Episode 2 - The Runaway

[Sounds of an ocean breaking along a shore slowly fades in.  Somber music plays.]

NARRATOR

Waves roll in along a dark shoreline, dragging bits of seashell and driftwood through the foamy surf. It is midnight, and a storm is coming.

A lone figure floats on their back within a sheltered cove, a backpack held tightly to their chest. They are young, no more than eighteen, but fatigue is written heavy upon their face. Their cheeks are sunken, and they wear dark circles beneath their eyes.

Their woolen cloak, frayed and patched at the elbows, floats around them in the cool water.  This figure, Ellis, bobs with the waves: up and down, in and out.  In a way, they think to themself, It’s almost like breathing.

They open their eyes.

The sky is dark, the moon blotted over by angry clouds.  Flashes of lightning spark behind them, pursued by the distant rumble of thunder.  Despite this, the runaway is not afraid.

It feels nice to float here—-not huddled beneath a threadbare blanket on hard ground, not hiding in dry grass, and not with heart pumping, lungs heaving, while their feet pound the earth.  Their only desire is a few moments of blissful respite. But such a blessing is not yet theirs to have.  

Ellis is suddenly startled by the sound of hoofbeats.  They open their eyes and begin treading water, impeded by the cumbersome backpack. It can’t be…surely it’s just another pilgrim who will pass by in the night.

But then, they hear it–a chorus of shouts from the shore.  Terror fills them as they recognize the gruff voice leading the mob. Ellis watches, frozen, as the swinging glow of lanterns draws near to the water’s edge.  With nowhere else to go, they take a deep breath and dive.  Below the waves, peace surrounds 

them once more.

They paddle about, searching desperately for an escape.  

Then they notice a massive pile of boulders tum bled down to the seafloor.  A dark crevice yawns between them, just large enough to squeeze through.  Ellis swims down to it, struggling against the swell of the current.  Staring into the hole, they see a tunnel that stretches into the  ttdarkness and seems to curve upwards.  They realize that their pack won’t fit through with them, and so they are forced to release it. As their lungs scream for air, Ellis makes a quick circular motion with their hand.  A glowing bubble of oxygen forms around their fingertips, and they pull it towards their mouth to take a deep breath.  Relief floods them, and they finally wriggle into the darkness of the crevice.

[Theme song plays.]

ELLIS

WELCOME TO THE BRASS EAGLE EPISODE 2: THE RUNAWAY

 

[Sounds of rumbling thunder, the echoing chime of a clock, and the haunting cry of the Brass Eagle.]

 

NARRATOR

Amara hits the floor hard while her world spins.  It feels as if the entire tavern has been plucked from its foundation and sent tumbling through the air, end over end. She is sprawled out in a clumsy heap, but the Keeper lays neatly on the ground nearby.  He glares at her, furious, while she implores him for an answer.

AMARA

WHAT IS HAPPENING?!

NARRATOR

Beyond the tavern’s windows is a swiftly tilting vortex of colors and light, inscrutable shapes flashing by in an instant.  Amara clasps her hands over her head to block it all out.  

Wind howls, thunder rumbles, and lanterns bounce on their chains overhead.

Then, just as abruptly as it began, the storm relents and the tavern groans as it settles back on solid ground.

[Moment of silence.  We hear the drip of water echoing through a  cavern as well as the ticking of the clock.]

AMARA, breathless

…What WAS that?  An…earthquake?

KEEPER, cruel

HA! No. Look outside.

[Sound of cautious footsteps.]

NARRATOR

Amara stands and takes a few shaky steps over to the window.  Gone is the plaza filled with drunken revelers.  Gone is her hometown.  And gone are her friends.

All she sees is a smooth wall of natural stone, its surface slick with condensation, mere inches from the building.

AMARA

What…no.  No, no, no.  Did we…did we fall into a sinkhole?

KEEPER

Ugh, no.  We’re in…some cave, or something.  The better question is why. Are. You. Here?

AMARA

A cave?  What do you mean ‘a cave’?  That’s–that’s impossible.

KEEPER

Impossible?  Tsch. Look out the window again.  I’ll ask again—why are you here?

AMARA

I’m here because…because…I…wanted to get away, get out…

KEEPER

Did you?  Because you weren’t very close to the front door at all.

AMARA

That’s not what I meant!  I…I didn’t think the place would actually–

KEEPER

Actually what?

AMARA

WHATEVER THE HELL IT JUST DID!  (Pleading) Take me back home.  Please.  I’m sorry I stayed, I’m sorry I looked for this place, // I’m sorry I snuck into the bathroom when you weren’t looking–

KEEPER

You sought this place out?! Ugh, Gods. (quieter) …I assume you don’t have anyone waiting for you back home?

AMARA

My…my mum. My friends.

KEEPER

Well, they’re gone.  Or more accurately–you’re gone. I hope you said your goodbyes.

AMARA

You’ve got to take me back!  Please!

KEEPER

It doesn’t work like that.  Rules exist for a reason—NO ONE STAYS PAST MIDNIGHT.

AMARA

Well how DOES it work, then?!

KEEPER

Ugh…Well…every time that stupid clock strikes midnight, the tavern—and everyone inside—are whisked away to some new, exotic corner of the world.  There’s no way to control it and no way to go back. The only guarantee is that it will happen.

AMARA

That’s–

KEEPER

Unbelievable?  Absolutely.  But here we are.

AMARA

So…the clock did it?  Is it the ticking?  Or the bell, or something?  Can’t you just…rewind it?

KEEPER

If it were that simple, I would have figured it out by now.

AMARA

There’s gotta be SOME way!  Please, I can’t stay here!

KEEPER

You’re right.  Get out!

AMARA

What?

