The Rogue

By Dante Silva and Vanessa Mozes

Elias’s life is ending. His older brother’s wedding day looms on the horizon, and with it, Elias’s displacement from the family farm. His future uncertain, Elias leaves in search of a new life with distant relatives in Ferassi, but when he gets turned around his first day he accepts the help of Lionard, a wandering vagabond who shows Elias wonders and dangers in equal amounts.

Widowed, in debt, and with a family relying on her, Penna has few options for survival. After her employer offers her a job that will erase her every financial burden, she accepts it without question and strikes out alone. Yet she fails to anticipate the unwitting stranger who steps into her life and brings fresh hope.

When Elias spots Penna’s old wedding band, he quashes his endearment to her, but he can’t keep from growing entangled in the job she must finish. As he struggles to piece together her mysteries, trouble from Lionard’s past blindsides them. Elias and Penna must band together or risk losing their dreams of freedom and family to the threat looming over them.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Dante Silva & Vanessa Mozes
• Release date: Dec 31, 2020
• ISBN: 9781005429805

Dante Silva

Authors of fantasy & romance. Lovers of all things fantasy, D&D, games, and books.I am Dante Silva, and I’m joined by my wonderful co-author Vanessa Mozes. We’re both lovers of fantasy and strong characterization and steep ourselves in roleplaying and epic tales regularly. Together, we write fantasy romance stories that we’re excited to share with all of you.

Book preview

The Rogue

Dante Silva & Vanessa Mozes

Copyright © 2020 Dante Silva & Vanessa Mozes

All rights reserved.

Edited by Sarah Collingwood

Cover art by Olie Boldador

Edition: 01

Also by Dante Silva & Vanessa Mozes

Exchanged

Enwtined

The Dryad

The Druid’s Gift

Dedication

For Tyler

Acknowledgments

The Rogue proved a long journey for Dante and I, and I’m so grateful to everyone who helped. First and foremost to our editor, Sarah Collingwood. It was your suggestion this book feature Elias, and what a life this story has because of him! You saw so much potential in us during work on The Dryad, and it’s been a pleasure. To our cover artist, Ollie, you are amazingly talented and captured the spirit of this book. Thank you for making our vision come to life. To Beckie, our rockstar beta reader, you added that extra sparkle and shine.

Finally, to everyone who has read our non-traditional romances and loved them anyway, your love and encouragement kept us going. Life hit hard during the writing and production of this book, and sometimes putting one foot in front of the other became a struggle. But we kept going. Time changes, and heals, and shapes, and I look forward to where it will take us.

Chapter 1

WELL, aren’t you going to say anything? Zacharai tapped his foot.

I’m thinking, Elias replied.

"Thinking? Zach blew a dusty strand of hair out of his eyes. I asked you to be the witness at my marriage ceremony. You’re supposed to say ‘yes’ without needing to think about it."

Elias stared past his brother’s scowling face, choosing to focus instead on the locked, splintering barn doors. Father had already gone inside the house, which should have raised suspicion. That man never turned in early. One day, Elias would walk into the field and find Father dead on a horse that still tugged a plow.

Then again, maybe life wouldn’t wait for such an outcome.

Agree already, Zach huffed, breaking Elias from his thoughts. You should be honored. Besides, you’ll only have to sign a paper. His eyes narrowed. Unless you don’t want me to marry Iris.

Of course I want you to marry Iris. Elias grinned. I spent all that time teaching you how to get the burnt bits off a skillet so you could impress her. I’m glad to know my investment was worthwhile.

The angry flush spanning Zach’s neck faded as he tilted his head. Then why are you stalling?

Because life as I know it is ending, and I’ve only now realized it. Elias should have guessed his time on the farm was dwindling when Zach proposed to Iris, yet here he was, belatedly coming to terms with being the fifth wheel on the wagon. You don’t need me anymore.

Zach tore a hand through his mussed, blond hair. "I feel like I’m talking to the barn. Have you listened to anything I’ve said? I need you to be my witness."

Elias’s face fell at the wounded knot marring his brother’s brow. Of course you do. But...I mean, once you and Iris have a few brats of your own, you’ll have plenty of helpers on the farm. And when Father works himself to death, which we both know is inevitable, you and Iris will take over.

Do you want it instead?

Elias couldn’t tell if Zach’s eyebrow was quirked in concern or curiosity, but the question smacked Elias like a wet cloth regardless. He shrugged. I’ve never really considered it.

