The Final Stand - short story

The lone fortress stood sentinel over the barren landscape, damaged and broken, like a harbinger of doom. Illuminated by the eerie light from the full moon, the shattered spire cast a long and ominous shadow across the wooden footbridge leading into the dark depths of the fortress. Silence gripped the air, like the very earth was holding its breath with anticipation. The walls hummed with a malevolent and strange magic that would make brave souls fall and quiver with fear. Something ancient and evil dwelt within, poisoning the land like a disease. Invisible to the naked eye and lacking any corporeal form, this thing made its presence known from the way it made you feel and influenced your body and mind. 

From out of the darkness, a figure on horseback slowly made its way across the weathered cobblestones of the abandoned road. The slow, rhythmic sound of the horses metal shoes echoed throughout the silent night, creeping closer towards the fortress. Atop this once noble steed sat a knight, his armour weathered and worn, his cape faded and torn. The knights eyes were weary from seeing too much death and bloodshed, his soul was broken from losing everyone he ever loved and cared for. A great longsword that dimly glowed with a cold blue light rested against the back of the horses saddle. Bards sang songs from bygone days about this legendary sword. Imbued with an unknown spell, the “Wraith Slayer” was the only weapon capable of destroying demons and otherworldly beings.

The knight stopped at the threshold of the fortress, lifting the visor of his helmet, he cast his glance towards the tall spire. Closing his eyes, he let out a deep sigh and lowered his head. The time had come. He must face this dark fear so as to vanquish those that were taken from him. He dismounted his horse, unsaddled her and walked around to her face. He gently removed her bridle, and caressed her muzzle in his hands. The air from her nose was warm and kind, reminding him that she was the last living thing in his life that he loved and cared for. Loyal to the end, he thanked her for being his companion and then released her to the wilds. She stood there watching him, refusing to leave. A tear formed in the knights eyes; he closed them tightly, unable to look at her any longer. He turned his back on her and walked towards the fortress, sword in hand.