The Brotherhood of the Eternal Light

The early morning, crisp air hung about the schoolyard. The sun was barely taking the icy feeling away. The basketball court was empty, save for Jake, who was performing intricate skateboard tricks, the wheels clicking rhythmically against the concrete. Ben watched him from a distance, hesitating before approaching.

Jake executed a perfect ollie, landing with the grace and precision of someone who’d spent countless hours honing his craft. He noticed Ben approaching and slowed to a stop, kicking his board up into his hands with a practiced motion.

"Hey," Ben said, shoving his hands into his pockets and trying to mask his nervousness with a casual appearance.

"Hey," Jake replied, his voice cool and detached, like the distance that had grown between them. His eyes were guarded.

Ben took a deep breath, the words he needed to say swirling in his mind. "You’ve been avoiding me."

Jake shrugged, shifting his weight and looking anywhere but at Ben. "I’ve been busy," he said noncommittally.

Ben nodded, "Busy avoiding me."

Silence stretched between them, filled with unspoken tension. Ben could feel his heart pounding, "I'm sorry if I hurt you," he said, his voice sincere. "Choosing to stay with Sam and his family wasn’t about rejecting you. I hope...you know that!"

"I don't," Jake finally met Ben’s gaze, his expression softening. “I think that is the whole point,” he admitted quietly. “Why am I feeling like this? I am never like this with a guy.”

"Sorry! If...I made you feel bad," Ben nodded, his throat tight. “OMG! Why is this so hard?!" He lowered his head, "Everything was so much easier before our balls dropped."

"So..." Jake snickered, his face lighting up a fraction, as he leaned against the basketball pole, setting his skateboard down and crossing his arms. “I'm not mad...there is something...going on between us?"

"Oh, you're bonkers!" Ben smirked. "But...ever since detention...something has been changing."

"I didn't even know..." Jake screamed out in awkward frustration disturbing the nearby magpies scaring them off. "Damn it! This kills worse than algebra." He sighed, calming down. "I didn't even know if you swung that way. You don't talk about that kinda stuff."

"I'm not an emotional robot. It just took a while for my hormones to kick in," Ben said, "I'm not like you. I didn't start high school with a coming out party." Ben had always admired Jake’s courage, his willingness to face things head-on. "I don't even know if I am like you...I can't say I'm exclusive to one gender." He poked Jake, playfully, "Besides, you were dating Alex like five minutes ago and before that some hip-hop guy. You're hard to pin down." He sighed, "Why else would I let off firecrackers at school or create stink bombs in science. It gets your attention."

"Oh! Wait! You're the class clown because of me?"

"Oh! Get off! Not just for you! It's a laugh as well. And with my family drama I could use it," Ben hesitated, feeling a little nervous, "But something happened during our little tete at The Day of The Dead. You were being so comforting than you had to go and touch my face. Something sparked."

They stood there for a moment, the distance between them shrinking as the air seemed to lighten with the understanding that had passed between them.

"Then why did you pick Sam over me?"

"Well...everything was changing so fast, and I thought it would be easier if I just… took a step back. To figure things out." Ben took his hand, "We both didn't need the added pressure of living under one roof...in one bedroom...where things could get complicated real fast." Jake blushed. He couldn't look at him for a moment while he composed himself. "Let's just take our time and see where this goes." Ben and Jake exchanged a glance to agree to a silent agreement between them. "Sweet! Now, let’s go see what Ms. Marlowe has in store for us today," Ben said with a smirk, trying to lighten the mood.

Jake chuckled, nodding. "Yeah, maybe she’ll take us somewhere warm. My nuts are the size of walnuts right now."

Together, they walked towards the school building, the weight of the conversation lifting as they faced whatever adventure lay ahead.

The swirling colors of the time portal faded leaving Ms. Marlowe and her Time Sleuths on a cobbled street in Florence, Italy. The sights and sounds of the bustling Renaissance city enveloped them: the clang of a blacksmith's hammer in the distance, merchants hawking their wares with lively shouts, and the vibrant chatter of townsfolk in rich, colorful attire.

For their journey to Renaissance Italy, Ms. Marlowe had thoughtfully borrowed costumes from the school's recent production of The Merchant of Venice, ensuring her students blended seamlessly into the historical setting.

