A Tinn’s tale

he snow fell like soft little feathers. Every living soul in the tiny village either was inside and warm, or playing in the snow. Except for five people, who were hurrying along the Old Road. It were Dorus Paral and his family.

He was packed in a thick cloak and travel clothes. Still Robyn couldn’t believe that he really was leaving. The week had passed in a rush, whisper spread among the villagers about his banishment. Robyn heard from Frank the strangest things, like Dorus being a wizard and other absurd things. She sure knew, deep inside, it was best for him to leave Tinn, now everyone was so upset about it. But she was going to miss him so much!

The last week had been one of suspicious politeness and whispers behind peoples hands. Dorus just went on with his chandler work and the selling in the shop. He knew that in one week, all would be over. But it was not the same. People suspected them of silly things, they knew it.

And now they reached the borders of the little earldom. The road led into the fair country, other valleys just behind the horizon.

The last time, when Dorus was accused in Applevalley, he was able to flee with his betrothed Jantine. But now, things were different. Robyn and Merle en Luc were there, and they couldn’t flee with the whole family. And Robyn was going to marry Frank.

So Dorus had to go alone. It was, after all, only he who couldn’t hold his tongue. He might even try some pilgrimage, to see what it was all about, he had told them smiling.

But what he really was going to do, wasn’t clear to Robyn. Perhaps he would settle in another village. But a man living alone.. She didn’t want to think about that and neither did her mother. Jantine was being brave for her husband.

Now this was the border of the village and they would not go any further. From that moment on, Dorus as they knew him was gone.

Jantine leapt into his arms and the children embraced them too, with silent understanding.

They walked quietly home, where they sat quite pointless around the still burning fire. Merle had picked up her sewing, but she couldn’t hold her hands still and pricked in her finger. Jantine couldn’t bear it any longer and went to lie down a while. But when they, at last, went to bed early too, Robyn was sure she heard muffled sobs coming out of the bedroom.