Then what’s upsetting you? Zach shielded his eyes against the setting sun. And more importantly, why are you making a big deal out of this? I’d expect Julian to overcomplicate this kind of situation, but not you.

Their youngest brother had left a little over two years ago to explore the world. Needless to say, Julian wouldn’t make it to the wedding, even if Mother’s letters telling of the joyous event reached him in time. Elias thought of his little brother now and again. The farm was quieter without him. For Julian, music meant everything, much like the farm meant everything to Zacharai. But what’s important to me? Where do I want my life to go?

I don’t know why I bothered asking, Zach muttered. He waved his hand and turned to walk toward the farmhouse.

All right, Elias said. Zach paused and looked back at his brother but didn’t say anything. Elias chuckled. I’ll be your witness, but only this once.

Zach smiled and leaned against the barn doors. "Good. Like I said, you won’t have to do much, and we can practice before the ceremony next week if you’re that troubled about it."

That’s not the issue, and I really am happy for you and Iris. You’re both about to have a new beginning, but for me, it’s the end.

Grow up. Zach rolled his eyes. My getting married doesn’t mean that your world is ending.

Elias sighed and looked at the field of grain, its long stalks swaying in the breeze. I’m twenty, the same age you were when you proposed to Iris. He smirked. After such a long engagement, I hope your feet aren’t growing cold.

Zach’s smile vanished as he pushed off the barn door. Don’t change the subject, and stop sulking. You’re acting like a middle child.

I’ve never felt like the middle child until now, Elias said, scratching his chin. Julian was always the odd one out, and you lacked personality, which gave me a chance to shine.

Zach shook his head. I managed to find a wife, and even Julian knew how to talk to the town girls. He crossed his arms. Maybe it’s time you find someone who makes you happy.

And how would I support a family? Elias asked. Besides, anyone interested in me is likely sad they couldn’t be at the altar with you.

"Huh. Maybe I could teach you a thing or two about personality."

The fading light made it difficult to tell, but Elias thought Zach might just have been smirking. When had his big brother learned to loosen up? Elias didn’t want to think long on that question, yet he remained rooted in place as Zach brushed past him. The barn’s shadow loomed over him, threatening to swallow his youth, his future, and any chance of fulfillment. Change whirled about him like a mad dust devil, and he could either cling to the life he had or release it into the unknown.

Elias sunk further into his favorite chair beside the fire and let his eyes droop. The only time his family went into the sitting room was on special occasions, which now included the week before Zacharai’s wedding. Mother hummed happily in her rocking chair, embroidering the kerchief she would give to Iris as a wedding present. Opposite her, Father and Zach played a game with pebbles, heedless of how their board crinkled wedding day instructions in Iris’s handwriting.

Should you be ignoring those? Elias didn’t really care, but he wouldn’t pass up an opportunity to tease Zach. Iris still has time to say no.

I’m not ignoring them, Zach said, moving a pebble on the board. We’re just taking a break.

You haven’t even looked at them yet.

Father laughed as he snatched up Zach’s pebbles and won. Let him enjoy his last few nights of freedom, Elias. After the ceremony, he and Iris will have the rest of their lives to argue amongst themselves.

Don’t make marriage seem too inviting, Mother said, hardly glancing up from her work. "We wouldn’t want our son to enjoy being with his wife."

Father harrumphed. If they can get past the first year without killing each other, they’ll be fine.

Rousing speech. Elias’s grin earned a smile from Mother.

Come on, son. Father patted Zach’s shoulder. I think it’s time we had a little chat, from one husband to another.

Elias did his best to suppress his shudder. If for no other reason, he would remain single just to avoid having that talk later in life, the one about raising brats and acting as head of the family. Father had already taken them to the singular brothel Cloma had to offer on each birthday between fourteen and eighteen, so there was no mystery surrounding the marriage bed. The tale Mother told them about children hatching from Ferassi dragon eggs was similarly debunked, though Father’s child-rearing techniques had probably been inspired by the scaly creatures.

The fire crackled as Father and Zach left the room, the sound of the front door closing behind them. For a moment, Elias entertained the idea of asking Mother why Father had thought the brothel was a good idea, but he decided against it. Some questions weren’t meant to be answered.

Zacharai tells me you’ve agreed to be the witness, Mother said, switching to Ferassi.

Are you surprised? Elias asked in the same language.

Yes, that you hesitated.

