HOME | DD

Description
“𝑪𝒍𝒂𝒂𝒂𝒖𝒅𝒆!‟ Calls Clement from high up in the tree. “I give up!” Claude runs in the direction of his ten year old brother’s voice. He finds him sitting up on a thick tree branch swinging his legs.

”What do you mean you give up?” Claude says looking up at his brother.

”𝑾𝒆𝒍𝒍 you were taking too long to find me and I was getting hungry.” Clement climbs down from the tree. “I guess I’m just too good of a hider.” He says puffing out his chest.

”Yeah okay but guess what, 𝑰'𝒎 a faster runner than you. Last one home gets the stale piece of bread!” With that Claude playfully pushes his brothers head down and takes off toward their cottage.

“NO FAIR!” Cries Clement as he tears off after his brother.

In a shuffle of feet both boys try to out do each other, not wanting to get the stale piece of bread for super. Claude makes it home first shortly followed my Clement. Though they are panting both of them are laughing as well. When they walk in the smell of their mother’s ratatouille fills their noses.

“Looks like you boys had a full day. Go wash up, supper is almost done.” Still in competition the brothers race each other to the bathroom nearly knocking their father over.

”Woah you two!” Says their father chucking. “Where you would think there were a heard of mad bulls after you.”
“Sorry papa!” They call in unison.

Burlio looks at his wife and shakes his head.

“What are we going to do with those two Ethelinda?”

Not long after the boys wash up they are sitting at the table, waiting to tuck in to their mother’s home cooked meal.

“Okay, so who would like to say grace tonight?” Asked Ethelinda.
”I’ll do it mama.” Volunteers Clement.
”Good.” Says Ethelinda giving a slight nod smiling.

All of them bow their heads and Clement begins to say the blessing.

𝑫𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒈𝒐𝒅. 𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓'𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒇𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒐𝒏𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕. 𝑾𝒆 𝒂𝒔𝒌 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒂𝒕𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒇𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒌𝒆𝒆𝒑 𝒖𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒔𝒂𝒇𝒆. 𝑶𝒉 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝑪𝒍𝒂𝒖𝒅𝒆 𝒂 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒌𝒆𝒓 𝒔𝒐 𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏'𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒕𝒐 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒆. Claude lifts one eye open to peek at his brother smirking. 𝑨𝒎𝒆𝒏.

“Thank you son, that was a very nice prayer.” Says Burlio smiling over at his youngest son.

The Frollos pass the modest meal around the table. It’s not much but it is enough to feed the family of four. When it comes time to pass the bread, Claude deliberately takes the staler piece. Clement looks at him confused.

”But…you won the race to the house? I though that meant that I would have to get the stale piece?”

”Well…you are a pretty good hider, so I thought maybe you should have it tonight.” Claude looks fondly at his brother and his parents look at both of their children with smiles on their faces.

After dinner the boys head up to get ready for bed.

“Papa! Are you almost ready? The story isn’t going to read itself!” Shouts Clement from his bedroom. Not long Burlio pops into the room book in hand.

”Don’t worry son, you will get your story, like we do every night.” Burlio sits down on the bed and Clement clambers into his lap. Claude stretches out propping his head up with his hands. “So boys, this is the story of Jirdy Weaver. He slides the ocean to find and help those who couldn’t help themselves.”

”So..he was like a hero?” Clement says his blue eyes full of wonder. Burlio chuckles and ruffles his son’s light brown hair.
”You could say that. So ready to hear it?”
”Yes!” Says Clement enthusiastically.

As Burlio finishes the last of the story Clement has fallen fast asleep, but Claude is still awake. Claude chuckles softly. Burlio tucks Clement snug under his blankets and gently kisses him on his forehead.

”It’s funny papa, Clement always wants you to read a story but then he falls asleep.”
”Well you know how your little brother is.”
”Yeah, that I do.”

Burlio looks up to see his wife standing in the door way.

“Hello dear, what brings you here?” Says Burlio sarcastically. She gives him a squinty look.