KEEPER

My tavern, my rules.  You can’t follow them, and you can’t seem to grasp the fact that you messed up?  Get.  Out.

AMARA

No, I just–let me try something!

NARRATOR

Amara dashes over to the clock and scours every inch of the device, looking for any kind of button or lever.  Eventually, she reaches out to wind the minute hand back but is stopped by the whir of gears.  

The metal eagle’s tarnished wings suddenly unfurl, and it clicks its razor-sharp beak at her as a warning.  It turns its head to glare at her until she finally takes a step back.  Satisfied with her retreat, the bird folds its wings and becomes inert once more.

KEEPER

Don’t touch that thing.  It doesn’t like tampering.

AMARA

Is–is that thing alive?

KEEPER

…I…think so.

AMARA

B-b-but, it’s metal…

KEEPER
And you and I are flesh.  It has gears that move its stupid shiny head, while you and I have muscle, bone and blood to compel us into making stupid decisions. …Decisions like staying past closing in a TELEPORTING TAVERN, for one. 

AMARA

Come off it!  I didn’t know it ACTUALLY WOULD teleport!

KEEPER

What did you think the rumors were ABOUT?! You sought this place out!  You just wanted to, what, go for a little vacation?

AMARA

(Blurting out). There was nothing for me back home!  At least…I didn’t think there was.  But I left my mum. And now she’s…ugh!

(angrier) I don’t owe you an explanation!

KEEPER

If you want to see her again, the best thing for you would be to leave and start walking.

AMARA, shouting

(shouting) TO WHERE?!

KEEPER

(shouting back) ANYWHERE BUT HERE!

(beat.) Look.  …It’s not the first time this has happened, it’s just been a while.  I’ll even pack a bag and give you some food for the road.

AMARA, defeated

…I don’t have any idea where to go.

KEEPER

Neither do I.  But if you stay, we won’t get any closer and will probably end up somewhere worse than we are.

AMARA

I can’t just wander around a dark cave.  Won’t the tavern just…teleport again tonight?  And then I can leave in the morning?

KEEPER

…I don’t know if that’s a good idea…

AMARA

Please.  Just let me stay.  I need to get back home, but…not like this.

[A long pause.]

KEEPER

On one condition.

AMARA

Anything.

KEEPER

You help out around here.  Sweep, mop, whatever I ask.  This is NOT an inn, and since you don’t seem to have any money…you’ll have to work for your stay.

AMARA

…Alright.

KEEPER

Very well.  But the second we teleport somewhere above ground–you’re gone.  Understood?

AMARA

Yeah.  Thanks.

KEEPER

Also! The rules:  Don’t touch anything other than the furniture.  Don’t go near the clock.  And don’t open any locked doors.

AMARA

What’s behind the locked doors?

KEEPER

Don’t ask about them either.

AMARA

Okay, okay.  You got it.  Um…But could I ask you something?

KEEPER

Shoot.

AMARA

(beat.) …Why are you here?

[We hear the sounds of the Keeper picking up a broom and sweeping as he busies himself.]

KEEPER

There’s simply nowhere else for me. I found this place ages ago and by the time I realized its magical nature, I was too far from home to do anything about it.  The way I see it, if the tavern doesn’t want me to leave, why bother trying?

AMARA

Well…you could just leave, couldn’t you?

KEEPER

It’s been so long…I just don’t think there’s much out there for me any more.

AMARA

…Oh. I’m…sorry to hear that. …My name’s Amara, by the way.

KEEPER

(sarcastic) …Pleasure.  Amara…?

AMARA

…Silvertongue.

KEEPER

Really? That’s a bit on the nose. You’re…a minstrel.

AMARA

How’d you know?

KEEPER

…Your guitar?  And who else would wear such a ridiculous outfit?

AMARA, offended

Alright then, Mr. I Live In A Teleporting Tavern and Can’t Keep People Out.  What’s your name?

KEEPER

Nowadays, I’m just the Keeper of this place.  I’ve tried to stop other people from meeting my fate, but I’m not always successful.  And at the end of the day, it’s easier to stay than leave.  I get a dry place to sleep and the Eagle gets its pound of flesh.

AMARA

Does…the Eagle eat…flesh?

KEEPER

Ach, you’re a bard who doesn’t understand what a figure of speech is?!

AMARA, defensive

Come on, this is all new to me! So…I just call you ‘The Keeper’?  That’s weird to say.

KEEPER

You won’t be here long anyways.

AMARA

Right, but how about “Keep”?  That feels a lot  better.

KEEPER

I hate it.

AMARA

Okay, Keep.

KEEPER

Stop it.

AMARA

Come on, Keep, it’s not that bad.

KEEPER

Do you want me to kick you out right now?

AMARA

Fine, fine..  “Keeper.” (cringing) Ugh.

[Sounds of a splash from outside.]

AMARA

…Did you hear that?

KEEPER

Yes.  A splash…?

 

NARRATOR

The Keeper opens the door to peer into the darkness of the cave while Amara sticks close behind him.  The air outside is humid and smells of the sea. The rectangle of light from the tavern’s door glistens off of smooth stone walls and shimmering columns of rock, stretching to the edge of a black pool a dozen feet away.  The water is unnaturally dark and still, and the Keeper’s brow furrows as he squints at it.

A wave of ripples suddenly undulates across its surface, originating from somewhere below.  As the ripples grow, rings of luminous blue light follow the waves, fading as they bounce against the pool’s edge.  Suddenly, something breaks the surface.

[Another splash as Ellis breaks the surface.]

ELLIS

(gasping for air)

AMARA

There’s someone out there!

ELLIS

(coughing, sputtering)

[Sounds of splashing as Ellis swims to the edge of the pool.]

NARRATOR

The head of a dark-haired youth emerges from the depths, coughing and gasping for air.  They paddle weakly to the water’s edge, sending out more cascades of glowing ripples.  They float there, too tired to pull themself out.

