Young Love
Disclaimer:
The following disclaimers apply to this and all future chapters.
I do not own nor make a profit from anything dealing with the cartoon show Dungeon And Dragons. Whether it be merchandise, toys, characters, books, settings, episodes, ect. (in all forms) That includes but not limited to, anything mentioned in the show and/or comic book. It belongs to Kevin Paul Coates, Dennis Marks, Takashi, Marvel Productions, DD Entertainment, Toei Animation, BVS Entertainment, Hasbro Studios, CBS and anyone else I missed.
I do not own nor make a profit from anything dealing with Mickey Mouse. Whether it be merchandise, toys, animations, ect. (in all forms). He belongs to Walt Disney, and anyone else I missed.
Warnings: Yaoi, m/m, maybe m/m/m, out-of-character moments, language, strong language, suggestive dialogue, violence, cursing, blood, spoilers (even tho this show is like 34 years give or take)
Rated: M- Mature.
Words: 11, 771 (just this chapter without the notes/disclaimer/warnings ect.)
A/N: Hey! This is my second time writing in this fandom. My first was sorta a prequel to this but you don't need to read it to understand this story. Anyway, I've been a fan of this show since I was a child. I saw the reruns back in the early nineties (showing my age haha *sweat drops* ) But anyway, I've been working on this story (and a couple other ones that I need to finish before posting) for a long time. It was going to be a one shot...but then the story began to run into the 25,000 words. I realized it would be hard for someone to read that many words at once, without losing their spot anyway haha.
What helped to make this story is that I began to run my own D&D campaign around the time I started writing this story. If you watch the show with the knowledge of any edition of D&D you'll see that the 'bullshit' parts of the show are just natural ones being rolled on the dice and the awesome are natural twenties. So that's how I wrote this story. So if you already know how to play D&D, you'll see what I mean *wink*
Also, I usually reply to reviews in the A/N but I've gotten a lot of complaints from readers for doing that. So if you review I'll reply via PM. It might not be right away, which I'll attempt to do but with life it might be a bit or right away. So I hope yall enjoy my story!
The first part of this story is really the opening of the show. The only reason I did that was for those who might not have seen this amazing cartoon but still wanted to read the story. But if you don't want to read it (as you know how the opening goes) then you can skip it haha. I do have a split to separate it from the rest of the story. I even have a ~Scene Change~ as an added measure haha.
Enjoy!
The sounds of children's laughter and carnival music filled the air. Six kids stood at the gate's entrance, surrounded by other children. They could smell hot dogs, cheese burgers, and cotton candy as they passed each cart as they wandered further into the traveling carnival.
"Hey look!" said the youngest from the group.
He was eight years old, or at least looked it. He had shaggy shoulder length blond hair and brilliant blue eyes. Some freckles crossed his nose and slightly over his cheeks. His smile was wide as he pointed towards one particular ride.
It was an indoor rollercoaster. The entrance to the ride was a dragon, it's mouth open and the track of the rollercoaster disappeared into the open mouth. It's nostrils snorted out smoke and it's eyes glowed an eerie orange. Above the head of the dragon was the name of the ride.
"A Dungeon and Dragons ride!" the young boy shouted, reading the name a loud.
The group looked at the line which didn't seem too long. They entered the line and waited until it was their turn to enter the red cart, which could fit all six kids.
The young boy was the first one to jump into the cart, sliding over to the farthest side of the front row of the cart. A teenage girl slid into the cart, sitting next to the boy. She had shoulder length orange hair. Her freckles were only a bit more noticeable across her nose, than the young boy she sat next to. Her green eyes sparkled in excitement as she sat in her seat.
The next one of the six to sit in was a pretty African American girl. She slid into the second row, moving all the way down. She had long curly black hair, being held back from her face by a red headband. Her chocolate brown eyes looked around just as excitedly as the blue eyed young boy.
A tall young man slid in next to her. He had short black hair, almost a bowl cut but a little bit more spiky. His face was a bit oval but fit well with his hair cut. His dark brown eyes looked amused but not as excited as the rest of the group already sitting on the ride.
The next one to finish out the backseat of the cart was another young man. He looked a little younger than the other guy but older than the boy in the front row. His light brown hair almost touched his shoulders but was flat. His hazel eyes were hidden behind slim glasses. The gap between his front teeth were fully visible from the open smile he had on his lips.
The last of the six to enter the ride was a young man with flowing blond hair, which rested on his shoulders. He was grinning as he stepped into the last remaining seat in the front row. His blue eyes looked back at another group of kids who were also in line.
All six kids jumped at the sudden jerk of the ride. However, their smiles returned to their faces as they headed into the ride.
It was a typical looking 'haunted house' vibe but with dragons and monsters.
"Wow! Neat!" the youngest boy said as they passed a mechanical dragon who breathed fire.
"Give me a break." sighed the young man sitting in the back seat.
His chocolate brown eyes rolling at the obviously cheap effects.
However, as they passed through a set of red doors, the monsters and demons that surrounded them began to blur together. Their cart began to shake as the rail began to wiggle.
"I don't like this!" the African American girl said looking around in worry.
Soon the rail disappeared below them and the cart they were in began to fall apart.
"What's happening?" asked the blond teen from the front seat.
The ride completely disappeared and a glowing light appeared in front of them. They could feel themselves being pulled towards the light. They screamed as they disappeared into the vanishing light. They all fell until they landed in an unfamiliar world.
"Where are we?" Asked the boy with the glasses.
Not too long, a baby unicorn rushed up to the group, jumping into the youngest boy's arms. The young boy looked like a viking with his horned hat and fur skin shorts.
A roar grabbed the group's attention and there, stomping towards them, was a five headed dragon.
"Look out!" shouted the taller blond before he and everyone else turned and ran.
The young boy ran as he held tightly to the baby unicorn.
The two blond boys stopped and turned, as the rest of the group continued to run. Their blue eyes widened as one of the heads looked ready to fire some kind of blast at them.
From behind one of the rocks stepped out a short old man, dressed in a long red robe. He had pointy ears and was bald on the top of his head, but had long white hair around the sides and back of his head.
"Fear not." the old man said before pointing his long boney finger at the tall blond.
"Ranger." the old man finished as a golden glow went towards the young teen.
The boy now dubbed as a Ranger watched with wide blue eyes as a bow appeared in his hands. He looked up at the five headed dragon and pulled back on an invisible string. A golden arrow appeared as he let go of it, it soared towards the dragon.
The arrow hit its mark, however, it evaporated once it touched the dragon's chest.
The short man had a grin on his face as he pointed his finger at the smaller boy.
"Barbarian." he called the boy as a club appeared in his hand, while he still held the baby unicorn.
"Magician." the old man said as a green hat appeared on the boy with the glasses.
"Thief." he said to the ginger, getting a purple cloak.
The minute the two got their items, a shot of electricity headed right at them, from one of the heads of the dragon. The Magician ran, as the Thief put her hood on. The minute it covered her head, she went invisible.
The electric bolt hit the ground where the two teens had been standing only seconds ago.
"Cavalier."
The other young teen was running as a shiny shield appeared in his left hand. He looked at it, a bit confused but continued to run.
"And Acrobat."
The African American girl was also running, when a baton appeared in her hand. She seemed to instantly know what to do with it, as she made it grow long enough to use it to push her away, just in time from a frozen spray from one of the five heads of the dragon.