”Oh just what I do every night. Tuck our boys into bed.” She says a hint of a tease in her voice. Ethelinda strides in and as her husband did, kisses her son on his forehead. Claude then climbs in his own bed and positions himself under his blankets. Both his parents come kiss him good night and exit the room. Not long after Claude is too fast asleep.

***

The next day Claude and his brother are up early. Today is a special day. The Frollos have decided to treat their children to a day at the country fair. There will be rides, food, and games. As soon as the boys are dressed the hurry downstairs.

”We’re ready!” They both say in unison.,
”Didn’t you boys forget something?” Says Ethelinda putting her hands on her hips.
”Ummm..Claude what did we forget?” Says Clement turning to his brother.
”I don’t kno-𝒐𝒉.” Says Claude with realisation in his voice. “We forgot to feed Jet.”
”Oh yeah.” Said Clement.
”Now before we leave, I’m sure Jet would appreciate having breakfast.” Said their mother.

Both Claude and Clement race around grabbing arm fills of hay and buckets of water. They hurry toward the barn plops the hay and water into Jet’s trough and pat him goodbye. When they are finish they meet their parents at the front of the cottage and once again in unison say, “𝑵𝒐𝒘 we’re ready!”

When they arrive at the fair Clemente blue eyes are wide with awe.

“This is so cool! Where do we begin?!”
”Let’s ride 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕!‟ Claude points at a fair ride with a bunch of swings hanging from it.

“Yeah let’s go!” As they take off in a run the heat their mother’s voice.
”Boys!” Both of them halt and look back over their shoulders. “Restez ensemble et soyez prudent!” She calls to them in French.

“Okay maman!” They call back.
”And Claude, look out for your younger brother!”
”Yes mother! I will!”

Ethelinda turns to her husband with an amused look on her face.
”Those boys have so much energy!”
”You can say that again.” Replies Burlio.

When Claude and Clement reach the swings ride, both of them find a swing close to each other.

“This is going to be so fun!” Says Clement craning his head around to look at his brother.
“Just hold on tight okay?”

“Don’t worry Claude, I’ll be fine.”

Soon the ride makes a jolt and behind to spins, gradually picking up speed. After two full rotations, the riders are hoisted several feet up into the hair and the ride picks up speed even still.

”Wooohoooo!” Claude can hear his brother shouting with his arms outstretched. His light brown hair flys back in the wind. “I’m flying! Weeee!” Claude laughs out loud and joins in his brother’s shrieks of fun.

Once the ride comes to an end and lovers back to the ground. Both boys get un buckle their safety belts and hop out of the swing. They are a bit wobbly on their feet due to the constant spinning. Clement proceeds to fall over but his brother quickly catches him before he hits the ground. They both laugh as the regain their balance.

“What should we ride next?” Ask Clement. Claude looks around and sees a white wooden rollercoaster. The sign above it reads. 𝑾𝒊𝒏𝒅-𝒓𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒓

”What about that one?” He says pointing.
A flash of uncertainty appears on Clemente face but quickly says. “Let’s do it.”

As they stand in line waiting their turn, they watch the rollercoaster swish by as riders before them enjoy the ride. With each passing train cart a whoosh of air ruffles their hair.

”This looks so cool! We have to sit right up front, okay Clement.” Again, another flash of uncertainty crosses Clemente’s face but he nods his head resolutely.

Finally it is there turn to board the ride. Claude takes Clement’s hand and leads him to the front cart. Once everyone is seated the ride conductor goes around to double check everyone’s seat belts. As the Frollo brothers wait for everyone to get checked, Claude notices that Clement isn’t as excited as he was when the ride the swings.

”Clement?” Clement looks at his brother. “If you don’t want to ride, we don’t have to. I won’t be mad.”
”No, I want to ride it. I’m just a 𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆 bit nervously.” He says trying to cover the fact that he is more than a “little” bit scared.
”Well, don’t worry, I will be right here with you. I’ll keep you safe.” Clement looks over at his brother with a smile.