Ms. Marlowe wore her usual attire that seemed to fit any century, but the students were given costumes from the play.

Emma was dressed in a pale blue silk dress with puffed sleeves and a lace-edged neckline, while Lily wore a striking crimson gown with elegantly slashed sleeves, adding a touch of drama. Ben and Jake sported doublets and breeches, Ben’s in burgundy and Jake’s in forest green, paired with knee-high leather boots and wide-brimmed hats. Sam wore a cream-colored tunic with dark brown breeches, topped with a leather jerkin for a rugged edge. Together, the group presented a vivid tableau of Renaissance fashion.

"Oh ducks!" Emma breathed, her eyes wide as she took in the breathtaking architecture, from the red-tiled roofs to the grand arches of the buildings. "This place is amazing."

Ms. Marlowe smiled; her eyes gleaming with the thrill of their new adventure. "Welcome to Renaissance Florence," she announced, her voice filled with the warmth of shared discovery. "A time of extraordinary creativity and innovation."

Lily was already scribbling furiously in her sketchbook, capturing the intricate details of a nearby statue. “I can’t believe we’re really here,” she murmured, awed by the opportunity to walk the same streets as Leonardo da Vinci. “I need to meet Leonardo. I’ve got so many questions about his art."

"And his inventions," Sam chipped in.

"Just be careful. No time slip ups," Ms. Marlowe nodded, her expression encouraging. "We're here to discover the truth about a rebellion against the city’s corrupt ruler," The woman sucked on her finger than stuck it in the air before her "Oh....Very interesting. The weather is just right." Her students looked at her, "We've also arrived at an auspicious time. The Brotherhood of the Eternal Light will be harnessing celestial energies to rejuvenate the Earth and bring forth a new era of prosperity." She gazed at them all in turn, "So no solo adventures or you might end up as a vestal virgin."

As they followed Ms. Marlowe through the winding streets, they couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder and anticipation about what lay ahead.

The group arrived at the Piazza della Signoria, a large square filled with artists and scholars engaging in animated discussions. The imposing Palazzo Vecchio loomed nearby, its stone walls echoing the power and authority of the ruling elite.

As they wandered through the piazza, Lily was captivated by a group of artists painting under the shade of a large oak tree. Her heart raced with excitement as she approached them, eager to learn their secrets.

Meanwhile, a couple of hooded figures brush passed Jake and Ben. The boys couldn't detect any facial features within the darkened interior of the cowl. The robes were deep green with earthy brown edges, representing their connection to nature and the forest. They were embroidered with gold thread in sun patterns.

One of the hooded figures stopped, turning back to face the two boys. The intensity that radiated from the darkened depths of the cowl caused the two boys to shiver. They felt a cold snap drip their bodies. One of the figures pointed a gnarled finger right at them.

Jake almost jumped out of his skin when Ms. Marlowe placed a hand upon his shoulder, "Those a members of the brotherhood. You best be weary of them." They turned back to noticed that the robed figures had disappeared from the street. "We are living in the time of druid sects that are deeply rooted in ancient traditions and are known for their elaborate ceremonies."

As the warm sun was casting long shadows across the piazza, the group gathered back together in the centre, sharing their discoveries. Sam had found a gathering discussing alchemy and science while Emma had overheard rumors of unrest brewing beneath the city’s surface.

"How can we understand them? I barely speak Australian yet can understand Italian very well."

Ms. Marlowe touched the side of her nose, "I understand Italian perfectly so that means you do as well. Now Emma what did you discover?"

"The ruler’s actions have angered many," Emma reported, her voice low. "There's talk of a revolt, but the details are vague."

Ms. Marlowe nodded; her expression thoughtful. "What an auspicious time! A rebellion and a druid ceremony! Perhaps one fuels the other?"

"I call bull shit!" Jake smirked. "How can butchering someone bring prosperity?"

"Oh! Mr Jamieson! We are dealing with deeply traditional folk," Ms. Marlowe instructed. "Their world view reflects a deep reverence for natural cycles, celestial phenomena, and the mystical forces they believe govern the universe." She gazed up at the sky, "The Brotherhood believe that these offerings can ensure a continued abundance of resources and protection from darkness."