The dragon appeared to become angry and all of her heads' fired towards the group of kids that were trapped between the dragon and a tall cliff. The Magician reached into his green hat and pulled out three ropes. The ropes headed up the cliff and as if by magic, wrapped around something. The kids climbed the ropes, avoiding the five attacks that came at them.
The Cavalier and the Magician were the first to reached the top of the cliff. However, there waiting for them was a man on a black stallion. The man had white skin as if it was painted on. He had a black cape that formed into wings. His fangs were showing as he shot a blast of energy towards the teens, who were all clinging to the end of the cliff; staring at the man with wide eyes.
However, the Cavalier held up his shield, as the rest of the group ducked back and behind him. The energy reflected off the golden shield and struck the five headed dragon, who appeared from behind the six teens.
The black stallion jumped away from the fire that came from the main dragon's head. The man and his stallion flew into the air, using the man's wings that were on his back. He turned around on his saddle and shot an energy blast towards the dragon who flew after the man.
The six kids had climbed onto the cliff and watched the dragon chase the man until they both disappeared.
"Who was that?" asked the Acrobat, not really expecting an answer.
"That was Venger." said the old man.
The kids noticed the man as he stood behind them. The unicorn was set down by the Barbarian. The baby unicorn went over to the old man.
"The force of evil." the old man continued, before patting the head of the baby unicorn.
"I am Dungeon Master, your guide in the realm of Dungeons and Dragons." the old man said before disappearing in front of the six kid's eyes.
~Scene Change~
"Hurry!" Hank shouted as he pulled back the invisible string, forming a golden arrow.
They were so close. The sight of the amusement park was in their sights. They had found a way around the bottomless pit that blocked their path. However, Venger appeared, as he always did, to take the powerful weapons and to foil their attempts at going home.
Eric had thought it was too easy and had shared his thoughts to the rest of the group once they saw the portal. Unfortunately they ignored him, as usual. For once he wished he was wrong. But here they were, standing in front of the portal. All they had to do was walk through the already flickering way home.
"Hank!" Sheila screamed as she watched the blond boy continue to fire golden arrow after arrow at the evil sorcerer.
He dodged every arrow while riding his flying black stallion.
"Hurry up Hank!" Bobby shouted as he set Uni down.
The baby unicorn chimed in with the young boy.
Presto moved his hand over his hat, trying to cast a spell. But it made small iron balls.
"For crying out loud!" Eric growled as he rushed forward.
He jumped in front of an energy blast, shield in front of him and their 'fearless' leader.
"What? Eric?" Hank said with wide eyes.
Eric growled and began to walk backwards while standing in front of the blond. This caused the young man to also back up.
"Not this time Hank! We are not going to blow our chance again! Now run!" Eric hissed, as he turned to give his friend a stern look.
Hank hesitated but nodded. He turned and ran as Eric blocked each energy attack that headed towards the two boys. The rest of the group let out sighs of relief before each headed into the portal. Bobby gave his unicorn a kiss on her nose before being led into the portal by his sister.
Hank was about to jump in with the rest of the group but stopped. He turned around and saw Eric was further back than he thought.
"Eric!"
"Go!" Eric growled out before stumbling backwards, falling onto the ground.
Venger had landed and was walking towards the boy. Eric's eyes were wide as he watched in fear. Hank raised his bow about to fire an arrow. He took a step forward and stepped on the metal ball that had came from Presto's hat. It exploded from under his feet. He yelped in surprise as he stumbled backwards.
Eric turned and watched with wide eyes as Hank returned the look. Hank's arms windmill in the air. He was so close to the portal.
"Hank!" Eric screamed just as an energy blast headed towards his glowing shield.
"Eric!" Hank shouted before falling backwards into the fading portal.
Eric watched with wide eyes as the portal closed once Hank fell into it. He had no time to think as the energy blast brought his attention back at the danger that was in front of him.
"Dungeon Master! Somebody! Anybody! Help!" Eric screamed, holding on for dear life to his shield.
Eric could hear a sadistic laugh in front of him. Eric peeked his head out from behind his shield, wishing he hadn't. Venger stood in front of him, a sadistic grin on his lips. His fangs peeking out from behind his lips.
"You are alone boy. Not even Dungeon Master can save you now." Venger said, reaching forward.
He grabbed onto the shield.
Eric panicked and gripped his shield even tighter. He jumped onto his feet and dug them into the ground. He was alone. He was scared. He was in deep shit. Even so, nothing would make him let go of that shield.
"Let go." Venger growled in frustration.
The Cavalier was much stronger than the evil sorcerer thought.
"Nu-uh." Eric said as he shook his head.
"Let go or I'll make you." Venger growled.
Eric shivered at the threat. He knew the evil sorcerer would truly do it. However, those words only made him hold the shield tighter.
Venger let out a growl.
"Suit yourself." he growled, letting go.
Eric yelped in surprise. He stumbled backwards but was able to stand on his feet.
Venger's hands filled with red energy. Eric screamed as he turned around. Venger began to fire at the Cavalier. Eric was able to avoid and block the energy blasts as he ran. He heard a familiar noise and saw Uni. She was standing where the portal had been.
"Damn it Uni." Eric cursed as he rushed towards the crying baby unicorn.
He dodged another blast before hooking the shield to his back. He scooped up the unicorn and began to run.
Uni looked up at Eric with wide, tear filled eyes.
"I gotcha ya, little cry baby." Eric said softly before heading towards the bottomless pit.
Venger growled and got back onto his stallion.
Eric reached the edge before turning around. He saw Venger begin to rise into the air. He whimpered as he held the baby unicorn close to his chest, turning back around to look at the pit. They had only crossed it with Hank's arrows becoming a rope big enough to walk on. Apparently it had vanished once Hank fell into the portal.
"I hope everyone made it..." Eric whispered, closing his eyes and hugging the unicorn closer.
Uni whimpered and whined, worried for the Cavalier, as well as her own safety.
"ERIC!"
Eric's eyes snapped open and found an arrow soaring towards him. He yelped before jumping backwards. The arrow landed in front of him, a rope tied around it. He blinked down at the arrow before following the rope to the other side. There stood a young man with shaggy brown hair. He wore a white long sleeved hoodie with a brown vest over it. A dark brown belt wrapped around his waist and he had dark brown boots with some fur on the top. The boy looked familiar to Eric, but he wasn't sure why or from where.
"Hurry!" the boy shouted, waving his arms.
Eric nodded before tightening his hold on the unicorn and running across the rope. He yelped as energy balls came at him from above. He steadied himself as the rope swayed a bit.
"Move your butt!" shouted the boy.
"Hey! You try to cross a wobbly rope bridge while carrying a baby unicorn and dodging fire blasts!" Eric said before stumbling, almost falling off.
"Eric!" shouted the boy. "Get down and hold on!"
Eric didn't even hesitate and did what he was told. Just as he held onto the rope, it snapped from behind him. He and Uni screamed as they fell with the rope. The rope stopped with a jerk motion before his back hit the wall of the pit. Luckily, his shield took the brunt of the hit but he still yelped at some pain. His one hand held tightly to the rope while his other didn't loosen on the unicorn who began to struggle.