Hearing the gasps of both Amara and the Keeper, the teenager looks up and weakly pushes their damp hair out of their eyes.

ELLIS, tired

People, here?  How…?

KEEPER

…Who are you and what are you doing here?

AMARA

Keep, they’re a kid!  Lay off!

ELLIS

I…I was trying to get away.  Found a tunnel. The water was the only way in.

NARRATOR

Amara extends a hand to help them out of the pool.  They pause, staring up at her warily while the Keeper scowls down at them.

Suddenly, the water begins to hum.

The strange blue light returns.  The pool is like a living thing, buzzing and thrumming with the eerie luminance.  The Keeper’s face blanches with startled realization.

KEEPER

We need to move.

ELLIS

W-what?

KEEPER

What is your name?

ELLIS

…Ellis.

KEEPER

Ellis, listen to me.  You need to get out of the water now.

Amara–step away from there.

AMARA

…What?  Why?

KEEPER

I’ll explain when we’re inside.  Ellis, follow me.  One step at a time.

NARRATOR

Ellis hesitates, disturbed by the strangeness of the situation and the Keeper’s sudden alarm.  Around them, the water becomes increasingly agitated, its surface rolling as the flashes of blue grow in intensity and the humming grows louder.

KEEPER

Come on!  Both of you!

ELLIS

Okay! I’m coming!

NARRATOR

Suddenly, Ellis and Amara realize something…it was not the water that was glowing, but rather thousands of tiny insects resting upon its surface, their wings flashing between black and bright blue.  They lift off in a sheet and begin to swarm through the air erratically as their furious humming rises to a near-deafening level.

KEEPER

RUN!

AMARA

What the hell?!

ELLIS

I’m coming!

KEEPER

INSIDE!

 

[The buzzing of thousands of gnats rises to a crescendo, interspersed by shouting and pounding footsteps that go from water to stone to wood.]

 

NARRATOR

Amara barrels through the open door, the Keeper close behind.  Ellis is the last to enter, wincing and smacking at bugs that have begun to bite at their exposed flesh.  As soon as they are all inside, the Keeper slams the door shut and ushers them deeper into the building.

[Buzzing grows muffled as a wall separates them from the swarm.  Sounds of three sets of pounding footsteps.  Sounds of a door swinging open.]

KEEPER

That won’t keep them out! In here!  Supply closet!

Amara–grab your guitar!

AMARA

Huh?

KEEPER

JUST GET IT!

AMARA
Agh, okay!

KEEPER

Ellis!  Come on!

NARRATOR

The Keeper sees Ellis stop short of the closet, nearly invisible amidst the writhing mass of insects.  With no other option, he snatches up a metal spoon and iron pan from a nearby shelf.

ELLIS

Ah!  Ahhh!  They’re biting!

KEEPER

(banging the utensils together)

RAAAAAGH!  RAGH!  AAARGH!

NARRATOR

The man roars as he bangs the spoon against the pan, the racket rising above the buzzing of the swarm.  The insects flit away from Ellis, their paths through the air disoriented and erratic.  

 

NARRATOR

The Keeper snatches Ellis by the wrist and pulls them into the closet, slamming the door behind them.  He grabs towels, napkins, bedding–anything he can find–and shoves them beneath the door.

AMARA

What THE HELL are those things?

KEEPER

Abyssal Gnats; carnivorous insects. Eugh. I’ve never seen so many.  They wait on the water’s surface until something falls in, and then—well, you can imagine.

AMARA

Oh my gods.  Kid–ah–Ellis–are you alright? 

ELLIS

I–I think so.  A few got me pretty good though.

KEEPER

Those bites will get nasty if left alone.  I should have something for the itching…Let me see…

[Sounds of items being shifted aside as he rummages through the shelf.]

KEEPER

Here.  Smear this on.  Should stop them from getting infected.

ELLIS

Th-thanks.

AMARA

How do you know all this?

KEEPER

The tavern ends up in all sorts of places.  I’ve seen these things before. In fact, I should have recognized them the second I saw the water glowing.

AMARA

…Right. So…what now?  We can’t stay in here.

KEEPER

I’m aware.  Can you get your elbow out of my ribs?

AMARA

I’m not touching you.

ELLIS

That’s me, sorry.

[Sounds of three people shuffling around.]

KEEPER

That’s better.  Did you see how I got the gnats away from Ellis?

AMARA

By banging a pot?

KEEPER

By making a lot of noise.  These bugs have extremely sensitive hearing. If a noise is loud enough, they get disoriented.

AMARA

So we…Just scream at them and they go away?

KEEPER

Unfortunately, loud sounds tend to make them much more aggressive.  It’s not really a solution.  If we want to calm them down we’ll need to be…gentler.  Did you manage to grab your guitar like I asked?

AMARA

(reaching for it) Yeah, I’ve got it right–ugh–here.  I can barely move.  

KEEPER

I know, but–You’re going to have to play very softly.  Can you manage that?

AMARA

Yes, I can manage that.  But how do lullabies help?  These are…bugs.

KEEPER

Ages ago, I heard from an entomologist that the gnats respond to the frequency of the air around them or something like that.  That includes music. 

AMARA

So…we’ve got to go back out there?

KEEPER

Yes.  How are the bites doing, Ellis, by the way?

ELLIS

The goop helped a lot.  Thanks.

KEEPER

Don’t mention it.  Here–take this bucket and broom handle.  I’ve got the pan and spoon.  If they come too close, we’ll make a lot of noise—but only as a last result.  Amara, you’ve got to get to the front.

AMARA

…How?  It’s too tight in here.

KEEPER

Just–I’ll squeeze myself back here, Ellis, watch out, sorry–

AMARA

Oof!