"I've found out where his studio is," Lily burst between them. "Leonardo is this way."

The streets were alive with the sounds of merchants calling out to passersby, the clatter of hooves on stone, and the occasional distant melody of a lute drifting from an open window. Their destination was a modest workshop on the outskirts of the city, where one of history’s greatest minds toiled away on his many projects.

As they approached, the faint scent of oil and sawdust wafted through the air, mingling with the more pungent aroma of paints and pigments. The students exchanged excited glances, each acutely aware of the privilege of being in the presence of a legend.

Inside, the workshop was a chaotic yet strangely organized jumble of canvases, sketches, and half-finished sculptures. An enormous contraption resembling a winged machine loomed in the corner, its skeletal frame an intricate puzzle of wood and leather. A figure hunched over a desk, surrounded by parchment filled with impossibly detailed sketches and notes.

"Leonardo da Vinci," Lily whispered, her eyes wide with wonder. Her heart raced as they drew closer to the man who had inspired countless generations of artists and inventors.

Da Vinci looked up from his work, his piercing eyes regarding the group with curiosity. His long, flowing beard gave him an air of wisdom, and his paint-stained hands suggested a life dedicated to creation.

"Ah, visitors!" he exclaimed, his voice a rich baritone. "What brings you to my humble workshop?"

"I am Ms. Marlowe," Ms. Marlowe stepped forward, “One of my students wishes to learn from the master himself." She ushered lily forward, "I am sure Lily would appreciate any advice."

"You call me a master! You are being too generous, madam," Da Vinci chuckled softly, gesturing for them to come closer. “I am but a master to my own domain and not of others." He turned his attention to Lily, who was practically vibrating with excitement. "I sense you have the soul of an artist. I would be keen to see your skills." Lily nodded eagerly; her cheeks flushed with excitement. "Please take a seat and show me what you can do."

As she settled on a stool, Lily removed her sketch pad from her bag, "I haven't finished. It's still pretty rough."

"Then what a fortuitous time! You shall finish your work under my tutelage."

Da Vinci watched her work giving advice here and there. His presence was calming, his insights profound. He was amazed by her parchment wondering where such canvas had come from. Lily just distracted him with questions about her technique.

Meanwhile, Sam's eyes were drawn to the mysterious flying machine in the corner. "Is that one of your inventions?"

Da Vinci nodded, a twinkle of pride in his eyes. "It is indeed. I believe that one day, man will soar like the birds. It is a dream I hope to see realized."

Emma, ever the observer, noticed a stack of letters on Da Vinci's desk, each bearing the seal of a noble family. Her curiosity piqued, she inquired, "Hey Ducks! Are you involved in the political affairs of Florence?"

"How strange! You refer to me as a waterfowl. You must indeed be from afar," Da Vinci’s expression turned serious, his gaze flickering toward the letters. "In times like these, one cannot help but be drawn into the complexities of politics. There is much unrest beneath the surface, and the city is in need of change."

Ms. Marlowe nodded, understanding the gravity of his words. "We’ve heard whispers of a rebellion."

"Ahh! I see you! Those eyes that thirst for knowledge," Da Vinci studied her intently, as if weighing the truth of her words. "I suggest you begin by observing the actions of the Duke. His intentions are not as noble as they may seem." He sighed, "But mind the Brotherhood. The young are kept close to their mother's breasts during such a time."

The students exchanged determined glances, aware that their adventure was becoming more complex than they had anticipated.

When she finished, Lily's sketch captured Ponte Vecchio standing gracefully, its arches lined with shops selling gold and silver. The Medici Palace looms nearby, a testament to the city's power and wealth. Rolling hills cradle Florence, dotted with cypress trees and rustic farms. Lily's sketch exuded the charm and vibrant life of Renaissance Florence's landscape.

As they prepared to leave, Da Vinci gave Lily a gentle nod of approval. "You have a gift," he said kindly. "Nurture it, and it will take you far." He gave one final warning, "Head my warning. These streets shall not be safe after dark. To your accommodation would be advised."

As Ms. Marlowe and her students departed from Leonardo Da Vinci’s workshop, they could feel the weight of his words hanging in the air. The bustling streets of Florence seemed to hum with an undercurrent of tension, and they knew that beneath the city’s vibrant facade, something significant was stirring.