"Hey! Uni calm down!" Eric growled as he tried to not fall or drop her.
"FIRE!"
Eric looked up and saw a bunch of spears and arrows flying over the cliff towards the flying Venger. Venger growled but retreated as he couldn't dodge nor deflect all of those objects at once.
A cheer rang out from above making Eric extremely confused.
"We're gonna pull you up!" came that voice.
"We?" Eric shouted back.
Eric yelped as he felt the rope began to move. He held tightly onto the rope as he and Uni were pulled up safely out of the cavern. Once on the ground, Eric let the unicorn down. She backed up a bit before turning with concern pink eyes to look at her savior. Eric was on his hands and knees breathing heavily.
"You look like shit."
Eric growled. He had enough of the bullshit this guy was spitting out. He didn't care who it was, they were going to get a punch to the face!
"Listen you, I'm getting sick and tired of..." Eric began before he stared at his asshole of a savoir.
"Loren?" he said in awe, sitting on his knees.
Loren grinned.
"It seems you can't help but find trouble, eh?" Loren said before offering his hand.
Eric sat there just staring up at the boy, before a wide grin crossed his lips. He took the offered hand and stood up. Once on his feet, the Cavalier hugged the boy who he hadn't seen for at least two years. Loren's face turned a faint pink while his eyes widened.
"Loren!" Eric shouted as he continued to hug the boy.
"Ahhh...Eric?"
Eric blinked before pulling away, realizing what he had done. He blushed slightly and laughed nervously.
Loren couldn't help but laugh too, a fond smile crossing his lips.
"I'm happy to see you too." Loren said before looking around, "Where is everyone else?"
Eric's smile fell from his face. He felt like crying. He had mixed feelings. He was happy his friends had finally made it home. But he was jealous that they all got to go home. He felt abandoned. He felt betrayed. He felt pathetic for feeling that way.
Loren could tell something happened by the look on Eric's face. Uni went up to the boy and whined, also looking sad.
"What happened?" Loren asked, his voice going low.
"They...well they made it." Eric said, a soft glossiness coating his eyes.
Loren blinked in confusion.
"What do you mean?"
"They made it home." Eric groaned before covering his face with his hand.
It took Loren a moment before he understood what his friend was talking about.
When Loren had met the Cavalier and the rest of the group, Eric had told him they were from another world. Eric had told him all of their adventures of trying to find a portal home. Eric also shared how much he missed his world. How much he missed a food called pizza and french fries. How he wanted to play something called a video game and watch a television.
His brown eyes widened.
"So...you're alone?"
Eric sighed before removing his hand from his face. He had a look that had Loren's heart fill with pain. It was so full of pain and sadness. Eric looked back towards where the portal had been only minutes before. He let out another sigh before turning back around with a nod.
Uni whined before nuzzling against Eric's leg. The Cavalier looked down and couldn't help but smile.
"Well, I got Uni but that's not saying much." Eric said with a smile.
Uni huffed but seemed to understand it wasn't meant to be mean. It was just an automatic reaction to stress. He would be critical or borderline mean. But he never meant what he said. Hank was the only one to understand and not take him seriously.
The thought of Hank made Eric's heartache. He knew the blond would take this hard. He always blamed himself whenever something bad happened to any of them. He had to be feeling like he should have been left behind. He let out a sigh and ran his hand through his black hair.
"Well..." Loren started, catching the Cavalier's attention, "I wouldn't be able to live with myself if I left you here, alone. I mean, you can barely catch food let alone live on your own." Loren said with a smile.
Eric blinked at the boy.
"What?"
"You heard me. It's been kinda boring anyway." Loren said before turning around.
It was here Eric realized there were other people there. It was the same group that adopted Loren as their own.
"Is that okay?" Loren asked a woman.
She smiled warmly before turning to a man. The man looked at the Cavalier who felt a bit uncomfortable.
"Only until he finds a way home at least?" Loren added, turning completely to his adopted father.
The man seemed to think about it before nodding. Loren's face brightened before turning back to a shocked Eric.
"Looks like I'm stuck with you." he said with a snicker.
Eric stood there for a moment in shock before realization hit him. He smiled.
"You? Stuck with me? More like I'm stuck with you."
Loren and Eric looked at each other for a moment before the two laughed. Uni looked at the two boys and made a small whine. Eric stopped laughing and looked down at the baby unicorn. He couldn't just leave her behind.
"What about Uni?" Eric asked.
"I mean, not like I care or anything. But if Bobby ever found out I let anything happened to her, he'd club me to death." Eric quickly added with a sideways smile.
Loren looked back at his adopted parents who nodded again. The two boys grinned. Uni made a noise that sounded like joy before jumping at Loren. The boy laughed as he held the baby unicorn. She licked his cheek.
Eric snickered.
"If Bobby was here, he'd be so jealous."
Eric's grin faded before letting out a sigh.
Loren frowned before putting the unicorn down. He put his hand on the Cavalier's shoulder. Eric looked down at the slightly shorter boy. The look in Loren's blue eyes gave the Cavalier goosebumps.
"You'll see them all again. I'm sure of it."
The two looked at each other a bit too long. Eric was the first to look away, clearing his throat as he did.
"Yeah, you're right."
The two were silent for a moment.
"Let's get going!" said Loren's adopted father.
Loren removed his hand from Eric's shoulder. Eric felt oddly cold after the hand moved. He shook his head before giving Loren a smile.
"Thanks."
"Don't worry about it." Loren said with a smile.
The two began to stare a little long into each other eyes again.
Eric cleared his throat.
"Well, aren't you going to show me where I'll be living?" Eric asked, a small smile crossing his lips.
Loren snorted but had a small snicker on his lips.
"You seem to be making yourself at home pretty quick."
"Hey, it's an important question. Especially if I'm going to be living with you." Eric said with a huff.
Loren laughed as Eric pouted.
"Alright, but if your snoring is as bad as it was last time, then you might have to sleep outside the wagon." Loren said.
"Me? Snore? Ha! If I remember correctly, it was you who was as loud as a dragon with a cold." Eric said.
Both boys began to laugh as they headed to rejoin the rest of the caravan. Uni following close behind the two boys.
~Scene Change~
"No! Eric!" Hank shouted.
He jumped off the ground and ran to where the portal had been. It was gone. No trace of the portal even existing. No trace of Eric. No evidence of the Cavalier even making it.
"Hank?"
The blond turned around and found the rest of the group looking at him. They were in shock and fear slowly crossing their faces.
"Where's Eric?" Presto asked, his eyes almost as wide as the glasses his wore.
"Did he make it?" Bobby asked, looking a bit confused.
Hank looked at his friends a bit before looking away. His hands clenched at his side.
"No..." Sheila gasped, covering her mouth.
Hank closed his eyes and clenched his teeth.
"Hank don't tell me that..." Diana started.
"Why couldn't it have been me?" Hank growled.
"It's not your fault Hank." Sheila said, walking to him.
The minute her hand touched his shoulder, he shrugged it off. Her eyes widened.
"Of course it's my fault! I should have checked to see if he was following me. I should have made him run ahead of me! I mean, it's my job! I was the leader. It's my job to make sure you're all safe. Sure, I didn't want that responsibility but it was mine. I failed and Eric got left behind because of my failure. It should have been me that got left behind, not Eric."