ELLIS

Sorry, Amara–tight fit–

[Sounds of shuffling and murmured apologies as the three struggle to let Amara pass to the front.  The sounds of buzzing, still muffled on the other side, get louder as Amara gets to the door.]

AMARA, listening

It sounds like more have gotten inside.

KEEPER

…You’re right.  Damn it.  Alright, you two have to funnel them to the front door.  I’ll make sure it’s open.  We’ll deal with any stragglers once the main swarm is outside.

ELLIS

(hesitant) Mr. Keeper, I–I might be able to help another way.

KEEPER

What do you have in mind?

ELLIS

I…think I can help calm them down.  Just…can you both promise not to be mad?

AMARA

Ok, kid…I promise.

KEEPER

Sure.  I…promise.  But remember—if they get too close?  Make a racket.

AMARA

(whispered) Are you positive this will work?

KEEPER

Don’t second guess the plan.   Not now.

NARRATOR

With that, he reaches past her and flings the door open to reveal a tavern filled with flashing, buzzing insects.  The swarm begins to move towards them the moment they tumble from the closet.

KEEPER

Now!

 

[Amara begins to pluck at her guitar, doing her best to do so calmly.  The buzzing seems to abate, as if the gnats are listening in.]

 

NARRATOR

The trio emerge not with a bang, but with the pluck of a guitar string. Their paths diverge as the Keeper hugs the far wall and picks his way over to the front door.  Amara moves through the center of the tavern, her music growing more confident as she proceeds.  Awe and terror fill her as she steps into the undulating mass of insects.

With each strum, the insects alternate between black and blue, their small bodies drifting dreamily about her like ash blown from a fire.  

She closes her eyes as she plays, but a moment later her foot catches on a table leg and she stumbles.

[Sounds of discordant guitar and then silence; a record scratch.  Music stops.  Buzzing intensifies.]

KEEPER

What are you doing?!

AMARA

Shit, shit, shit!

NARRATOR

Their lullaby interrupted, the insects begin to grow agitated once more.  Amara picks herself up, but her sweat-slicked fingers slip on the strings as the chords vanish from her panicked mind.

Behind her, Ellis swallows back worry, extends their hands, and closes their eyes.  The air around them thrums with electricity as they begin to cast a spell, reaching out to pluck at the strings of unreality.  They run their faintly-glowing fingertips through the air as if drawing a bow across the neck of a violin.

 

[Ethereal violin music, eerily beautiful and reverberating as if from the bottom of a well, begins to fill the tavern.]

 

AMARA

Is that …Violin…?  Ellis, how are you doing that—

KEEPER

(dreamily) …Magic.  Amara!  Play!

AMARA

Ah–right!

NARRATOR

Amara plays, following Ellis’ lead.  The insects calm down and congeal into one large, peaceful mass in the center of the tavern.  Ellis and Amara move in concert, each taking one side of the swarm as their melody guides the bugs through the room.  The Keeper pushes the front door open, and it swings quietly on well-oiled hinges.

The insects at last float out of the building, placated by the two musicians.  The soft chittering of thousands of tiny wings fades as they settle peacefully on the cavern walls.  The Keeper gently closes the door behind them.

[Sounds of a door clicking, then locking.  A few pairs of quiet footsteps.  A pause as the group is able to catch their breath.]

 

AMARA, awed

Ellis…What…was…that?

ELLIS

I–I’m so sorry.  I–I shouldn’t have done that.  Are…are you mad? // I’m so, so sorry–

AMARA

Kid!  That was amazing.  We’re not mad! Right, Keep?

KEEPER

No, not at all.  Where did you learn how to do that?

ELLIS

(pausing, catching breath) I…I didn’t…learn it.

AMARA

Woah.

KEEPER

You’ve never studied magic?

ELLIS

No.  It’s…new to me, though.

KEEPER

What do you mean?

ELLIS

One day, it was just…something I could do.

KEEPER

Fascinating…Something so advanced should take decades of study.  (Beat) Also—I think we’re safe for now, but I want to be sure.

NARRATOR

The others watch as the Keeper takes a small jar and smears a minty-smelling paste around the edges of the windows.  It’s only after he’s closed the chimney flue that he allows himself to collapse into a large armchair by the hearth.

KEEPER

That should keep them away.  They really don’t like the smell of that stuff.  We still need to keep everything closed, though.

AMARA

That’s a relief.  So, Ellis–I don’t think I properly introduced myself.  Amara Silvertongue, nice to meet you.  And that’s Keep.

KEEPER, irritated

-ER!  Keeper!  With an “E-R”.  Ugh. I’m going to the kitchen.  Does anyone want stew?

[Sounds of Keeper standing up and walking to the kitchen without waiting for an answer.]

AMARA, to Ellis

…You look hungry, kid–

ELLIS

Oh, I couldn’t–

AMARA, calling out

Keep–get us two bowls, please.

KEEPER

Sure.

AMARA, to Ellis

He’s got a bit of a stick up his ass but I hope he’s a good cook.

KEEPER, calling out

I heard that.

AMARA

Hmf. So what exactly are you doing down here, Ellis?

ELLIS

It’s–it’s a long story.

AMARA

We’ve got time.

ELLIS

Are either of you from this area?

KEEPER, calling out

Doubtful.

AMARA

I don’t even know where we are.

ELLIS

Hold on, how don’t you know?

AMARA

Oh.  So you haven’t heard of this tavern, then.

ELLIS

No, it’s…huge.  Who are your customers?  There’s so many chairs, and…you’re…in a cave.

AMARA

Eh, I’m actually new here.  Very new.  And the building…teleports.  I don’t know how. It only just appeared in the cave today.

ELLIS

Wait, the whole thing just…moves?