The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the city. The group navigated through the labyrinthine alleys, following Ms. Marlowe's intuitive sense of direction, in search of lodgings for the night. As they approached the marketplace, the scent of fresh bread and spices filled the air, mingling with the lively chatter of merchants and customers.

It was here, amidst the lively hustle and bustle, that they first began to notice signs of unrest. Clusters of people spoke in hushed tones, casting furtive glances around them. There was a sense of urgency in their movements, as if they were racing against an invisible clock.

Lily's eyes caught sight of a group of young men gathered around a stall, their voices low but intense. Her curiosity piqued, she gestured to her friends to join her in observing the conversation from a safe distance.

"We can’t let him get away with this any longer," one of the men said, his voice barely audible above the marketplace din. "The Duke's taxes are crippling us, and his soldiers patrol our streets as if we're the enemy."

Another man nodded in agreement. "It's time we take matters into our own hands. We've had enough of his tyranny."

"They’re planning something," Sam whispered to the others, his eyes wide with the realization. "This could be the start of the rebellion."

Ms. Marlowe joined him, listened intently, her expression unreadable. "We must tread carefully," she advised, her voice low and steady. "If the Duke's men catch wind of this, it could lead to violence and chaos. We'll be caught up in the blood bath."

Despite her caution, there was a spark of excitement in Ms. Marlowe’s eyes. She knew that her students were witnessing history unfold, and she was determined to guide them through it, safely.

Sam stepped forward and caught the eye of one of the men in the group. He flashed a disarming grin, his charisma as infectious as ever. "Seems like you guys are talking about something important," he said, his voice casual but laced with intrigue. "Mind if we join in?"

The man regarded Sam with suspicion. These foreign devils were not to be trusted. Yet Ben's demeanor made him hesitate. Perhaps it was the earnestness in his eyes or the confidence in his posture, but the man eventually nodded, albeit warily.

"We’re not looking for trouble," the man said, his tone guarded. "But we’re tired of living under the duke's oppressive rule. We’re gathering like-minded people who are ready to stand up and fight for our freedom."

"If there’s anything we can do to help," Sam said, his voice sincere. "I've known enough injustice too."

The man studied them for a moment longer, then nodded. "Very well," he said, his voice softening. "Meet us at the tavern near the city gates tonight. There's a secret gathering happening there, and we could use all the support we can get."

As the group moved away from the stall, Ms. Marlowe gathered her students around her. “This is a dangerous path we’re on,” she said, her expression serious. “Your safety is my first priority, so we observe and only get involved if needed."

Her words resonated with the students, who understood the gravity of their mission. They knew they were on the cusp of something significant. Ms. Marlowe looked about noticing missing students. Where did they go?

The forest closed in around Ben and Jake as they made their way through the thick underbrush, having taken a wrong turn and found themselves separated from the rest of the group. The towering trees blocked out the sun, casting long shadows that made the forest seem even more foreboding. The sounds of rustling leaves and distant bird calls heightened their unease as they trudged through the dense foliage.

"Sweet!" Ben exclaimed. "Lost in the Italian folly."

Jake shook his head, trying to stay positive. "We just need to find our way back to the path. I'm sure it’s around here somewhere."

They pushed on, the ground beneath them soft and uneven. As they moved deeper into the forest, they heard a rhythmic chanting carried on the breeze. The sound was mesmerizing, drawing them toward its source.

"Do you hear that?" Ben asked, pausing to listen more closely.

Jake nodded; his curiosity piqued. "Yeah, it's coming from over there."

They followed the sound, the chanting growing louder as they stepped into a secluded glen deep within the forest. They were surrounded by ancient oaks and hidden from prying eyes. The natural canopy above provided a view of the stars, crucial for the alignment.

At the center of the glen was a stone altar, adorned with carvings of suns, stars, and other celestial symbols. Around the altar, a circle of stones was meticulously laid out, each inscribed with ancient runes.

This circle was considered sacred. It represented the cyclical nature of the sun and its journey across the sky. Without The Sun, there could be no light. Darkness would fall.

