Chapter One: Our Lives As Kids
They sat on the floor, listening enthusiastically as their parents told them stories of Heroes of ages past. They hugged each other close as they listened. Their mother, Alexia Veil, was a beautiful, young Heroine. Their father, the famous Ranger, Hero of Oakvale, told them of the Guildmaster, and how he raised him, trained him to be at his full potential. They listened closely, wondering and hoping if they would ever become Heroes like their Mother and Father.
"Mommy," Alex said as she tugged at Alexia's skirt to get her attention. "Do you think that Edmund and I will ever be as great as you and Daddy?" Edmund's eyes lit up. Alexia smiled softly to her children, patting her lap for Edmund to sit in, as Alex sat in her father's lap.
"I think that you two will be the greatest Heroes of your time. I tell you what, on your seventh birthday, I will take the both of you to see the Guildmaster." She hugged Edmund as Ranger hugged Alex. "How does that sound?" They both squealed with delight.
"The Guildmaster will show you everything from how to use melee weapons, how to shoot a bow, and cast magic." Ranger looked at his beautiful wife and kids.
"That would be fantastic! Wouldn't it, Edmund?" Edmund smiled at his sister.
"Now I really can't wait for our birthday! We're going to have so much fun!"
"Yes we are, Edmund!"
Ranger stood up with Alex still in his arms, and walked over to where Edmund and Alexia sat. He sat on the floor with them, and began tickling Alex. She laughed uncontrollably, trying to get Ranger to stop. Edmund giggled at his sister, but was completely oblivious to his mother's intentions. She tickled him, just as Ranger had done to Alex. The twins laughed uncontrollably as their parents continued to show no mercy.
As they gasped for air, their parents slowed it down. They calmed down, and pounced on their parents. The four laughed as they lay on the floor. Alex and Edmund were excited. In a few days, on their birthday, they will learn the ways of the Hero.
"Okay, kids. I think it's time for the two of you to get our hides to bed." Alexia said as they groaned in disapproval.
"I think that your mother is right. Look at the two of you." Ranger said as he lifted them into his arms. The twins laid their heads on either of his shoulders, falling asleep almost instantly.
"They're beautiful," Alexia said as Ranger set them down on the bed.
"And ours." Ranger said as he kissed Alexia's cheek.
He picked her up, and set her down in the bed next to their kids.
"Get some sleep. We have a long few days ahead of us."
"Okay. Goodnight, Ranger."
"Goodnight, Alexia." He said as he kissed her forehead. "I love you."
"I love you, too."