Autumnal Equinox

The frost was coming on, his bones always ached and groaned when the frost came. Hart looked over at Aiden, his young apprentice, who worked on carving a delicate jewel box for one of the bakers wife, who would give it to her daughter on Dnes Day. This time of year was their busiest, when everyone would spend their well earned money in the feilds on gifts for others. The skill of Aidens hands was remarkable, almost as good as his own, but he knew that that wasn't a good thing either. He would be taken, and who would be left to make free toys for the children when Hart died? Dnes Day was a good and bad day, it let others show their love and give presents, be merry in the deariness of winter. But if your child was taken, if they were talented, or stood out, then it was a terrible time.

Hart looked out the window, remembering many years ago, how he escaped. He was the only one smart enough to outsmart the smart. They were the most talented and he beat them, but would Aiden be able to?

"Sir? Is everything alright?" Aiden asked humbly.

Hart looked out the window just in time to see the last leaf fall on the aspen tree he grew up with. The world was a painting of warm colors, deep reds and sunny yellows, warm colors, and not so warm air. This winter would be the coldest they'd had. He looked at Aiden, studying his questioning face, face full of concern for him and his old age. He was the oldest in the village. People weren't supposed to last this long, too much like magic they said. And this town had enough of magic.

"Aiden my boy, you are gifted," Aiden paled at the words, everyone knew what that meant. "I am not letting them take you. You will not be taken this year or next year, then you will be free from their hold,"

Aiden dared to let hope into his eyes. "How sir?"

"I did it, long long ago, it was, but if I can, you must be able to as well,"

"How?" Aiden was ready, he didn't want to give up his life here, escepcially with a certain bakers daughter.

"I will teach you everything I can, but know that you must use your own wits to get away. It will take more than just physical strength, many have tried but they are smart,"

Aiden nodded, rubbing his hands together in the cold, though he was next to the fire, jewel box forgotten on his chair. His eyes reflected wirth the fire as he stared into it. A determined look came onto his face. "I'm ready,"