AMARA

Yeah.  I didn’t believe it either, but…I…um.  

(voice cracking) Sorry.  I’m not supposed to be here, kid.

ELLIS

…What do you mean?

AMARA

I…was running from something I shouldn’t have, and got caught up in whatever the hell is going on here. But—that’s enough of that.  I-I’m here now.

ELLIS

(beat) …Amara, why are you helping me?

AMARA

(deflecting) Aw, come on.  Couldn’t just leave you at the mercy of ravenous insects.

ELLIS

But you could have, and didn’t.  Why?

AMARA

…Truth be told, maybe…I guess you remind me of someone I lost.

ELLIS

Oh.

AMARA

But–!  Nevermind.  I’m honestly just happy to help.

ELLIS

…Thanks.

AMARA

…yeah.  You’re welcome.  (muttering) Besides, it was…Keep’s plan, anyway.

[Footsteps and the sound of filled bowls being placed down.]

KEEPER

Alright–It’s not much, but I’ve got beef and vegetable stew here.  Is that alright?

ELLIS

No, I-I’m fine–

KEEPER

Nonsense.  I insist.

ELLIS

T-thanks.

NARRATOR

Careful not to offend their host, Ellis takes a spoonful of the broth and holds it to their nose.  They take a quick sniff.  Amara notices and glances at the Keeper.  What are they worried about?  Poison?  He gives her a slight shrug. Sensing nothing amiss, Ellis tucks into the steaming bowl of stew. Before long, their spoon clinks against the bottom of an empty bowl, and they thank the Keeper profusely.

ELLIS

So good.  Thank you.  That’s the first real food I’ve had in days.

KEEPER

It’s no problem, I’ve got plenty.  Now…when you popped out of that pool and gave us a scare, you mentioned you were trying to get away from someone.  Is that true?

ELLIS

I–it is.

KEEPER

Mm.

ELLIS

I don’t think anyone saw me.  I promise I don’t mean any harm!

KEEPER

Relax.  I think I unfortunately understand what’s going on.

ELLIS

…You do?

KEEPER

I believe so.  Where are you from?

ELLIS

I’m from an area that…doesn’t much like magic.  Of any kind.

KEEPER

The name of your village?

ELLIS

…Arindale.

KEEPER

…OH.  That’s really not good.

ELLIS

Have you heard of it?

KEEPER

Yes.  The tavern actually appeared there a while back.  It’s one of the most superstitious, magic-fearing places I have ever had the misfortune of being.  Things…didn’t go well between me and the locals. Never mind that I can’t actually do magic–being in the tavern was enough.

AMARA

Where is Arindale?  I haven’t heard of it.

KEEPER

 I know what you’re thinking, it’s very far from Tabria.  Oceans away.

AMARA

…I see.

KEEPER, pointed

That’s the side effect of unpredictable teleportation.  You can wind up in some nasty places.  How long have you been running, Ellis?

ELLIS

About…a week now.  They…they won’t give up.  Mr. Keeper, I know you said you can’t do magic, but…Amara?

AMARA

Pfft, I don’t know the first thing about it.  I mean, I’ve seen the occasional street performer who could…I don’t know…turn an item blue if you asked them? But nothing close to what you did.

KEEPER, softly

Well, rest assured I’m not some zealot looking for someone to burn.  It doesn’t sound like Amara is either, despite appearances.  You’re safe here.

AMARA, offended

You’re an ass, you know that?

KEEPER

Eh.

AMARA

Ellis, don’t let him rub off on you. (Beat) How long have you been able to do this stuff?

ELLIS 

Just a few months. One day, I…woke up, and I felt like something was different. Then I could…do things no one else could.

KEEPER

(thoughtful) …Hm.

ELLIS

 I never asked for this, though.  The people chasing me…I know them.  Or…I thought I did. Some were family.  Every time I think I’ve gotten away, they—

(Ellis trails off.)

AMARA

(placatingly) Hey, kid, it’s alright.  They have no idea where you are.  You’re safe.  Right, Keep?

KEEPER

(Distracted) Yes.  And I hope you don’t mind my saying, but this is fascinating.

ELLIS

Have you met anyone who can do magic before?

KEEPER

Oh, many people, and many times.

ELLIS

…What were they like?

KEEPER

About as varied as you can imagine. Magic, arcana…it’s just a way for gifted people to use their willpower to shape the world around them. The forms it takes can vary as much as those who wield it.  I once met a man who could sing to animals and understand their replies, and I’ve seen a tinkerer who could make her creations dance with lightning from her fingertips.

ELLIS

Were any of those people…bad?  …Dangerous?

KEEPER

Well…sure.  I’ve met some who were…overly ambitious.  People can and have gotten hurt.  Magic is a tool.  It’s a means to an end.  And it isn’t entirely without its dangers.  

ELLIS

…What do you mean?

KEEPER

I had a…friend who was a gifted magician.  She was talented–studied for years–and one day, the magic…well, it got away from her.  A ritual went wrong, and…she paid the price. But—caution is important in anything.  Your abilities are a gift, and you should not be afraid to use them.

Those who want to do ill to others don’t need magic to do it.  That’s why weapons exist.  Anyone who tells you that magic itself is evil is either lying or deluded.  People are scared of what they don’t understand, and they assume the worst when they’re afraid. 

ELLIS, chattering

Yeah.  They…they do.

AMARA

Oh no, Ellis–you’re still soaked.  Keep–are there any towels anywhere? We’ve got to have something—

KEEPER

Oh, yes.  Third door on the left, top shelf.

[Sounds of footsteps, a door creaking, cloth rustling as Amara grabs a towel.]

AMARA

Aha. Here you go.

ELLIS

Th-thank you.