Not long after the rollercoaster starts and begins to move forward. It turns around a bend and begins to crank up the incline. Clement reaches over and grabs his brother’s arm, heart pounding. As the train comes to the top of the hill, it pauses a minute then release and at a breath taking speed, plunges down the drop. Clement grabs his brother’s arm even harder and squeezes his eyes shut. He hears Claude’s screeches of mock terror mixed with fun and he decides to opens his eyes.

Claude glances at him with a big grin on his face. Pretty soon Clement’s thrill over takes his fear and he laughs and screams the whole rest of the ride. Finally, the rollercoaster pulls back into the dock and all the passengers are let out.

”Okay I can’t believe I was even sacred! That was awesome!” Cries Clement.
”Toldya it would be. Let’s go find mama pin and papa. I’m getting hungry.

The brothers quickly scan the crowd searching for their parents. Not long they spot them look8ng at a rug at one of the shops.

”My you boys look like you’ve certainly been having fun.” Said their father, looking at their wind blown hair.

”Yes papa! We rode the swings and then we went in their 𝑩𝑰𝑮 rollercoaster and I was only a little scared but then it was fun because Claude made sure I was safe.” Claude looks away shy.

“Well good, for you boys. Are you hungry yet?”
”YES!” They cry in unison.
”Alright, what would you like?”

The boys look around as different scents of delicious foods fill their nostrils.
”Can I get cotton candy?” Says Clement
”I like popcorn…oh and..the dough looks good…and..
“CANDY APPLES!” Clement and Claude shout in unison. Burlio laughs.
”Tell you what, how about you boys share a fried dough and a candy apple?”
”Okay!” They both say.

Burlio walks over to the food stand and picks up both fried dough and a bright red candy apple shimmering in the sun light. He divides them in two pieces and hands the to his sons. As they eat their faces light up as they taste the savoury of the dough and the sweet of the apple.

”So good!” Mumbles Clement with a mouth full of dough.
”Mmmhmm.” Claude agrees also with his mouth full.

When they’re done Claude notices a bunch of other kids playing games.
”Papa? Can we have some coins to play games?”

”Sure, but use them sparingly. And remember if you lose don’t get to down on yourself. The thing that matters is that you had fun and tried your best.” He pulls out a couple of gold coins and hands them to his eldest son. “Now America sure there aren’t any holes in your pockets.” Claude checks all of his pockets then checks his brothers too, who laughs at the patting of his hands.

“Nope! No holes.”
”Alright off you two go.”
”Thanks papa!” Says Claude. Once again they are running off to have some fun.

“Which one do you want to play first?” Asked Claude.
”Mmm I always wanted to shoot an arrow. Let’s do that one!” Says Clement excitedly.
”Okay.”

When they walk over to the game booth, the man automatically begins his spiel.
“Test your aim! It’s not a pain! Win the game! Whataya say! You two up for the challenge?”
”You bet I am!” Says Clement determined.

”Alright, all you have to do is hit all three of the paper birds as they go by. Think you can do that?” Clement nods. The man hands him a bow and arrow. He takes it and looks back at his brother.
“You can do it Clement.” He encouraged.

The paper birds begin to fly by and Clement aims one eye closed. He releases one arrow and to his surprise it lands. “Alright!” Says Claude pumping one fist in the air. Clement repeats what he did the first time and once again hits his mark with a satisfying “thonk.” He loads his last arrow and shoots, but to his dismay he misses. His heart sank.

”It’s alright, Clement.” Says Claude putting a sympathetic hand on his shoulder. Two out of three is pretty good!”
”Yeah, but I was so close.” He says disappointed.

”Remember what papa said? It doesn’t matter if we win or loose as long as we have fun. And did you have fun?” He looks up at his brother with a small smile and nods.
”If only I had more practice. Do you think papa would get me a bow and arrow?”
”Umm…well I’m sure he could probably make one. Well that if manan doesn’t think it’s yoo 𝒅𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒔.” Said Claude mockingly. Clement laughs.

