' thoughts'
"spoken words"
Chapter 1
'I see the Roman solders riding up the hill to come recruit, no not recruit, we have no choice in the matter, more like take.' Thought Tristian. 'One or more boys from every village, that are over the age of 10, to train and eventually become knights to protect whatever post the Romans felt like putting them.'
"Tristian! They're here, get your things ready!"
"Already done Papa!"
'They're closer now, their armor covered bodies shine in the sun, their horses clean limed and muscular very different from our shabby ponies and horses, fur covered huts, and grubby clothing.' He thinks this as he walks up to his gray dapple with a black mane to strap on his supplies and the little bit of food that could be spared form the village store. He looks back at the Romans as his father comes up behind him and places his hand on his shoulder and the other around his mother's waist. 'Their almost here I'd better go but I don't see any other boys with them, I wonder if I'm the first one they've picked up or if they've hurt or killed the others. The Romans have a habit of hurting others and not really caring if they do.'
"Are there anymore boy?"
Tristian looked up at the Roman who had spoken and just shook his head.
'They want more blood! Are not the ones they are taking enough for them? ' Tristian turned back around for what would be the last time he ever looked upon his home and family.
"RRRUUUUUSSSSSSSSSS!" The whole village yelled after Tristian as he smiled sadly and rode away.