The fear was still fresh in the Ranger's mind. He had seen the Cavalier scared before. Not just in the realm of Dungeons and Dragons. He had seen him scared in the real world. Hank had known Eric since kindergarten. The two had been in the same classes all the way up till now. Eric had been a very sad child. Hank knew how hard his life was at home. It didn't help that he would get picked on at school. Although it was odd since he was rich. One would think everyone would bend over backwards to be friends with him. However, there was something about Eric that caused him to be picked on and bullied.
Eric could be a bit of a snob. And sure, he was very sarcastic and could be mean spirited. But he had a side of him that wasn't as shallow. He was caring. He loved his little brother and his black cat Trouble. He was generous when it came to his money. Well, it was his father's money but it didn't matter. When push came to shove, he could be depended on. While they were stuck in the realm of Dungeons and Dragons, his true self came out little by little.
"Don't say that!" Sheila said with pained eyes.
"It's true! I mean, Eric could have made it through if I paid more attention! If I didn't step on those metal balls, I wouldn't have been blasted into the portal!" Hank groaned as he covered his face.
"So that's what they were!" Presto said as his eyes widened, "It was my fault! If only I knew how to control this hat!" Presto growled, clenching at the hat still in his hands.
Presto had known the Cavalier the shortest. He had only moved to this town two years ago. Eric was the first to comment on his magic tricks. Sure, it sounded more like a backhanded compliment but it was better than being completely ignored. Eric was the first to talk to him. He even introduced him to Hank and the others. Presto would have been sitting at home right now working on a card trick if it wasn't for Eric. Sure, that would mean he was stuck in the Dungeon and Dragons realm because of the Cavalier. However, the Magician rather that then be alone and friendless. He owed a lot to Eric and felt closest to the rich kid. Well next to Hank anyway.
"No it's not." Sheila said turning to Presto.
"Yes it is! I made them with this stupid hat!" Presto growled, crumpling the hat more in his hands.
"It's not your fault Presto. At this point, I blame that world." Hank sighed.
Hank didn't know how much time Eric had before Venger would get him. He hoped Eric had gotten away from the evil sorcerer. Venger seemed to always go after the Cavalier. Although, Eric would end up doing things that would piss off the evil sorcerer. Most of the time it was by accident but he would still draw the attention of Venger.
Hank clenched his hands into fists at his side. He had to do something. He had made a promise a very long time ago that he wouldn't let anything bad happen to Eric. That he would always protect him from harm. He had done a great job both in the real world and Dungeon and Dragons realm. That is until today. Although there was that one time not too long ago...
"We need to go back. We have to get Eric back." Hank said with determined eyes.
"What?!" the group shouted.
"How are we going to do that?" Presto asked with wide eyes.
"I'm not sure..." Hank said with a sigh.
"Hmph, if you ask me we should leave him. I mean, it's not like he would have came back for us." Bobby said, folding his arms over his chest; still holding onto his club somehow.
"Bobby!" Sheila scolded.
"What? You know he wouldn't!"
"He went after you." Presto said a bit upset.
"Presto!" Sheila hissed.
"I don't care if Eric made us promise!" Presto said before turning towards a confused Bobby.
"Remember when you were taken to that clock tower?"
Bobby grimaced at the memory before nodding.
"Well, Eric said forget the dummy who said to forget going to that city. He was the first to demand we open that portal and save you. He even protected us from being blasted by that big demon while we all got onto the pendulum. If he missed Ramud's hand, well, he would have been ripped apart from those demons or worse!" Presto said, growing even more angry as he told the story.
Bobby's eyes widened in shock before they turned ashamed. He had always thought of the rich snob as a jerk. He always treated the young Barbarian like a kid. Sure, he was a kid but that wasn't the point! He was just an annoying guy that was friends with both his sister and Hank. He didn't understand why they even hung out with the jerk.
It seemed the Cavalier wasn't as much of a jerk as the young Barbarian originally thought.
"I didn't know that."
"That's because he made us swore not to tell you." Sheila said, turning glaring eyes towards Presto who looked just as pissed.
"Enough!" Hank shouted, causing everyone to look at him.
"It doesn't matter what happened. We need to go and get Eric."
"But how? The portal is closed!" Presto said with sadness in his voice.
"Well, we got there through the Dungeon and Dragons ride, twice. I'm sure we can go through that way." Diana said with a hopeful smile.
Everyone looked at each other, determination on their faces.
"Let's go get Eric back!" Bobby said, lifting his club into the air.
He was the first to head towards the ride, followed by Presto and then Sheila.
Diana hung back with Hank. She knew that Eric and Hank were very close. She had known the two since second grade. She also knew the two were closer than they even realized. She knew they had feelings for each other. They just didn't realize it. Hank had always been overprotective of the Cavalier. Hank had been Eric's shield for the longest time, which was funny as Eric became Hank's, not to mention the rest of the group's shield.
Diana hoped the two would figure out their feelings before it was too late. It would hurt too many people the longer it took for them to realize it. It was obvious to everyone, except Hank, that Sheila was completely smitten with the blond hair blue eyed Ranger. Although, Hank was oblivious to his own feelings for Eric. The longer it took them, the harder it would be on Sheila. Diana didn't think the Thief would be able to handle the truth if they waited any longer.
"Don't worry Hank. We'll get him." Diana said, placing her hand on his shoulder in a comforting manner.
"I hope we're not too late." He said giving her a worried look.
Diana looked at him confused.
"Venger was pretty close to him when I fell backwards. Eric was so scared. I've never seen him so scared before."
"More than normal?" Diana said with a small smile, trying to lighten the mood.
Hank couldn't help but smile back.
"Yeah. But if Venger hurts him or worse..." Hank said, tightening his grip on the bow hilt.
"Don't worry. I'm sure Eric is fine." Diana said as she patted his back.
Hank sighed with a nod.
"I hope so." he said before the two headed towards the ride.
'Eric, hold on I'm coming...' Hank thought.
~Scene Change~
At first Eric had enjoyed the peace and quiet. It was nice not having to worry about when the next meal would be. Not running into dangerous creatures. Actually having time to have sleep without worrying about being attacked. It was pure bliss. What also helped was Loren. The two had acted like actual teenagers! Loren was just as mischievous as the Cavalier and they would play pranks on the other children of the caravan.
He had been traveling with them for almost eleven months. He wasn't sure if it was him being pessimistic or just being a realist, as he would call it. Maybe he wasn't comfortable with being so comfortable. But he began to feel uneasy with how 'safe and calm' it had been.
Eric was on high alert.
"Eric?"
Eric jumped and turned. He let out a sigh of relief.
"Oh, hey squirt."
It was nighttime and Eric was sitting a little away from the wagons. Eric was leaning against a big rock, Uni curled up next to the same rock. There was a decent size campfire in front of the two. It gave a soft orange glow on both boys and the baby unicorn. Loren couldn't help but stare at the Cavalier. His chocolate brown eyes looked a bit lighter in the soft glow of the orange flames. His raven colored hair looked more brown. His face looked more mature from the soft glow. The Cavalier was handsome.
Loren slightly blushed.
Eric raised an eyebrow at the boy. He thought he saw a tint of pink on the boy's cheeks. He shook his head. It had to be from the glow of the fire or so the Cavalier told himself.