The area was illuminated by torches made from intricately twisted branches, dipped in oil, and set ablaze. The flickering light casts eerie shadows, enhancing the mystical atmosphere.

There were several robed figures that seemed to be chanting as they prepared the space for the ceremony. Along with their robes, they now wore a wooden mask carved with an expressionless face, symbolizing the impartiality of the celestial forces they aim to control.

Ben and Jake exchanged glances, both realizing they had stumbled upon something significant—and dangerous.

"No! Definitely not for us," Jake whispered, trying to remain hidden behind the trees.

"This is some kind of voodoo," Ben replied, his eyes wide as he watched the ceremony unfold. "They were into all sorts of weird shit in this period."

As they turned to leave, a rustle in the bushes behind them caught their attention. Before they could react, several masked druids appeared, surrounding them with swift precision. The boys were quickly seized and dragged into the clearing, where the chanting abruptly ceased.

The leader of the druids stepped forward, his presence commanding. His robe was more elaborate than the others, and his piercing gaze behind the mask, causing the boys to shudder inside. The leader circled them slowly, his eyes narrowing as he studied them.

“Ah! The two interlopers!” He said, his voice dripping with excitement. “I was foretold of their arrival. The spirits have brought us our sacrifice.”

Ben's heart sank as the realization hit him. The druids intended to use one of them in their ritual. He glanced at Jake, who was equally horrified.

The leader stopped in front of Ben, his gaze settling on him with an unsettling intensity. "Ah, I can sense it. You are the pure one, untouched and virginal. The perfect offering for our ceremony."

Ben's blood ran cold, the weight of the leader’s words sinking in. He felt Jake tense beside him, their hand finding one another in the darkness, their shared fear palpable in the air.

"No. Not me! I've done it heaps of times,” Ben protested, trying to mask his fear with defiance. "There is nothing pure about me."

"The spirits are infallible in their wisdom," the leader intoned, his voice laced with a chilling, calculated menace that sent shivers down Ben's spine. "They have chosen, and your fate is sealed. On this night, the constellations align, and the moon reaches its appointed axis, forging an auspicious connection between the earthly and celestial realms. Blood must be spilled to honor the coming invocation, a sacred offering to ensure the prosperity and protection of our world against the encroaching darkness."

The druids tightened their grip on the boys, preparing to carry out the ceremony. Ben’s mind raced as he tried to think of a way out, but the odds seemed insurmountable.

Ms. Marlow halted her students on the latest sweep of the village. There was no sign of Jake and Ben. They had disappeared from sight.

"I should have done a head count," Ms. Marlowe shaking her head. "Why would they wander off like that?"

"It's not your fault, Ms. Marlowe. Those two have been in their own little world since they came to class today." She sighed, "It was bound to happen. Those little duckies have been eye flirting for some time."

Lily frowned, whipping about to face her, "No. They are just good friends."

"Who want to suck face so badly," Emma added "Oh. Maybe this old woman can help us?" She went off to ask someone if they had seen their friends.

Lily, meanwhile, looked as if the air has been sucked out of her body. She wilted at the news about the two boys. Her heart being crushed in the dawning realization.

Emma raced back with some news, "Apparently, ducks, The Brotherhood believe that their unique celestial window is tonight." Emma gazed down at her notes. "The energy from a specific celestial alignment, including a rare conjunction of constellations and the shape of the moon, is crucial for channeling the cosmic forces necessary to strengthen the Sun." She looked up almost giddy from delight, "And the Sun is thought to be the giver of light and warmth that is needed for prosperity. They will be performing this ritual at a glen not far from town." She held up a roughly drawn map on parchment paper, "I have a map."

The teacher looked up to the moon, "We must find them before moon gets too high. Emma, lead the way."

Lily wasn't so excited to find them now. She just wanted to go home, bury her head under a pillow and never ever come out.

Emma led the way, her keen senses alert to every rustle in the underbrush. The forest was growing darker, the canopy overhead thickening as the moon shone down between the trees.

As they moved deeper into the woods, Sam suddenly stopped, holding up a hand. “Wait! I think I hear something.”

The group fell silent, straining their ears. Faintly, they could hear the distant murmur of chanting. Ms. Marlowe’s heart skipped a beat.