NARRATOR

Ellis gratefully takes the towel from Amara and begins drying their damp hair. Suddenly the Keeper sits up with a start, eyes wide.

KEEPER

Gah, the clock!

AMARA

Huh?

KEEPER

Every hour, the damned clock chimes.  It’ll stir up the gnats!

AMARA

Great.

KEEPER

 I can muffle it a bit, but it won’t be enough.  We’ll need to soothe them.

AMARA

By we, I suppose you mean me.

KEEPER, nodding

Mmhm.  Every hour on the hour, you will need to play.

AMARA

…Alright.

ELLIS
Are you sure?  Do you…want my help?

AMARA

Nah, I’ll be fine.  I’m sure you’re exhausted.

KEEPER

Amara–Any minute now!

NARRATOR

The Keeper gathers up a large quilt and holds it out wide as he approaches the clock.  The Eagle reawakens and turns to glare at him.  He takes a step forward, and the bird snaps its beak as he snatches his hand out of the way.

KEEPER

Ha!  Not THIS time!

NARRATOR

He throws the blanket over the bird. The Eagle writhes for a moment before its thrashing slows and it seems to accept its fate.

ELLIS

Is…is the eagle alive?

AMARA

Kind of?

KEEPER

Yes.

KEEPER

Amara, we need you at the window.

NARRATOR

The Keeper unlatches the shutters and Amara steps up with her guitar.  The blanket atop the Eagle stirs, and a muffled ding echoes through the cavern as the bell tolls the hour.  Amara sees the faint pulsing of insects as they stir in response to the noise, and she plays as delicately as she can manage.

 

[Several seconds of mellow guitar playing.  Buzzing intensifies, before slowly dissipating over the course of the next bit of narration.]

 

NARRATOR

Ellis clenches their eyes shut, gritting their teeth as they prepare for the buzzing of the angry swarm.  But they hear nothing other than the muffled ticking of a clock and the distant drip of water.  The Keeper gently closes the window.

AMARA

I think that worked!

KEEPER

Perfect.  Now…just to do that…what, twenty more times?

AMARA

Ahh, Brilliant.

[Footsteps as Amara and the Keeper cross the tavern.]

AMARA

(sitting down) So, Ellis…what will you do now?

ELLIS

I…I don’t know.  Maybe wait it out in case they’re still looking for me.  It’s been a while, so… maybe they’ve moved on?

KEEPER

If they’ve followed you this far, I doubt they’ll give up so easily.

ELLIS

(sighing) …I know.  I…I don’t have any ideas, then.  I have nowhere else to go.

AMARA

Do you…know what would happen if you…went back?  You said some of the people looking for you were family?

KEEPER, quietly

Amara–

ELLIS

I might have called him family, at one point.  But…he’s not.  My father…the things he said, threatened…no.  Growing up, I’d always been told magic and the people who used it were evil.  Responsible for terrible things.  They called them “abominations”—that was the word. 
The first time he saw that I could all of a sudden do…the only thing he said to me was “the world can’t suffer another witch”.  And I…I just started running.

[Silence as Ellis’ words sink in.]

KEEPER

You know…you could stay here.  For now.

ELLIS

A-are you sure? I couldn’t possibly put you–

KEEPER

Ellis, if you’re looking to get away–and I do mean truly get away–you can spend the night here and head off when you’re ready.  But I have to emphasize–the tavern can go literally anywhere.  It’s dangerous, and under normal circumstances I wouldn’t even consider this.

ELLIS

Ok.  I–I’ll stay.

AMARA

Whoa, you answered kinda quickly.  Kid, are you sure that’s what you want?

ELLIS

There’s… nothing left for me out there.  I'm sure.

KEEPER, nodding

Very well.  Welcome to the Brass Eagle.  On a temporary basis.

 

NARRATOR

The Keeper offers a faint smile, and Amara thinks that the expression doesn’t quite seem to fit his face.

A cycle slowly emerges as the day crawls by:  each new hour, the blanketed Eagle chimes.  Amara soothes the swarm and counts the minutes until her next performance.

Ellis’ exhaustion finally catches up with them, and they find their eyelids becoming heavy.  Before long, they are dozing on the couch.

When Amara sees them there, the face of her sister rises to the front of her thoughts.  She gently pulls Ellis’ blanket up just a bit higher. 

When the eighth hour approaches, she delivers yet another performance near the window.  The insects flash as usual before settling.  As she plays the final strum, she can hear distant murmurs and see the flicker of torchlight from an adjoining tunnel.  The Keeper pulls her away from the window, and locks it and draws the shutters.  Moments later there is a harsh pounding on the tavern door.  Ellis awakens with a jolt, and their face is drained of all color.

MALCOLM

(muffled) Open up!  We want to talk.

ELLIS

(panicked) That’s him.  My father.

KEEPER

I–I’ll deal with them.  Ellis, you should hide.

ELLIS

Where?

KEEPER

Behind the bar. Go.

ELLIS

Ok–please–be careful. 

[The knocking becomes louder, more insistent.  Ellis’ hurried footsteps carry them behind the bar.]

MALCOLM

We know you’re in there!  We heard the music playing!

AMARA

(quiet) Damnit, I led them right to us.

KEEPER

It was either we get our skeletons picked clean by insects or this.  Not your fault this time.

AMARA

How nice of you. …We aren’t going to let them get Ellis, right?

KEEPER

Obviously.

NARRATOR

Amara looks at the Keeper for a long moment, and feels a begrudging respect bubbling up within her.  She must admit, she was not expecting such a strong commitment to keeping Ellis safe.  She nods at him.

AMARA

Mm, alright.  I’m with you.

KEEPER, calling out

I’m sorry, we’re not open right now!  Can you come back later?

[Murmuring from crowd.]

MALCOLM

Ohh, no can do.