"Shouldn't you be in bed?"
Loren snapped out of his stare before snorting.
"I'd ask you the same question." he said before walking over to his friend.
"Besides, we're the same age stupid." Loren added before sitting down in front of a smaller rock that was next to the Cavalier.
Loren looked up at the slightly taller teen. Eric couldn't help but blush. The shorter boy's light blue eyes seemed to reflect the glow from the fire. His already brown hair looked even lighter. His face looked much younger than his true age. He looked cute.
Eric shook his head before turning his attention back into the darkness of the forest. He couldn't shake off the blush. It felt even warmer from the fire.
Loren furrowed his eyebrows and slightly tilted his head.
"Are you okay?" Loren asked.
Eric glanced at the boy before quickly looking back into the forest.
"Y-yeah...why?"
"Well..." Loren began to say before looking down.
"Usually you'd complain about being on night duty and yet here you are. And it's not even your turn."
Eric gave a cheeky smile towards the boy and scratched the back of his head.
"Oh, well, I just wasn't tired is all."
"Ah." Loren said before the two went back to staring into the dark forest.
They stayed like that for a little while, in silence.
"Eric?"
"Hmm?"
"Are you...well are you happy?" Loren asked before looking up with his big blue eyes.
Eric blinked before looking down at the meek looking Loren.
"What do you mean?" Eric asked a bit confused.
"Well, you seem...sad." Loren said with a frown.
Eric felt guilty. He wasn't trying to look ungrateful. He really wasn't! He really didn't know how he felt. He just wanted to go home. He missed the greasy food, watching movies, working in his mother's garden, heck he was starting to miss school for God's sake! He let out a sigh before leaning back more on the rock behind him. He brought his knees to his chest, wrapping his arms around the bent knees.
The Cavalier let out a long sigh.
"Not really..." he mumbled as he looked up into the sky.
The stars seemed to be extra bright in the clear night sky.
As the Cavalier's mind wandered, he thought about his friends. He hoped they were alright. That they were home safe and sound. He hoped they were able to eat cheese burgers and see whatever movie was playing at the movie theater. He hoped his mother's garden was being taken cared of by his younger brother. He hoped his cat wasn't dead either.
"Eric?"
Eric shook his head. Loren was looking at him with concern.
"Sorry. I'm just thinking..."
"About home?" Loren asked.
Eric sighed.
"Kinda."
"Your friends?"
Eric frowned. He didn't realize how much he missed his friends. He hoped they missed him too. A vision of Hank flashed in his mind. He felt his heart hurt. He had realized how much he cared for his leader. He had known the Ranger since kindergarten. He had been his best friend really; in Eric's mind at least. Eric let out a sigh before crossing his hands on top of his knees and burying his head into his crossed arms.
Loren felt his heart ache for his friend. He couldn't understand what Eric was going through. He never had a home until almost three years ago, when Artic and Listra adopted him. He never knew his parents and had lived on the street for his entire life. He didn't even know how he survived as a baby. So he didn't know how to comfort the Cavalier. He had to do something. He scooted closer to the teen. Eric's head snapped up and turned.
The two boy's mirrored each other. Both sat with their knees to their chest and their arms folded on top of their knees. However, Loren's body was leaning slightly on the Cavalier's right side, on his right thigh. His arm slightly touching the Cavalier's own arm. Their upper thighs were slightly touching. Loren's head was buried into his folded arms, covering the tint of pink on his cheeks. Eric jumped but stayed in his sitting position. His arms flew into the air, as if someone told him to 'put them up'.
The jump caused Loren's head to snap up and look at Eric with wide eyes.
Eric's face was red as a tomato and felt as hot as the fire in front of him.
"W- wh-wh-what are you doing?!" Eric asked with wide eyes.
Loren felt his own cheeks heat up more before looking away. His arms still folded on his knees.
"W-well...I'm not too sure. I've never tried to cheer someone up before. I...I just wanted to make you feel better." Loren said before meekly glancing up at the Cavalier.
Eric couldn't help but gulp as he felt his heart stop for a moment. In the glow from the fire and just the way he was looking up at him, Loren looked so adorable. The Cavalier shook his head, his blush deepening.
Loren looked away, feeling stupid and embarrassed.
"Sorry..." he said before shifting as if to move.
"Wait!" Eric shouted before feeling a bit embarrassed.
Loren stopped and turned to look at him with blinking eyes. This made Eric feel even more embarrassed. He looked away.
"I mean, it's fine. It's not like it bothers me or anything. Do what you want." he said before quickly glancing down at the confused looking teen.
Loren blinked up at the Cavalier for a moment. Eric bit his inner cheek before letting out a huff. He looked back into the forest. He wrapped his arms around his knees.
"Well?" he asked, causing Loren to tilt his head, "I said you could lean on me. Don't tell me you changed your mind, pipsqueak." he said.
Loren couldn't help but chuckle.
"Fine. If you really want me too I will." he said before scooting even closer.
He could feel Eric stiffen at the closeness.
Loren could tell that Eric wasn't use to physical contact. Rather any affection. It seemed that he would jump at a simple gentle hand on his shoulder. He furrowed his eyebrows. He could understand how the Cavalier felt. He was never shown any affection until he moved into the caravan. His 'mother' would give him hugs and kisses on his cheek all the time. He was uncomfortable with it at first too but after a while he enjoyed the attention. He wanted to do the same with Eric. He wanted to show him affection. The thought made the teen blush even more.
Loren knew he was in love with the Cavalier. He had been since the two literally ran into each other almost three years ago. The fact he was the first person to call him a friend had stuck with him. Now that he thought about it, his adopted mother wasn't the first to show the orphan affection. It was Eric to give him affection. He just forgot once he got adopted by his mother and father. Loren scooted even closer before leaning his head against his folded arms, which were wrapped around his knees.
Eric blushed as he didn't move nor did he acknowledge the closeness. It wasn't like he hated the closeness. He just wasn't use to it. The only person who would give him affection or attention like this would be Hank. He could remember one time, after a really bad bullying incident. He had gotten pretty beaten before Hank had walked in. He had gotten so angry and began to beat the boys up. Eric had to stop him from causing too much damage. Luckily, the two boys were too scared to rat out Hank, especially since they would have gotten in trouble for beating up Eric.
He could remember the feeling of being held close to Hank's chest as he rushed to the nurse's office. Sure, he was not fully conscious but he wouldn't ever forget the warmth from those arms. Eric had never felt so safe and happy before. It was that day he admitted to himself that he loved Hank. He promised himself to never share his feelings, fear of losing the blond.
Loren let out a content sigh. He wanted to hold the Cavalier, maybe even rest the raven haired teen's head in his lap and pet his soft hair. It was starting to get a bit long which made his face even more handsome. Loren scooted closer. He wanted to tell the Cavalier how much he loved him. How much he felt safe with him. He glanced up to look at Eric's face. It was relaxed yet serious. It was rare to see the Cavalier in such a serious state.
The moon sparkled from above and the soft glow of the fire in front added to the mood. Loren felt it was the best time to share his feelings. If Eric turned him down, then he could always say it was a joke. But even if he said no, it would hurt. He knew it would be harder the longer he waited to share his feelings. Loren had to do it now.