"This way!" Ms. Marlowe called out, pushing through the foliage with renewed urgency. The group followed her, their pace quickening as the chanting grew louder. The forest seemed to close in around them, the air thick with tension.

After several minutes of hasty navigation, they emerged into a clearing. The sight that greeted them was both shocking and horrifying. Ben was draped across the alter in a white robe, with his chest exposed, bound by golden cord while Jake was lashed to a nearby tree.

The ceremony was in full swing with chanting of incantations in a forgotten tongue. One by one members step forward, each placing a small bowl of aromatic herbs onto the altar. These herbs were set alight, their smoke rising towards the heavens. The leader of the Brotherhood stood before the altar, a ceremonial dagger, crafted from obsidian, clutched between his hands.

The chanting reached a fever pitch, the Brotherhood swaying in rhythm, drawing energy from the earth and sky. The atmosphere had intensified, charged with the anticipation of power and transformation.

The leader raised the dagger ready to deliver the fatal blow, and revel in the blood that would soak the stone.

"Step away from the boy!" Ms. Marlowe shouted, her voice cutting through the chanting. She raised a branch as a sword, ready to defend Ben and her students.

The high priest, his dark robes swirling around him, lunged at Ms. Marlowe with the dagger raised high. The blade flashed through the air, but Ms. Marlowe deftly parried with her wooden weapon, the impact of the strike resonating through her arm. She maneuvered to the side, using her branch to thrust and block, her movements fluid yet fierce.

"Craven harlot! You think you can thwart us so easily!" the high priest spat, his voice echoing with both anger and disbelief. "His fate cannot be avoided. It was written in the stars before you ever stepped foot upon this soil."

The leader swung the dagger in a series of precise, deadly arcs, but Ms. Marlowe matched his moves with swift parries and thrusts of her own. The sound of wood clashing against steel filled the air as they engaged in a desperate dance of combat.

Meanwhile, the students, fueled by urgency and fear, had armed themselves with sticks and branches, their makeshift weapons no match for the Brotherhood's dark magic but sufficient to create a commotion. They wielded their tools with a chaotic but effective energy, shooing away the remaining members of the Brotherhood.

The high priest's focus remained on Ms. Marlowe, his rage driving his attacks. He pressed forward with a series of aggressive strikes, but Ms. Marlowe's skill and determination allowed her to evade and counter his every move. Sweat dripped from her brow as she fought with all her might, the wooden branch becoming a blur of defensive maneuvers.

Finally, with a decisive thrust, Ms. Marlowe knocked the dagger from the high priest’s hand. It clattered to the ground, and in the moment of surprise, she used her branch to deliver a forceful blow, sending him staggering backward. The high priest, wounded and disoriented, glared at her with a mixture of hatred and resignation. He scuttled away to lick his wounds and formulate another plan.

Breathing heavily, Ms. Marlowe lowered her makeshift weapon and turned to her students. "We need to move quickly," she urged. "The Brotherhood will regroup and return. Their blood thirsty practices won't be sated so easily."

Exhausted but resolute, they made their way down a rugged path that led to the heart of Renaissance Italy. The distant sounds of clashing steel and angry shouts grew louder as they approached the outskirts of a small town.

The group soon stumbled upon a scene of chaos. A rebellion was in full swing. Villagers and rebels clashed with the Duke's soldiers, the makeshift barricades and burning torches painting a vivid picture of a desperate struggle for freedom.

The young Time Sleuths exchanged determined glances. Despite their exhaustion, they knew they had to help. They could see that the rebels were fighting with a mixture of desperation and fierce determination, and the Duke's forces, though better equipped, were struggling to maintain control.

Ms. Marlowe stepped back to a seat by a now overturned market stall to wait it out and keep an eye on her charges. She frowned, recognizing Leonardo in the fray, using stink bombs against the duke and his men.

Meanwhile, Sam had leveraged his strategic insight, devised an elaborate plan that outflanked the Duke’s forces, using the terrain and rebel strengths to their advantage.

Jake, ever the daring fighter, led charge after charge with fierce determination, dismantling enemy lines and creating openings for the rebels.

Lily and Emma, blending their artistic ingenuity and resourcefulness, crafted ingenious traps and distractions that bewildered the Duke’s soldiers and disrupted their formations.

