem quite tired. Go home and rest.”

The man thanked them again as he arose and departed.

As John Felix stepped outside, a winter snow began to fall. He turned north and hurried homeward, passing crowds of children frolicking in the white city*cape. After walking for a few blocks, he took a shortcut through an alley in his haste. He neared the exit, but stopped short, hindered by two men. Both stood, rising from the piles of snow and filth in which they sat. Nearing them closer, he noticed that they were chained together.

“Stay away from me,” he said, stumbling backwards. “I want nothing to do with escaped convicts.”

27-Apr-2012 03:19:03 - Last edited on 06-Jun-2012 02:19:21 by Yam42

Yam42

Posts: 1,134 Mithril Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile

“You've nothing to worry about, Mr. Felix,” one responded. He was clothed in what once must have been a wonderful suit, now turned to rags. His stomach was bulging, but the rest of him was emaciated to the point of appearing absolutely skeletal. “We are not convicts.”

The man recoiled slightly. “Sir, shall I get you some medical attention?” he asked, more out of duty than compassion. “My friend is a doctor. He lives not far from here.”

“No, thank you,” the wraith-like man hissed. "I will be dealt with soon enough.”

As the man opened his mouth to speak, he became perplexed by the other of the shackled two. This man was well-dressed and very young. His countenance was full of hope and joy despite his peculiar situation.

John Felix leaned in closer to the young one, stroking his gray beard. “Excuse me, sir, but have I met you before? You seem very familiar to me.”

“I assure you that you two have never met, Mr. Felix,” the thin one responded.

Felix grunted, brushing snowflakes from his sleeve. “Perhaps not,” he said, his wrinkled features still twisted into a puzzled look by the strangeness of the situation. “He does remind me of someone so strongly. Perhaps my brother?”

“He bears a striking resemblance to *you*, Mr. Felix,” the wraith said with a faint growl.

“Ah, well. Strange how things are, isn't it?” Felix said with a nervous laugh. He was becoming uncomfortable. For some reason, seeing the young man filled him with a sense of peace, yet the other gave him sadness. “I believe, gentle sirs, that I must be going.”

“Please, do not let us hinder you,” the thin one spoke for the two again, the other remaining ominously silent.

27-Apr-2012 03:19:27 - Last edited on 06-Jun-2012 17:32:30 by Yam42

Yam42

Posts: 1,134 Mithril Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile

John Felix handed them a few shillings and blessed them before hurrying from the alley. He rushed, slightly disturbed and perplexed by his encounter. He turned corner after corner, wondering why the younger man wouldn't speak. Relieved, he arrived at his doorstep. His wrinkled and gnarled hands fumbled with the keys as he inserted them into the cold lock. Suddenly, he froze.

*How did that strange man know my name?*

A burst of panic filled him as he dashed inside and bolted the door. Calming himself, he realized he was feeling quite ill. The man entered the kitchen but decided that he was too tired to eat. He turned and ascended the stairs to his bedroom. Quickly, he prepared himself for bed, knelt for a prayer, and climbed in, blowing out the candle by his bedside.

A tiny glow of light began in the back corner of the room, radiating to fill a larger space.

John Felix sat bolt upright in bed. “Who is there?” he demanded, drawing back the curtain.

He was greeted by a smiling man handsomely dressed in a white topcoat, vest, and pants. The visitor was holding a candle, which the man realized would explain the light.

But how did he enter if the door and window were still bolted?

“You've got nothing to worry about, Mr. Felix,” the visitor reassured. “A Friend heard you were feeling quite tired and ill, so He sent me over to check on you.”

“Oh,” John Felix said with a yawn, not even caring about the door and the window anymore as fatigue began to overtake him. “That was very kind of both of you. I assure you I am fine.” He laid back down.

“Have no worry, then,” the visitor said with a faint smile. “I know where the exit is located. Peace to you, John Felix.”

John Felix barely heard him as he sank into the sleep that all people inevitably must.

27-Apr-2012 03:19:41 - Last edited on 06-Jun-2012 02:23:00 by Yam42

Yam42

Posts: 1,134 Mithril Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile

Commentary: This is actually the first story I wrote when I resumed writing. I feel that it accurately reflects my original intentions of writing. There are obvious overtones to the story; however, I would like the audience to understand that this is not meant to offend anyone.

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The Clock, the Board, and the Souls

The clock sitting next to the board ticked away. The one on the couch with his back to the door scratched the side of his face and stared at the massive chessboard on the table between them. The other sat on his couch and stared at the door, his eyes blazing with an impatient fury and hunger for victory.

“Come on, Joe!” the younger man facing the door snarled. “It feels like you've been thinking for centuries! Make a move and get on with it!”

The much older man with his back to the door looked up at his opponent and chuckled. “I'm glad this isn't blitz chess, e*, Luc?"

The younger man simply growled as he aggressively straightened his black shirt.

The older man smiled and sighed. “I suppose the time *has* come for me to make a move.” He glanced over the squares and pieces that lay before him.