Eric couldn't help but feel the warmth from Loren's body against his side. His mind was feeling confused. He was in love with Hank. But Loren was crawling into his heart too. He was so confused.
Eric's thoughts were interrupted as he noticed something in the forest. He squinted his eyes as he noticed a faint red glow in the distance.
"Eric I..." Loren began.
"Look out!" Eric shouted as he tackled the other boy.
The tackle was with so much force, the two rolled a bit. The blast destroyed the rock the two had been leaning against. Eric's eyes were wide with fear as he watched as smoke appeared above the spot they had been sitting not moments before. Luckily, Uni had woke from Eric's shout and had dodged the attack. Eric shook as he laid above Loren. Loren's eyes were wide. He didn't even notice the blast or heard the explosion. His focus was on the hovering teen above him.
"E-Eric?"
Loren's voice snapped the Cavalier out of his fear. That was right. Loren was here too. He had to protect him and Uni. He scrambled over to his shield and grabbed it. He blocked another blast just in time.
Loren's eyes widened. Fear began to fill his body. They were being attacked!
Eric grunted as another strong blast was dispelled with his shield. He looked over at the stunned teen. He growled.
"Don't just sit there looking stupid!" Eric growled before yelping at another strong blast.
This one caused him to go to one knee.
"Get outta here!" he yelled.
Loren seemed to snap out of his fear before standing up. He looked around for a weapon. He couldn't leave the Cavalier by himself! Uni rushed over to Loren and nuzzled against him. She knew how much trouble the two of them were in if they stayed there. She seemed to know that Eric wouldn't be able to focus if they were there. They would just be in the way. She had traveled with the group long enough to know Eric would be fine for a little while.
"Go get help Uni!" Loren said before picking up a stick.
It wasn't much but it did have a sharp point to it.
Uni shook her head, making an 'nu-uh' noise.
"Just go!" Loren said before rushing over to Eric, hiding behind him and his shield.
Uni was about to rush over but decided to get help.
"Are you stupid or something?! I said get out of here!" Eric growled, quickly glancing back towards the boy before taking another blast of energy.
"No way am I letting you have all the fun." Loren said with a snicker.
"You're idea of 'fun' is totally different from mine." Eric said with a snort but a faint smile.
Loren continued to hold tightly onto the stick. He was going to help Eric even if he didn't know how to fight.
After what felt like hours, the energy blasts stopped. Eric lowered the shield slightly to look out from behind it. His eyes widened.
"I've finally found you."
"Venger." Eric whispered.
Loren's eyes widened. He looked out from behind Eric. There stood the evil sorcerer. His hands were surrounded with red energy. It was obvious he was the source of the attack.
The fire had began to die out, so the only light left was the moonlight. Not to mention Venger's glowing red energy.
"Give me that shield boy." Venger said.
Eric gulped as he held the shield tighter.
"You certainly have gotten braver since our first meeting Cavalier. Noble as that is, I think you are being foolish. Now give me that shield." Venger said as he began to walk towards the two boys.
Loren growled before standing up. Before Eric could shout at the boy, Loren threw the sharp stick towards the evil sorcerer. Venger swatted the weapon away like a fly before sending a red energy blast at the boy. Loren's eyes widened.
"Idiot!" growled Eric before standing up and pushing Loren down.
He just blocked the attack from hitting himself. However, the attack was strong and sent the Cavalier flying backwards, landing hard on the ground. Loren sat up in shock.
Eric laid on the ground for a moment, a bit stunned. It seemed Venger wasn't holding anything back. He was out for blood it seemed.
"Look out!" Loren yelled.
Eric sat up and held up his shield just in time. He skidded backwards more, even while sitting on the ground. This energy blast seemed to be constant, pushing him backwards. Eric screamed as he held tightly to his shield, eyes closed and fear engulfing his entire body.
The scream turned from fear to pain as his back slammed into a tree. The energy continued to push a bit longer before dispelling. There were some cracking noises from behind the Cavalier. The force of the energy had caused Eric's lean body to crack the tree a bit.
Eric began to cough, spit tinted with light red came from his mouth as he coughed. His shield began to slack on his arm. His head hurt but not as much as his back. He hadn't felt this much pain since that beating from those bullies. He groaned as he laid his head back against the tree. His entire body ached and was in pain.
Loren's blue eyes were wide and full of fear.
"ERIC!" Loren screamed, fear in his face and voice.
Venger chuckled, amused.
"Do you give up Cavalier? Or..." Venger said before turning towards Loren.
"Do I have to 'persuade' you with something or rather..."
Loren paled. He could see the sadistic glee in the man's red eyes.
"someone else?"
Loren couldn't help but shake in fear. He was frozen. He could see the evil sorcerer's hand glowing. But the boy's feet were frozen. He couldn't move. He couldn't speak. He couldn't do anything.
"Don't even think about it, Venger."
Venger and Loren turned to see Eric standing up. His head hung low. His body was shaking. His pants were dirty and had some rips in them from being pushed over small rocks and sticks. Some blood came from those rips. His breathing was a bit ragged. His hair was dirty and messy. His shield wasn't in front of him. It hung at his side, still in his tight grip. His cape was dirty and had some rips in it.
Venger raised an eyebrow at him, a bit amused.
"Don't you even try." Eric growled before looking up.
Eric's face was half covered with blood. He had a cut above his right eye, causing the blood to flow. His lip was busted open. His eyes were filled with fire that caused Venger to take a step backwards. Venger hadn't felt fear like this in a very long time.
"You came after me right? Well, leave Loren outta this." Eric growled, raising his shield as if he was ready for another round.
Loren's eyes widened. His heart skipped a beat.
"If you want this shield, you're gonna have to take it from me." Eric said before taking a few steps forward.
Inside he was freaking out. He didn't even know what he was saying or doing! His body seemed to have become possessed. His mind, the 'reasonable side', was telling him to shut up and run. But his heart was screaming out to protect Loren. It seemed his heart had beaten his reason.
Venger shook off the fear and scowled at the teen. He looked over at Loren, who was just staring at Eric. Venger chuckled before firing an energy towards the distracted teen.
Loren turned towards Venger, wondering why he was chuckling. He found a strong energy blast heading his way. His eyes widened. Before the boy could react, Eric pulled the teen behind him and blocked the attack. He didn't let go of Loren's arm as he stood tall and strong against the attack.
Venger growled and was ready to attack again.
"Over here!" came a shout.
Alarms went off and the sound of people moving around filled the air. Venger huffed before lowering his hand. He would have to wait to get what he wanted. He gave a glare towards Eric. The Cavalier stood his ground and didn't show any emotion, other than anger. Venger found this new courage aggravating.
'I like him better when he is cowering.' he thought.
It was here the men from the village came to the two's aid. Uni was in the front of the pack. She was whining and huffing as she glared down Venger. The evil sorcerer glared at the little baby unicorn before turning it towards the Cavalier.
"Don't think this is the end Cavalier. I will get that shield from you one way or another." Venger growled before calling his black stallion and flying off into the night sky.
Eric stood there for a moment before falling his knees. His shield slipped from his hand as he fell face first into the ground.
"Eric!" Loren shouted before falling to his knees next to the injured Cavalier.