Ben fought valiantly alongside his friends. His combat skills were absent, but he did his best with comic timing. a bit of hot shoe shuffle. The soldiers were far more unsettle by his behaviour. The boy seemed mad after all.

Together, the students and the rebels forged a powerful alliance, their combined efforts overwhelming the Duke’s forces and ensuring a resounding victory. The Duke’s regime crumbled under their relentless assault, and the once-tyrannized populace cheered their newfound freedom, celebrating the pivotal roles played by the brave young heroes in their liberation.

Ms. Marlowe sat back sighing, wondering if tea had been invented in this part of time. She could use a cup right now.

Celebrations kicked off at “Il Rifugio,” and it offered a much-needed haven from their harrowing ordeal. They were all warmly embraced by all as food and drink were passed around. Ms. Marlowe had to relieve the three boys of their drink, and even caught the two girls sharing a tankard, more than once that night.

The cozy atmosphere of the inn provided a stark contrast to the danger they had faced earlier. They could finally enjoy being in the past without fear of being harmed.

Jake and Ben found themselves in a quiet corner of the common room. The fire crackled softly in the hearth, casting a gentle light across their faces. Jake, his eyes reflecting both relief and lingering fear, turned to Ben with a heavy heart.

"I can’t believe you almost got gutted," Jake's voice faltered as he struggled to find the right words. "You could have been… hurt or worse."

"No! Don't do this!" Ben met Jake’s gaze with a reassuring smile. “Just because we're a thing...or could be.” Jake’s eyes softened as he studied Ben’s face. “Don't go all marshmallow on me. I don't want whatever this is between us to change how we act."

"Okay!" Jake smirked, leaning forward, "Can I kiss you? Unless that is too marshmallow for you."

"That'd be sweet," Ben smiled back.

Their lips meeting in a tender kiss. It was a quiet affirmation of their feelings, a brief escape from the turmoil they had faced.

When they pulled apart, Ben's cheeks glowing, he said, "Sweet! I'm sure as shit now."

In another part of the inn, Lily sat at a small table, her expression troubled. Emma approached, noticing Lily’s distress. “Hey, are you okay?”

Lily shook her head, her voice wavering. "I feel like such a fool...I didn't know about Jake and Ben...never even gave it a thought."

"Why does it matter, ducks?" Emma sat down beside her, placing a comforting hand on Lily's shoulder. She noticed something flick across her friend's face, "Unless...oh...do you like Ben?"

"Since forever," Lily nodded, tears welling up in her eyes. "I get it. Jake is so much more...normal than I am."

"Hey! Ducks!" Emma frowned. "Don't say that about yourself. You are as normal as any of us misfits." She looked over at the two boys, "The boys just found each other first. Your time will come, and someone will make you forget all about Ben."

Sam finished talking with Ms. Marlowe, raised an eyebrow, noticing the atmosphere between Ben and Jake. He excused himself to pounce on the two boys, “So, what’s going on here?” he asked, a hint of curiosity in his tone.

Ben looked up, "We were just… talking."

Sam noticed the tell-tale signs of scruff burn on their faces, "Yeah! I can see you have been doing a lot of talking."

"I call bull shit!" Jake nodded, his face still a little flushed. "You're just trying to start shit."

"Now don't get so tetchy," Sam sat down beside pointing at both of them. "This is a match I could get behind."

"You don't think it is weird!" Jake said.

"It is only as weird as you make it," Sam glanced over at Emma. "Though they never mention the shit that comes with liking someone. I can't even be with Em in public. We have to sneak around but she is worth all the drama."

The inn, with its warm hearth and the soft hum of distant conversations, became a sanctuary for the weary time travelers. The night was filled with quiet reflection and the promise of a new day, as they prepared to face whatever challenges awaited them next.

Eventually, Ms. Marlowe grabbed their attention, and the group quietly left the inn returning back home.

The students didn't know how she did it, but they arrived back in their classroom to day light. It was a pale imitation, compared with Rennaissance Italy, but night was still to come. They had been gone for such a long time but no one else would ever know. It was just another detention class coming to a close.

#QueerTimeTravel. #FunReads #Leonardo da Vinci #YAFiction #DruidCeremonies