Stories beyond the novels

Tales from the Threshold

Short stories, forgotten legends and fragments from worlds both real and imagined.

“Grandfather, tell me a tale.”

Thorvald leaned against the railing, watching the coast. It was the first time Max had called him grandfather. The ice between them was beginning to crack.

“A story, you mean.”

Max frowned.

“What is the difference?”

“Tales are meant to put children to sleep. Stories are meant to wake them.”

The boy did not seem satisfied with the explanation.

“When there are stories that pass down wisdom and counsel,” his grandfather added, “why should we tell tales?”

Max huddled deeper into his oversized coat.

“Then tell me a story.”