”Hey! Clement look over there!” Clement turns his head. “Can we do that game?” Over near one of the food booths is a cup swiping game. He shrugs.
”Sure okay.”

As they walk over there is a young girl about Claud’s age finishing up her turn, with a look of disappointment on her face.
”Good luck.” She says glumly. “It’s really hard.”
”Do you think you can do it Claude?”

“I don’t know…but I’m gonna try.”

Set up, on the table in front of the game instructor are three cups.

“Alright son, the game is simple. All you have to do is guess which cup the stone is under cup after I scramble them up. Got it?” Claude nods his head. “Okay, let’s begin.”

The man places the pebble on the table under one cups and briskly starts rearranging them. Cause carefully followed his movements, dark grey eyes never leaving his quick hands.

“Okay, which cups is the stone under?”

”That one.” Says. Claude quickly. Pointing at the cup in the middle. The man lifts up the cup revealing the stone underneath.
”Very good! Now the next one will be a bit harder.

Then man puts the stone back under a cup, and at astonishing speed rearranges the cups. When his hands come to a stop, he asked again where the pebble is. Claude ponders a minute and his watching brother holds his breath.

”That one. It’s under the one on the left.” Once again his guess is accurate as the game instructor lifts up the cup.

“Right again! But can you guess accurately this last time?” The game instructor sings with a glint in his eye. Claude gives him a level look. For the last time the instructor mixes up the cups with amazing fluidity. “Now son, choose carefully. Where is the stone?” Claude is silent for a moment.

”It’s not under any of the cups.” He says plainly. A look of surprise crosses the face of the man behind the booth. “You said that the game is simple. Pick which cup the stone is under. You never said that it was a guarantee that there would be a stone under the cup. So the answer is the stone is under neither of these cups.” Claude finished explaining. The man just gapes.

“Well, congratulations young man. You indeed are a very insightful.” A grin appears on Claude’s face. “Which prize will you choose?” He surveys all the prizes hanging on the wall until his gaze rest on a purple and black sling shot.

”I’ll take the sling shot.” The instructor walks over and takes the slingshot off the wall and hands it to Claude. Clement immediately runs over to congratulate his brother.

”Wow Claude that was amazing! You are so smart! I probably would have lost on the first try!” Claude chuckles. “Oh I don’t know about that.” Suddenly Clement comes to an abrupt halt and Claude bumps into him. “Clement are you alright?” His brother’s eyes are glued to a blue and orange bow and arrow hanging on the prize wall behind a dunk tank.

“Claude..how many coins do we have left?” Ask Clement in an urgent voice.
”Umm..six.”

”Do we have enough for this one?” Claude looks over at the sign, which reads 8 coins. “Sorry Clement we only have six coins..this one you need eight to play.” A well dressed boy most likely from a family that is well off, notices the disappointment on Clements face. He pulls lightly on his father’s sleeve.

”Father can we give that boy over there two of our coins. He hasn’t enough to play that game. His brother with him is 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 smart. I saw him playing the cup game and won. 𝑵𝒐𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒚 ever winds that game.” The boys father ponders for a minute then smiles and ruffles his son’s blonde hair.

“Of course, that is very kind of you Remey.” Excuse me son.” Says th boys gather walking you to the Frollo brothers. I hear you two are in need of two more coins to play the dunk tank game. I have two to spare if you would like. Clement’s eyes go wide.

”Yes please sir! Thank you so much!”

The man drops the two coins in Clemente hands and tells him good luck on his game. Clement immediately goes over the the dunk tank with Claude behind him. The first couple of contestants throw their balls trying to dunk the crooked tooth man sitting in the chair above the tank. Some balls miss, and some hit the target but unfortunately not with enough force. The man apologies and says try again next time, but doesn’t seem to care about the feelings of those who fail. Next up in line is Clement who has one thought in his head. To win that bow and arrow.

”Next!” Calls the man in the dunk tank chair. Clement takes the balls and steps up to the mark.”Well boyo, you look pretty small. Do you really think you can dunk me?” He says with a smirk on his face.