Eric was groaning in pain. He tried to move but found his back screaming at him from any movement. Laying on his stomach was comfortable, as comfortable as laying on your stomach could be. He didn't even attempt to try another position. It was just an uncomfortable pain at the moment, but just the small movement of resting his head on top of his crossed arms, told him that any other position would cause him to pass out. He wasn't even sure how he found the strength to even run over and protect Loren. He figured it was adrenaline that prevented him from feeling this pain. But now that everything was fine, there was nothing stopping it.
"Eric..." Loren whispered, fear in his eyes.
He watched the boy struggle to just rest his head on top of his folded arms. Even that simple act caused the boy to moan and whimper in pain.
"You're hurt...cause of me..." he whispered.
Eric felt himself become guilty. It wasn't Loren's fault, not in Eric's mind. He just wanted to help. Besides, it seemed Venger was out for blood.
"It's not true..." Eric grunted, trying to sit up.
The pain shot down his spine to the top of his head. He cried out and stopped in mid getting up. He was on one knee, his elbows in mid lifting up his upper body. He couldn't move. He looked down and saw the small puddle of red liquid that had come from his forehead and his cut lip. His left eye was closed from the blood covering it. He didn't care about that at this moment as the pain in his back overridden everything else.
"Eric! Don't move!" Loren shouted, fear deep in his voice.
"Artic!" he shouted, looking over at his adopted father.
The man brought over a couple of his best healers. Loren stood up and stepped back as the two men looked over the Cavalier. They gently helped him out of his chest breast and his chain mail. Eric had moaned as his body was being shifted. If he was more coherent, he would have protested at the two taking off his armor. However, he was in too much pain to notice, let alone care. The two placed the armor off to the side, with a clank. It was a surprise to the two medicine men how heavy the Cavalier's armor felt. They had a bit of respect for the young man.
After the armor was off, they began their inspection of his injuries. They made sure to be careful as they moved him around, hearing the moans and groans with each movement. They lifted up his shirt to see some scratches but nothing too serious. They helped lay him back down on his stomach and checked out his back. It appeared to be bruising. The one rubbed the injured back with an ointment to help with the pain. The other man got bandages and water ready to clean the head wound.
The two men worked on the young boy for a while before finally ending their inspection and wrapping of his injuries. They gently rolled him over on his back. Eric whimpered but the ointment seemed to be dulling the pain as it was easier for him to lay on his back.
"How bad is it?" Artic asked, as the two men stood up.
Loren went back to kneeling next to the teen.
"His back is badly bruised. He has a cut on his forehead, but it's not too deep even though there was a lot of blood. There are no signs of inner bleeding. His lip is swollen from biting it. But nothing too serious. The pain in his back is from it being bruised more than anything else." one of the men said.
"However, he needs to rest for a couple of days. It seems whatever magic his breastplate holds, kept him from breaking every single bone in his body. He's lucky it is just a bruised back and a cut on his forehead." the other man said.
Loren let out a relieved sigh. He looked down at Eric. He looked bad with the a bandage wrapped around his head. But it looked better than when it was bleeding heavily. Loren swore he would never forget that frightening sight. He shivered at just remembering it. He shook his head before looking back down at the peaceful face of his friend. He seemed to have fallen asleep. His breath wasn't so ragged, which made Loren feel a bit better.
"I knew this would happen. I warned you this would happen! You should have listened to me!"
Loren turned towards the voice.
"He is just a boy!" said Listra; Loren's adopted mother.
"That boy is a danger to us all! Venger would have never come after us if it wasn't for that 'boy'!" Durik spat before pointing at the injured sleeping teen.
"So keep quiet woman and learn your place."
Loren's eyes widened.
"That 'woman' is my wife." Growled Artic as he stood tall and turned an intimidating glare towards the man who spoke.
"If anyone needs to learn their place, it's you Durik. She deserves your respect. Her voice has as much value as yours, if not more."
Durik seemed a bit peeved at the comment but seemed to be put in his place just from the glare of his leader.
"I also agree with her. We will not leave the boy, especially not while he is in this condition." Artic said with a tone that sounded final.
Loren sat there shocked.
Leave him? Had they actually discussed leaving Eric before? When did that happen? How many times had it been discussed? How many people felt that same way in their traveling caravan? Why would it even be an option of discussion?! Just the thought of it being an option for any reason was making Loren become pissed off.
The boy growled as he stood up, fists clenched at his sides.
"If you leave him, then I'm staying with him!" growled Loren.
"No one is being left behind." Artic growled, looking at his adopted son before glaring back at the man named Durik.
Durik huffed before crossing his arms over his chest.
"Then what do you suggest we do? Venger isn't going to stop coming after us. Not until he gets what he wants."
"Maybe we should just give Venger the shield?" suggest another man.
"No..."
Everyone turned to see the teen in question stirring.
Loren instantly went to his side.
"Don't move idiot. You're hurt." Loren whispered only for the Cavalier to hear.
Eric groaned before sitting up. He could already feel the pain beginning to numb. He figured it was from whatever ointment the men had given him. He would have to thank them, once everything had calmed down anyway. He shifted a bit, noticing a rock large enough for him to lay his back against. He winced as his bruised back touched the rough surface. Once situated, he turned towards the crowd.
"I c-can't give him my shield..." Eric said.
At those words, his eyes widened before looking around for his shield. Luckily it was right next to him. It was here he realized he wasn't wearing his armor, as his armor was laying next to his shield. He looked down at himself. He was left in his t-shirt and pants. Even his gloves and cape were removed. He felt vulnerable and scared. He grunted as he pulled his shield closer to him. Just having the shield next to him made him feel more at ease. Although, he would feel much better to be wearing his armor. He knew that wouldn't be good. He was injured after all and the heavy metal would most likely hurt him more.
"Stop moving! You're too hurt to-" Loren began.
"I know that! But we can't just give Venger my shield!." Eric grunted out before turning pleading eyes towards the group discussing his fate.
"If he gets his hands on it, he'll become even more powerful."
"Well, what do you suggest?" growled Durik.
Eric opened his mouth to say something but hesitated. He really didn't have any idea what to do.
"Well- I..." Eric started, still thinking up a way to keep the caravan safe without having to give the shield to Venger.
"Why don't we look for Dungeon Master? He will know what to do." Loren suggested.
Eric shook his head but hissed at the movement.
"Eric!" Loren said with concern blue eyes.
"I'm fine! Besides, that midget only comes when he feels like it."
"Well then our only option is to leave him, like I've been saying!" Durik growled.
Loren growled before standing up and glaring at the man.
"What is your problem? Are you so much of a coward that you think the best solution is to leave a kid, let alone an injured kid, in the forest?!"
Durik opened his mouth before shutting it. When put that way, it made him seem like an evil man. But he wasn't an evil man, just a man worried for the safety of his family. There were even others that felt the same way as he did. The only difference was Durik wasn't afraid to share his opinion. So if anything, he wasn't a coward. He was brave and a hero to even suggest a drastic move to protecting their family. The boy wasn't even part of their family. He was just some random boy that had caused problems almost three years ago, with his friends. He and his friends had gotten them in danger with Venger once before, so having him journey with them was just begging to be hunted down by the evil sorcerer. They had barely any food before the boy and the unicorn had joined their caravan. If anything, he was dead weight.
"Enough!" shouted the leader.
"As I already said, no one is getting left behind. I suggest we continue traveling north. If we head to the village of the Dragon Masters, then we shall be safe." the man suggested.