He sighed and stretched his legs. I didn’t mean to, but I had an epiphany that distracted me.

She stopped her needle and looked over at him. What kind of epiphany?

One where I’m no longer needed on the farm, where Zach and Iris have four brats who take over one day, and I become the odd uncle who doesn’t know what to do with his life.

Oh, Elias. Mother set her embroidery hoop atop the game board and moved to sit across from him. "How long have you felt this way?

A couple of hours. It had been years since he’d last pouted, yet he still struggled to keep his lips from puckering.

Did we do something to make you feel no longer welcome? she asked, the edge of concern obvious in her voice.

No! He flashed Mother his best smile in an attempt to ease her concern. It’s not that. Really. But this farm is Zach’s life and always has been. It’s been mine too, but I know it can’t continue to be.

Mother folded her hands on her lap. Let me try asking a different question. Where do you want your life to continue, if not on the farm?

I don’t know, but I haven’t had long to think about it.

Well… She drummed her fingers in thought. Perhaps it’s time for some soul-searching.

You’re not suggesting anything lifelong, are you? Elias tensed but quickly shook off his apprehension. Then again, it’s not as if I’m in any rush. Where would I start?

Her eyes sparkled, and she scooted forward, like she’d been waiting for him to ask. There’s a whole map of places if you’re interested. I could give it to you.

Until two years previous, Elias hadn’t known Mother’s map existed, and he’d since believed that Julian took it when he followed in Mother’s footsteps and became a wandering musician. Elias knew he couldn’t stay on the farm, and Cloma didn’t hold a promising future either, but he couldn’t see himself wandering aimlessly from place to place like Julian.

Then again, he could always pick a spot on the map and go there, just to see if it held anything worthwhile. Mother still had family in Ferassi, and Julian was out there somewhere, living his dreams. If Elias searched his soul well enough, maybe he would find something along the way, and if nothing else, he could meet his family. With a smile, he nodded. I can think of one place I’d love to visit.

Zacharai and Iris grinned at each other, hands hovering over a polished wood altar. The farm’s largest ash tree provided dappled shade from the unobscured blue sky, and a spring breeze rippled about the happy couple. Zach wore his best tunic, embroidered by Iris with fine threads along the hem and sleeves, while she wore a simple cream dress. White daisies adorned her gold hair, which was pinned back from her face.

All of Cloma sat in the benches behind Elias, never ones to miss an occasion to celebrate. Any other day, he would be more than ready to join in the festivities beside them, but today a swirl of nerves distracted him. He swallowed as the priest of Baseer wound a ribbon around Zach and Iris’s hands. The priest beamed at the crowd, shallow wrinkles forming at the corners of his mouth. If I may have the witness stand beside the happy couple for the binding.

Elias stood, stares boring into his back as he tread across the grass. They had practiced this ceremony the day before, but the simple task of walking became monumental with family, friends, and acquaintances watching his every move. Stealing a look over his shoulder, he saw the familiar faces of Father’s family sitting in the shade, content in knowing what their future held. Elias could see memories of love and friendship reflected by those in the crowd, but he couldn’t see his path forward in life. I’ve never been too close with Father’s side of the family, and I’d rather not live out my life working for them, but Mother’s side… If there is some part of me missing, maybe it’s in Ferassi. And if it’s not, Zach will always be here if I decide to come back.

Light gleamed off the altar as the trees swayed in the wind, and Zach and Iris glanced at Elias, their grins putting him at ease. Once the ceremony ended, no one would remember his small part as witness. Everyone was here for the most talked about couple in Cloma, and Elias took comfort in that.

Baseer wraps you in his arms as you are wrapped in this ribbon. The priest clasped the couple’s hands, a soft glow settling over their overlapping fingers. You are bound together in spirit and in mind. He turned his attention to the guests. Bear witness to Zacharai and Iris’s marriage, now solidified before the eyes of Baseer. The couple may now seal their bonds with a kiss.

Pulling Iris to him, Zach bent down and kissed her. Elias let out a long breath as the crowd erupted into claps and cheers. His part was almost done, and by this time the following day, Cloma would be behind him. One moment too many passed before Zach pulled away from Iris, smiling wider than Elias had ever seen.

The priest motioned to the guests. Please make your way to the tents. The newlyweds will follow shortly.

Mother went to the altar and pulled Elias into a hug. You were wonderful.

After all that practice, I hope so. Elias winked.

It was perfect, Iris said between giving Zach kisses. I never want this moment to end.