“Please just hurry up and lose,” the younger remarked. “I've already taken the vast majority of your advocates.” He gestured to the white knight and two bishops that lay off to the side of the board. “Even most of your people are with me now,” he said, indicating how his two black rooks outnumbered his opponent's singular white one. “You have no chance of winning.”

The elder stroked his white beard, slightly pensive. “I believe the time has come to send my prince into play.” He produced a plain white piece and placed it on a square. “He moves just like a queen would,” he said as he slid it forward one square and tapped his side of the clock, starting the younger man's timer.

The younger man glanced at the board, thinking how to counter his opponent's move. He heard the door open and swing shut again, but he did not look up at any point.

27-Apr-2012 03:19:51 - Last edited on 25-Jun-2012 02:50:18 by Yam42

Yam42

Posts: 1,134 Mithril Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile

And so the two men reengaged their match of wits, the younger manipulating every one of his pieces to counter the elder's prince. The older man's pieces moved on their own, almost as though they were perfectly tuned to his will. The white prince glided across the board this way and that, taking pawn after pawn. Finally, the prince captured one of the black rooks. The older man gave another faint smile as a pawn advanced to the back rank and transformed into a white rook.

“I believe more of the people are on my side now," the elder remarked.

The younger of the two growled without looking at his opponent.

The match continued in the same fashion for a short while longer until the white prince sacrificed himself to save both of the white rooks.

“You can't possibly win now, Joe!” the younger man shouted triumphantly. “I have your prince, your advocates, and control of the board!”

A short knock came from the door. The elder smiled again.

“Who's that?” the younger man spat as he glared at the door, offended that someone would interrupt his celebration.

“Don't you know, Luc?” the older man replied. “It's my prince and some friends.” He spun around to face the door. “Come in.”

The door gently opened as the prince entered the room. He was followed by a shining company of men and women, all clad in white. The younger man stared icy daggers at each of them.

“Welcome home, son,” the elder man remarked to the prince, gesturing for him to come sit next to him on the couch. “And welcome home to the rest of you, my cherished advocates.”

The prince walked over to the couch and joined his father. They took a moment to share a short embrace. All the while, the younger man's eyes flared with fury; however, his fury was quickly replaced by shock as he looked at the table, only to notice that the white knight and bishops that sat to the side of the board had disappeared.

“H-how is this possible?” he stammered.

27-Apr-2012 03:19:59 - Last edited on 06-Jun-2012 02:57:48 by Yam42

Yam42

Posts: 1,134 Mithril Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile

“Simple,” the older man began with a flash of his usual smile, “you captured my prince, but I gave him the ability to free the captives while you had him. He was then to return to me.” He glanced at his son. “Isn't that right, Jesse?"

The son simply smiled and gave a curt nod of agreement.

The younger man gave a faint wicked grin. “It's no matter, Joe. Now that he's out of the picture, I will easily defeat you.” He glided one of his bishops across the board and tapped his side of the clock.

“Actually, Luc,” the older man remarked, “I believe it is about time for the prince to reenter the field.” He nodded to his son, who quickly rose from the couch and exited the room. As soon as the door closed, the older man reached into the pocket of his white shirt and produced the same piece as before.

Another white pawn moved onto the back rank. The elder reached down and replaced it with the prince's piece. He smiled again and tapped his side of the clock.

Another short series of moves ensued. The younger man was quivering with fury, while a smile never left the older man's face. Finally, another knock sounded at the door. This time, the older man did not even turn around.

“Welcome back, son,” he simply said.

The door opened and the prince returned to his spot at his father's side.

“*How* is this possible?” the younger man frantically asked. “He wasn't removed from the board, yet his presence here means that his piece should be taken away.”

“Well, Luc, the presence of the prince on the board represents my son's legacy and spirit that stays with all people,” the older man responded. “Obviously, it is a very powerful legacy. That is why the piece remains: it can still influence the outcome.”

“I still intend to win,” the younger man remarked, glancing back down at the board.

“You won't,” the elder coldly replied. “I knew you were going to lose before we even began. This isn't – and never was – a game to me, Luc.”

27-Apr-2012 03:20:07 - Last edited on 06-Jun-2012 02:59:55 by Yam42

Yam42

Posts: 1,134 Mithril Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile

The younger man rolled his eyes and pushed another piece forward, tapping his side of the clock.

“I'm serious,” the elder continued, staring at the board. Slowly, he looked up at his opponent and smiled. Their eyes locked. “Mate in two,” he said.

The prince glided across the board to threaten the black king. The younger man's eyes widened as he realized the full gravity of his situation.

The older man didn't even so much as glance down at the table. "Check,” he said with a smile as he tapped his side of the clock.

The younger man's eyes darted across the board as he looked for a way to save himself, even to stall the inevitable. His brow was furrowed in thought. Now it was only a matter of time before he lost.

The clock sitting next to the board ticked away.

27-Apr-2012 03:20:17 - Last edited on 06-Jun-2012 03:00:32 by Yam42

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