”I’m gonna try!” Says Clement face resolute.
”Well alright, let’s see what you got.”

Clement throws the first ball. He hears a thonk but the lever doesn’t budge. The throws again. Once again the ball makes contact with the lever…but the man doesn’t fall. 𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈'𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕. 𝑪𝒍𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒉𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒐𝒏. Claude thinks to himself.

“Come on Clement! You can do it!” Clement throws his last ball which again hits but doesn’t budge. Claude can see the defeat on his brother’s face. Tears well up I’m his eyes and he sulks over to Claude and cries.

“I know papa said that it doesn’t matter if you win or lose, but Claude I really wanted to win that now and arrow. I guess he was right, I’m just two weak.” He says tears still streaming down his face. Claude hugs his brother close to comfort him. He catches the man starting at them. A look of smug satisfaction on his face. Releasing his brother he marches up to the dunk tank and examines the target.

”Hey! What are you doing!” Get away from there kid!” Claude ignores him and slams on the target with all his might. Sure enough it doesn’t move. 𝑰 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒔𝒐.

This man is a fraud and a scammer. Says Claude yelling toward the crowd. “He’s cheated my little brother and I’m sure many other kids here! By locking the target in place so no matter how hard it’s hit it won’t budge!” At this point many people hear the commotion and come over to see what’s going on, include the boy’s parents.

Ethelinda’s blue eyes go wide. “Burlio look!” She says pointing. “It’s 𝑪𝒍𝒂𝒖𝒅𝒆!”

“This crook shouldn’t be allowed to stay at this fair.” Chides Claude.

Authorities now gather around the tank checking the target. Sure enough as Claude had pointed out, it is locked.

“The boy is right. It’s locked.” The crooked tooth man is seething upon where he sits.

“This is ridiculous! I didn’t know the thing was locked!” No one bought his story. One of the authoritative men switches the latch unlocking the target.

“There, now it should work properly. And as for you sir, you’ll need to come with me. If you refuse we will remove you by force.” He says in a stern tone.”

”Wait!” A man’s voice is heard through the crowd. It’s the blonde’s boy’s father who have Clement the two coins. Everyone turns to look at him. “My son Remy asked me to give this boy and his brother two coins so they could specifically play this game. Now that it works properly, I say we let him have his chance to play fair and square.” He looks at Clement. What do you say Clement would you like to try again?” He gives a small nod and takes on of the balls, but he hesitates.

“I can’t, Claude you do it.” He says in a small voice. Claude bends down a bit to look in his deep blue eyes.

“Clement, you can do it, I believe in you. All you have to do is throw it. I’ll be right here.” He says smiling affectionately at his younger brother. The crowd murmurs words of encouragement.

Clement once again raises himself to throw the ball and takes one last glance at his older brother, who gives him an encouraging nod. With all his might he hurled the ball with a high pitched grunt. It nails target smack in the middle dropping the pitiful man into the water. Immediately the crowd cheers. Claude runs over and picks his brother in the air.

”SEE YOU DID IT! I TOLD YOU YOU COULD DO IT!” Clement laughs at the top of his voice! Their parents make their way through the tight crowd and join in in the celebration. When the noise dies down one of game instructors from the other booths walks over.

”So of course winners get pick a prize what would you like son?” Clemente eyes shoot over too the wall with the bow and arrow. The man gets the hint. “Ah a fine choice. He walks over and takes it down then hands it to Clement who gratefully takes and hugs it close.”

”Thank you.” He says.
”Do guess you don’t have to ask papa to make you one anymore.” Says Claude grinning.

“You were going to ask me to make you one?” Ask Burlio raising his eyebrows.
”Well you see we played an archery game and Clement was great! He hit two out of three targets and they were 𝒎𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈!‟
“All I have to say is you two better be careful!” Ethelinda pipes up. Both boys look at each other and grin.

The crowd begins to disperse as the fair comes to an end and the sun begins to go down.

“Are you boys ready to go home?” Asked their father?