Just wait until tonight, Zach murmured.

Elias stumbled back with a gag. I’m glad you two are happy, we all are, but please keep yourselves together until this evening.

I never tire of seeing newlyweds. The priest unwound the binding ribbon and handed it to Mother for safekeeping. They’re so full of life and new possibilities, making us older folk feel young again.

Father put an arm around Mother. That they do, and grandchildren will make me feel even younger.

Laughing along with everyone, Elias didn’t think the comment funny. Father’s jokes seldom were, not that Zach or Iris minded. Like most newlyweds from Cloma, they probably hoped to conceive a child during their first year of marriage. If Elias ever married, he would take some time to enjoy his wife’s company before throwing a new responsibility into the mix.

Elias, the priest said, I’m ready for you to sign the marriage documents.

Elias rubbed his hands together as he approached the altar. Right. I’ll have you know my cursive is spectacular. He followed the priest to a tent apart from the festivities where some papers waited.

Just one line, then you’re done. The priest held out a quill to Elias. He took it, and with a quick jot and a few flourishes, he signed.

And that’s it. There’s nothing more for me to do here. He returned the quill to the inkwell, nodded to the priest, and exited the tent. Not sure if that makes me feel any better or not, though.

Was that so bad? Zach said, slapping Elias on the back as soon as the tent flap closed behind him. Life has continued to go on around us.

Elias collected himself and smirked at Zach. There were a host of friends out there who would have been happy to take my place.

I didn’t trust them to take the part of witness seriously. It had to be you.

Unexpected pride swelled in Elias’s chest, but he couldn’t let his brother know that. Consider it my gift to the both of you.

Zach’s smile faded. Mother said you’re heading out in the morning.

Did she? Elias crossed his arms and glanced sidelong at Mother, who fixed Iris’s hair near the altar. I wanted to tell you myself once your big day was over.

I’m glad she told me. If you’d waited, the news would have ruined my evening.

As if that could be true. Elias rolled his eyes.

Zach sighed. You’re right, but it’s still going to be sad returning to the farm without you.

You won’t be lonely for too long, not if all that talk of grandkids comes to pass. Elias looked over the green fields. Besides, this is your legacy, not mine. It’s been fun surviving Father together, but I’m ready to do more with my life.

Just promise to return one day, at least to visit.

Elias pulled his brother into a hug. I can manage that.

And don’t forget my advice, Zach said, pulling back with a grin. If you’re ever in a bind, remember my personality, and I’m sure you’ll get through.

I made you two loaves of bread to start your journey. Mother pushed the cloth-wrapped bundle into his hands. Your waterskin is filled, I gave you all of my old camping gear and an extra blanket, and I already sent a letter to your grandfather about your visit. Am I missing anything?

Father leaned against the kitchen table. Give him any more to carry and we’ll have to arrange for a pack horse as well.

My map! Mother clasped her hands over her mouth. You can’t leave without my map.

It’s right here. Elias shifted the loaves into the cradle of his left arm and patted his pack. Really, I’ll be fine. Worse comes to worst, I’m sure there will be some farmers along the way eager to pay for extra hands, and I already know not to look twice at any daughters they might have. Don’t worry about me.

"I’m your mother. I’ll never not worry about you."

He pulled Mother into a half hug as she wiped her teary eyes. Unlike Julian, I’ll send letters home more than once every three months, that way you’re not left wondering.

Father snorted. Being away from his mother hasn’t made him more considerate.

It’s easy to pick on him when he’s not here, Elias defended, a rush of satisfaction rising in his chest at Father’s surprised gape. I’d better leave before I say anything else.

Mother waved a scolding hand. Don’t argue during this precious time. Who knows when I’ll see my youngest sons in this empty nest again. There’s one last thing I’d like to pass onto you, something that used to bring me a bit of luck as I traveled. She pulled a square of cloth from her apron pocket and unfolded it. Your grandfather made this just for me.

A short rope of woven thread lay curled in Mother’s hand, tiny gems braided into the cream and brown strands. Elias took up the talisman and ran a thumb over the smooth fibers. Nostalgia and longing filled him over a trinket he’d never seen before, further solidifying that his choice to search out family was the right one. He re-folded the cloth and put it in his pocket. This is amazing, Mother. Thank you.

Don’t feel bad about leaving us old-timers behind, Father said, wrapping his arms around them and squeezing tight. At least we know your spine is thick enough to take on the world.

For