CLERGYWOMAN

We have matters to discuss with you.  Matters of religious importance.

KEEPER

Ah!  You have…a clergyman with you. Very well. Just give me a moment.

NARRATOR

The Keeper sidles up to the door, out of view of the shifting silhouettes outside.  He gingerly taps the wall, revealing a hidden hatch. He removes something from within.  Amara catches his eye and gives him a quizzical look, but his only response is a finger pressed to his lips as he unlocks the door.  Outside, he sees the group pursuing Ellis: several people led by a bulky man who can only be their father and a clergyman wearing the white robes of the Convalescent Church of Light.

The Keeper recognizes the feverish gleam in their eyes.  These hunters are out for blood.

[Sound of a gentle tap on the wall, and cloth rustling as the Keeper palms something.  Sound of a chain unlocking and a door opening slightly.]

KEEPER

How can I help you?

MALCOLM

Hello.  Please, sir.  We’re looking for my child.

We followed their trail here.  They’re about, say…this tall, dark hair.  We found their belongings–Here, here!  Bring it to me—and we want to return them.

NARRATOR

The man holds up a sodden backpack as if to prove his point.  The others behind him shift about uneasily, and the Keeper notices that each of them are armed.  The man, Malcolm, presses closer to the door.

KEEPER

I’m sorry, I can’t help you.  We’re new here, and–

MALCOLM, leaning in

Listen, I know they’re in there.  Let us take them, and we’ll be out of your hair.  This isn’t your quarrel.

CLERGYWOMAN

Your salvation could be dependent on it.  The gods do not look kindly upon—

KEEPER, dropping politeness

I’m sorry, did I stutter?  Get off my doorstep. Good day.

MALCOLM

We’re coming in.  Careful, folks—whole place reeks of magic!

[Malcolm takes a step forward, jamming his foot between the door and frame.]

MALCOLM

(grunt of pain)

KEEPER

(irritated) …Do you mind moving your foot out of the way?

[Sounds of door being slammed on Malcolm’s foot repeatedly.]

MALCOLM

(wincing) I said, we’re coming in.

KEEPER

You leave me no choice. STAY BACK!

NARRATOR

With a deft flick of the Keeper’s wrist, sparks and smoke emerge from his open palm.  He brandishes a small firework, keeping it hidden from the hunters, sending embers arcing through the air while the scent of gunpowder fills the room.

KEEPER

This place–my DOMAIN–is sacred!  I have lived here for CENTURIES, and any who DARE trespass will feel my wrath!  Turn around, lest you be smote where you stand! 

CLERGYWOMAN

Magic!  Stay back!  Malcolm, he’s a witch, too!

NARRATOR

The Keeper lobs the small grenade out the door before slamming it shut and locking it tight. 

CLERGYWOMAN

WITCHFIRE!

MALCOLM

Gah!  Bastard!

NARRATOR

The Keeper barrels towards the kitchen as Amara turns to watch.  He shouts over his shoulder at her.

[Sounds of footsteps pounding past as the Keeper runs into the kitchen.]

KEEPER

STAY BY THE DOOR!  DON’T LET THEM IN!

AMARA

You’re running away?!

KEEPER

Just keep it closed!  Ellis!

ELLIS

Wh-what’s going on?

KEEPER

Cover your ears and close your eyes. Don’t look outside.

ELLIS

I–

KEEPER

Trust me.  Please.  We’ll get you when it’s over.

ELLIS

…Ok.

[Sounds of banging on the door.]

MALCOLM

LET.  ME.  IN!  Give ME my child–that ABOMINATION–NOW! 

AMARA, shouting

GO AWAY!  You’re NOT getting them!

CLERGYWOMAN

You had your chance to do the right thing, but you’ve chosen your side–the side of WICKEDNESS!  Magic like that can’t be allowed to exist!  Do you have any idea how many people have suffered for it?!

AMARA

Oh PISS OFF!  Ellis hasn’t done ANYTHING!

PRIEST

Not yet, maybe.  Just give it time! I don’t know if you know the holy texts, girl, but their CURSE is the whole reason the gods have turned their backs on us!  Five hundred years.

MALCOLM

ELLLISSSS!!!

NARRATOR

Amara presses her body against the door, struggling to keep it in place as those outside pound angrily against it.  The Keeper emerges seconds later, his arms filled with red-stained bundles wrapped in wax paper.  In one hand, he has a gleaming silver knife.

He sees Ellis curled up, breathing heavily, their eyes screwed shut with their hands clamped over their ears.  His resolve is steeled as he approaches the front door.

KEEPER

(whispered) Amara, I need you to unlock it, quietly.  Only open when I shout.

AMARA, hurried

Okay.

[Sounds of the very gentle unlocking of a door.]

KEEPER

(to Malcolm) Alright!  I see we’re outnumbered.  You’re right.  We have no place butting in where we’re not wanted.  If we cooperate–if we…hand them over…will you leave us in peace?

MALCOLM

(beat) You’ve got fifteen seconds.

KEEPER, pretending

Ellis!  Come on out.

[Sound of the Keeper faking Ellis’ foosteps.]

KEEPER

(to Malcolm) They’re right here.  Can you back away from the door, please?

MALCOLM

…Fine.  Step back, lads.

NARRATOR

Amara watches in horror as the Keeper runs the tip of the knife along the length of one forearm.  A brilliant gash of crimson appears, and blood runs down his arm.  The Keeper slices the cord keeping the bundles shut, revealing slabs of raw beef and pork taken from the larder.   His blood drips onto the cuts of meat, and he produces yet another firework. 

This one is larger, bright red, and to Amara–somehow more sinister.  He ignites the long fuse, wraps it around a cut of beef, and gets into position.

MALCOLM

Alright innkeeper…your time’s up.