”Yes papa. We had loads of fun. Thank you for bringing us today.” Says Claude. Burlio ruffles both of his sons’ hair at the same time.
“You are very welcome.”

***

By time the Frollos get home it’s complete dark and the twinkling stars dot the sky.

“Hey Claude! I bet I can hit 3 pine ones off that tress easy!” Says Clement holding his new bow and arrow over his head. Claude laughs.

”Okay, how about I challenge you to a little competition with this! He holds up his slingshot he won at the fair. “First one to hit all their targets gets the stale piece of bread tomorrow for supper.” Said Claude.

”You’re on!” Replies Clement.

”My you boys don’t run out of energy do you!” Sighs their other. “Aren’t you in the least bit tired?”
”Nope!” They both say at once.
”Alright, seeing as you have no classes tomorrow, I will let you stay up an extra hour, but no more.”
”Okay maman.”

As the boy’s parents head inside they automatically go into competition mode. Claude was able to hit a few pine cones off the trees, but Clement deemed a natural with his bow and arrow. Hitting almost every pine cone he aimed at. The both fall back in the grass looking up at the star painted sky. Claude turns his head to look at his brother.

”You beat me fair and square. I get the stale bread tomorrow.” Claude smiles at his brother the stars glinting in his blue eyes.
”Thank you Claude.” Says Clement softly.
”For what?”
”Without you I wouldn’t have the bow and arrow.” Says Clement.
”But you threw the ball and hit the target. You won it for yourself.”

”𝒀𝒆𝒔 but I mean if you hadn’t exposed that filthy crook, he would still have been cheating people out of their money. You’re a 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒐 Claude.” Clement looks at his brother with total admiration.

”Well I don’t know abounding a hero, but you’re my little brother. It’s my job to look after you. And 𝒏𝒐 𝒐𝒏𝒆 messes my little brother but me.” He said giving a wink. Clement smiles and rolls onto his back.

“Claude, do you think one day I can go to space? I mean, it must be really big up there.”
”Mmm maybe. I think you have to wait till you’re older though.”
”Well when I am older I am going to go into space and bring back a star for mother and father.”

“I’d bet they would love that.” Said Claude encouragingly.
”And Claude?”
”Mm?” He says looking at his brother again.

“I’m going to bring you the 𝒃𝒊𝒈𝒈𝒆𝒔𝒕 star in the universe, if I can find it. No, 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 I find it. Because hero’s deserve big things.” Claude looks at his little brother fondly as he watches the amazement, almost seeing the wishes come true in his mind. They sit there in comfortable silence, gazing up at the sky. Pretty soon the both of them fall asleep under the stars, until their parents come outside and carry them off to bed.

Description
“𝑪𝒍𝒂𝒂𝒂𝒖𝒅𝒆!‟ Calls Clement from high up in the tree. “I give up!” Claude runs in the direction of his ten year old brother’s voice. He finds him sitting up on a thick tree branch swinging his legs.

”What do you mean you give up?” Claude says looking up at his brother.

”𝑾𝒆𝒍𝒍 you were taking too long to find me and I was getting hungry.” Clement climbs down from the tree. “I guess I’m just too good of a hider.” He says puffing out his chest.

”Yeah okay but guess what, 𝑰'𝒎 a faster runner than you. Last one home gets the stale piece of bread!” With that Claude playfully pushes his brothers head down and takes off toward their cottage.

“NO FAIR!” Cries Clement as he tears off after his brother.

In a shuffle of feet both boys try to out do each other, not wanting to get the stale piece of bread for super. Claude makes it home first shortly followed my Clement. Though they are panting both of them are laughing as well. When they walk in the smell of their mother’s ratatouille fills their noses.

“Looks like you boys had a full day. Go wash up, supper is almost done.” Still in competition the brothers race each other to the bathroom nearly knocking their father over.

”Woah you two!” Says their father chucking. “Where you would think there were a heard of mad bulls after you.”
“Sorry papa!” They call in unison.