"That will take us weeks!" growled Durik. "And what makes you think they will be willing to protect us?"
"That's enough. Let's finish our rest and make our way north in the morning." Artic said before looking over at Eric.
The Cavalier was in rough shape, despite how quickly he seemed to be recovering.
"He really shouldn't be moved right now. He needs to be comfortable." the man said, turning to his adopted son.
Loren nodded. Eric was about to protest, but the boy had already rushed off. It was here everyone went back to whatever they had been doing before the attack. Duirk turned to Eric, who gulped.
"I don't see why we should risk our lives for you." Duirk growled.
Eric shrunk back. He already had a low self esteem. He didn't need to be told he was causing the caravan trouble. He had realized it the minute Venger revealed himself.
"You should either leave your shield behind or just leave. But if you ask me, you should just leave." Durik added before spitting on the ground.
Eric felt a pang in his heart at hearing those words, as well as the pure hatred in those blue eyes of the man.
Uni snorted at the man and gave a soft growl as she stood in front of the Cavalier. She cared for Eric and wouldn't let this guy hurt him.
The man huffed at the adorable baby unicorn. She had moxy, he'd give her that. He turned around and began to walk away.
Loren was heading back just as the man was walking away. He glared at the man, who looked unfazed as he continued to walk away.
Eric watched the man leave with a thoughtful look. Should he really leave? Was he just being a burden to Loren and his family? They had been so nice to him so far. They didn't have to take him in. They barely had enough food for one more person. But they still welcomed him with open arms; both him and Uni.
Uni had watched the man go for a bit before turning around and snuggled against Eric's thigh. Eric snapped out of this thoughts before looking down at the concern looking baby unicorn. Eric couldn't help but smile and gently pat Uni's head.
"I'll be fine." he whispered.
Uni didn't seem convinced but seemed to be enjoying the head pet.
Loren smiled at the little scene as he approached the two. He was holding some pillows and blankets close to his chest.
"It's too cold." Loren said as he dropped the pillows next to the sitting up Cavalier.
"Let's get you closer to the fire." Loren added as he knelt down.
Eric looked a bit confused.
"Why aren't I going to the wagon?"
"You really can't be moved too much considering you hurt your back." Loren said with a frown.
Eric blinked before looking over to where the dying fire was located. It felt like miles away. He looked back at Loren, who looked ready to pick the boy up.
"Why don't we just make a new fire here? I mean, you said it yerself, I'm too injured to be moved to the wagon. So what makes you think I'll even make it to the fire?" Eric said motioning towards the fire, before winching at the small movement.
Loren looked at his friend for a moment before nodding.
"That is actually a good idea...coming from you." he said with a small smirk.
Eric snorted but whimpered at the dull pain from the noise. It would have been worse, however the ointment really was helping with the pain.
"Don't move so much idiot!" Loren said a bit scared.
"I'm fine pipsqueak." Eric growled out.
Loren frowned.
"Liar. But I guess I'll let it go."
"Just make the fire already..." Eric said with a tired sigh.
Eric's body felt cold and exhausted. He could barely keep his eyes open. Loren seemed to notice and nodded before preparing a new spot for the fire. Eric watched with tired eyes as the boy quickly extinguished the other fire before making a new one by the Cavalier.
Eric felt Uni snuggle more against his thigh. It seemed the baby unicorn was getting ready to go to sleep. The Cavalier couldn't help but smile.
"Hey, I'm not a pillow." he chuckled as the baby unicorn yawned and snuggled closer to his thigh.
He smiled warmly before gently petting her head. A soft content sigh came from Uni. This caused Eric's smile to widen. His attention was caught by a clearing of a throat. He blinked before looking up and seeing a grinning Loren. He was holding one of the blankets and a pillow.
"Can you sit up a bit?" Loren asked, looking a bit concerned.
Eric furrowed his eyebrows.
"I can put this behind your back, ya know, make it more comfortable."
Eric looked at Loren for a moment before slowly nodding. He winced as he bent forward. Loren placed the pillow behind the boy.
"Okay, you can lay back." Loren said with a smile.
Eric slowly laid back and sighed at the softness against his back. It seemed to make it feel better. He shifted, but between his shield laying against his one side, and Uni against his other thigh, he couldn't really move too much. Although, the back pain really prevented him from moving too much anyway. He sighed as he leaned back more into the pillow. It was doing wonders on his back. Well, he couldn't feel any pressure on his back anyway, so that was a plus.
"Alright, done." Loren said before tossing a few sticks into the small fire.
He turned to Eric who looked ready to pass out. He smiled before picking up the blanket and laying it over the Cavalier.
"Are you comfortable?" he asked, looking down at Eric with a worried face.
"Well, as comfortable as a guy can be with a bruised back." snorted Eric, "But yeah, thanks." he added with a warm smile.
Loren felt his breath hitch in his throat. It was rare to see Eric's smile. Well, a 'real' smile. Loren had learned over the time he spent with the Cavalier his 'smile' and his real smile. This was one of his real smiles. The boy couldn't help but blush slightly and turn away. Eric blinked at the boy, noticing the small blush. He would have shrugged if his back would let him. But it wouldn't, so he just settled with closing his eyes.
The warmth from the fire and the blanket seemed to sooth the boy. He was really sleepy now. Eric felt his body begin to fully relax and melted back into the pillow. He jumped slightly and gave a yelp when he felt someone sitting very close next to him and it was on the side of Uni.
Uni jumped at the same time and scurried out from beneath the blanket. She huffed as she noticed it was Loren. He seemed to have put his own pillow up against the rock Eric was using. She looked at the Cavalier's other side but found his shield resting there. She made another huff before deciding to rest at Eric's feet.
Neither boy noticed as they were looking at each other with wide worried filled eyes.
"I'm sorry! Are you okay?" Loren said as he was sitting up holding onto his blanket.
Loren didn't feel comfortable leaving Eric outside by himself. Especially with Venger out and about. Just cause the evil man had left, didn't mean he was gone. He could still be waiting for an opportunity to attack the Cavalier again. Loren wouldn't give him another chance. So he figured he would also sleep outside with the boy.
"Yeah...but what are you doing?" Eric asked with a confused look.
"I'm staying with you." Loren said with a nod before fluffing up his pillow and pulling his blanket up to his chin.
"Just because I can't go to the wagon, doesn't mean you shouldn't." Eric said, a bit of guilt growing in his gut.
"It's been a while since I've slept under the night sky." Loren said with a shrug before leaning back against his pillow.
Eric just stared at the young boy who was sitting up next to him. He couldn't help but give the boy a faint smile.
"Fine. Do what you want." Eric said before pulling his own covers up to his chin.
He closed his eyes and tried to fall asleep. However, it seemed despite his body being tired, his mind was more alert as thinking about Loren being out with him with Venger still roaming around. He peeked over at his side, making sure his shield was next to him. His hand rest over his shield, ready to pick it up if he needed. Which hopefully he wouldn't.
(End of Chapter One)
Not sure if any of you remember, but Loren was an actual one time character in one of the episodes. The short interaction with Eric just made me think of this story. I figured I'd share that, just incase you'll were thinking Loren was an OC.
Anyway, I hope you enjoyed this chapter. Hope to see you all in the next chapter!