KEEPER

I’m just going to open the door… NOW!

NARRATOR

Amara flings open the door, and the Keeper throws the bloodied bundle into the midst of the startled mob.  They can already hear the buzzing. The flicker of blue lights grows stronger, drawn by the scent of raw meat and freshly spilled blood. The door slams shut just before the firework erupts with a loud boom, and the world outside descends into chaos.

 The buzzing of the Gnats rises to a crescendo, and the screams of the mob rise in panic as they are overwhelmed.

Throughout this ordeal, the Keeper peers outside only once. He quickly sits back down, his face grim.  He pulls the shutters closed and begins bandaging his arm without another word.

Amara joins Ellis behind the bar, holding the cowering youth in a tight embrace and placing her own hands over their ears as well.  When all is finally, mercifully silent, the Keeper stands.

 

AMARA, to Keeper

Is it over?

KEEPER, grim

Yes.  …Don’t look outside.

AMARA

What was he talking about?  Magic and the gods, and…?

KEEPER, tired

You haven’t heard?  The clergy’s blamed mages for the gods being absent for as long as anyone can remember.  Hence, the ”Great Silence”, hm?

AMARA

That’s the first I’ve heard of that theory.  I knew some people didn’t like mages, but that’s…

KEEPER

Ridiculous, I know.  Hateful.  The mages were an easy scapegoat.  …Amara–don’t tell Ellis what happened.  These people were rabid.  This was the only way.

AMARA

…Okay.  (to Ellis) Hey.  Hey, Ellis–it’s over.  You’re safe.

ELLIS

…They’re gone?

KEEPER

(grimly) They’re gone.

NARRATOR

Ellis looks at the Keeper, at the grim expression on his tired face.  They glance at the closed shutters blocking the view outside.  All manner of emotions swirl within them.

At that moment, they decide that some questions may be better left unanswered.

ELLIS

I…don’t know what to say.

KEEPER

Then please don’t try to say anything.

ELLIS

…What now?

KEEPER

We wait until midnight.  We, ah…shouldn’t be disturbed again.  I’m sure you’re exhausted.  I’ll show you where you can sleep.

NARRATOR

The Keeper leads Ellis to a second closet.  This one is wider and longer than the first.  Tidy shelves line the walls, their contents strapped down to prevent them spilling when the tavern moves.  The Keeper sets up a small cot, offering Ellis a soft pillow and a quilt.

ELLIS
Thank you.  Again.

KEEPER

You can thank me by not thanking me.

ELLIS

Oh. Sorry.

KEEPER

It’s fine.  Just, also by…apologizing less.  I’m happy to help.  Truly.  Just please holler if you need anything.

ELLIS

Okay. I will.

NARRATOR

The Keeper leaves them to settle in as he shows Amara to the sofa in the common room.  He drops a pillow there, turns to the Eagle, and removes the blanket with a flick of his hand.  He tosses it to her unceremoniously.

KEEPER

You can stay here.  Should be comfortable enough.

AMARA

Thanks. Should we be worried about the gnats?

KEEPER

No.  They’ve had their fill.

AMARA

…Eugh.  Have you had to deal with folks like them before?  You seemed…well-equipped.

KEEPER, ominous

…I have.  It pays to be prepared.  

AMARA

…Noted.  Still, I do kind of think we made a pretty good—

KEEPER

“Oh, we make a pretty good team?”  Spare me, please.  I still want you gone as soon as possible.

AMARA, sighing

You can’t give even an inch, can you?

KEEPER

Fine.  You took direction much better than I expected.  I thought we were done for.

AMARA

What?

KEEPER

I was sure we were going to die today.

AMARA

Why didn’t you say anything?!

KEEPER

Tsch, would that have helped?

AMARA

…I guess not.

KEEPER, yawning

Well.  I think I will be turning in for the night.

AMARA

Oh.  Do you have anything to help with, you know…the clock chiming? It’s loud. 

KEEPER

No. (pointed) Maybe you should’ve thought about that before you decided to stay.

AMARA

Huhuhu, you’re too funny.  Goodnight.

KEEPER

Goodnight.

NARRATOR

He extinguishes the last lantern and disappears through a door.  Amara hears a click as he locks it behind him.  She removes her shoes, pulls up the blanket, and sighs.

The tavern is pitch black as she lays there, hearing nothing but the ticking of the clock.  She stares up at the ceiling and ponders the strange new direction her life has taken.

Somewhere in the darkness, she thinks she feels a pair of eyes on her.  She pictures that massive, uncanny Eagle, and pulls the blanket over her head, turning away from the bird and its clock.

AMARA

(muffled) Ugghh…It’s going to be a long night.

 

CONNOR

Welcome to the Brass Eagle Episode 2: The Runaway

Written and directed by Connor Bushoven, and produced by Connor Bushoven and Michael DeMauro.

 

With sound design by Candace Mortier, Marcus Siniscalchi, Amanda Peach Hughes Bennett, and Yemi Kanmi.

 

This episode features the voice talents of Mike LeBeau as the Narrator, E.R. Hollands as Amara, Maddi Albregts as Ellis, Connor Bushoven as the Keeper, Kevin Urban as Malcolm, and Mary-Anne Stanek as the clergywoman.

 

The theme song for our show, “A New Form”, was written and performed by Polina Faustova.

 

The ending song for this episode is Keep on Keeping On, written and performed by Alyssa Gaiser as the Dread Halla Tavern.  You can find her on Instagram and Tiktok @dreadhallatavern

 

You can follow our show for outtakes, extras, and more on all platforms @brasseaglepod 

 

A five-star review on the podcast platform of your choice will go a long way towards helping us spread the word and reach new listeners.

 

Thank you for joining us, and we will see you next time in Episode 3: The Spriggan.