“Potionmasters Pt. 9”

Author’s Note: This is a Take Ten to Write story and has not been proofread for errors. If I feel inspired or if there’s interest in the story, I’ll post a revised, edited, and extended version at a later date. Happy reading!

Additional Note: While this story can be read by itself, it is a continuation of a previous Take Ten to Write story. Therefore, it would be beneficial to read the previous parts of the Potionmasters story which can be found here.

Prompt: “I never want to go back there!”

“I never want to go back there!”

I wince as another bottle smashes on the other side of the wall behind me. Berirn is huddled at my side, just as she always is during these fights.

“It’s okay,” I tell her, stroking her head. “It’s just Corell having another one of his fits.”

Berirn lets out an annoyed mewl before slowly slinking away.

The room beside me goes quiet as Corell finally calms down. It’s days like today that I wish I had taken Hidir up on his offer to go live at the shop with him rather than at the orphanage. Then again, after the incidents from the past few days, I’m glad to be able to give him a bit of space.

A knock on my door. I turn around to see Corell standing in the doorway, clutching his teddy bear to his chest.

I hold back a sigh; it’s not exactly polite to sigh at the mere sight of a five-year-old in your doorway.

“Whatcha up to?” he asks, walking into my room and dropping onto the ground next to Berirn. Surprisingly, she doesn’t seem to mind him constantly pulling her tail.

“Trying to finish this batch for Hidir,” I tell him over my shoulder as I continue mixing. I’m going to need a serious massage when I’m done.

“Why are you doing it here?” Corell asks frowning at the cauldron that’s taking up most of my room.

“The shipment’s already two months late,” I mutter. “I’m just trying to help however I can. That includes working some late nights at home.”

Corell falls silent for a moment before asking, “Are you going to make this home explode too?”

I stop mixing abruptly and turn to face him. He’s still petting Berirn innocently.

“Go on, get out of here,” I tell him softly. “It’s late.”

Corell pouts but gives Berirn one more pat before grabbing his stuffed animal and leaving.

Final Comments: I’m enjoying creating the backstory for this protagonist!

Overall Rating: 🙂