Burlio looks at his wife and shakes his head.

“What are we going to do with those two Ethelinda?”

Not long after the boys wash up they are sitting at the table, waiting to tuck in to their mother’s home cooked meal.

“Okay, so who would like to say grace tonight?” Asked Ethelinda.
”I’ll do it mama.” Volunteers Clement.
”Good.” Says Ethelinda giving a slight nod smiling.

All of them bow their heads and Clement begins to say the blessing.

𝑫𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒈𝒐𝒅. 𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓'𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒇𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒐𝒏𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕. 𝑾𝒆 𝒂𝒔𝒌 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒂𝒕𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒇𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒌𝒆𝒆𝒑 𝒖𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒔𝒂𝒇𝒆. 𝑶𝒉 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝑪𝒍𝒂𝒖𝒅𝒆 𝒂 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒌𝒆𝒓 𝒔𝒐 𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏'𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒕𝒐 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒆. Claude lifts one eye open to peek at his brother smirking. 𝑨𝒎𝒆𝒏.

“Thank you son, that was a very nice prayer.” Says Burlio smiling over at his youngest son.

The Frollos pass the modest meal around the table. It’s not much but it is enough to feed the family of four. When it comes time to pass the bread, Claude deliberately takes the staler piece. Clement looks at him confused.

”But…you won the race to the house? I though that meant that I would have to get the stale piece?”

”Well…you are a pretty good hider, so I thought maybe you should have it tonight.” Claude looks fondly at his brother and his parents look at both of their children with smiles on their faces.

After dinner the boys head up to get ready for bed.

“Papa! Are you almost ready? The story isn’t going to read itself!” Shouts Clement from his bedroom. Not long Burlio pops into the room book in hand.

”Don’t worry son, you will get your story, like we do every night.” Burlio sits down on the bed and Clement clambers into his lap. Claude stretches out propping his head up with his hands. “So boys, this is the story of Jirdy Weaver. He slides the ocean to find and help those who couldn’t help themselves.”

”So..he was like a hero?” Clement says his blue eyes full of wonder. Burlio chuckles and ruffles his son’s light brown hair.
”You could say that. So ready to hear it?”
”Yes!” Says Clement enthusiastically.

As Burlio finishes the last of the story Clement has fallen fast asleep, but Claude is still awake. Claude chuckles softly. Burlio tucks Clement snug under his blankets and gently kisses him on his forehead.

”It’s funny papa, Clement always wants you to read a story but then he falls asleep.”
”Well you know how your little brother is.”
”Yeah, that I do.”

Burlio looks up to see his wife standing in the door way.

“Hello dear, what brings you here?” Says Burlio sarcastically. She gives him a squinty look.

”Oh just what I do every night. Tuck our boys into bed.” She says a hint of a tease in her voice. Ethelinda strides in and as her husband did, kisses her son on his forehead. Claude then climbs in his own bed and positions himself under his blankets. Both his parents come kiss him good night and exit the room. Not long after Claude is too fast asleep.

***

The next day Claude and his brother are up early. Today is a special day. The Frollos have decided to treat their children to a day at the country fair. There will be rides, food, and games. As soon as the boys are dressed the hurry downstairs.

”We’re ready!” They both say in unison.,
”Didn’t you boys forget something?” Says Ethelinda putting her hands on her hips.
”Ummm..Claude what did we forget?” Says Clement turning to his brother.
”I don’t kno-𝒐𝒉.” Says Claude with realisation in his voice. “We forgot to feed Jet.”
”Oh yeah.” Said Clement.
”Now before we leave, I’m sure Jet would appreciate having breakfast.” Said their mother.

Both Claude and Clement race around grabbing arm fills of hay and buckets of water. They hurry toward the barn plops the hay and water into Jet’s trough and pat him goodbye. When they are finish they meet their parents at the front of the cottage and once again in unison say, “𝑵𝒐𝒘 we’re ready!”

When they arrive at the fair Clemente blue eyes are wide with awe.

“This is so cool! Where do we begin?!”
”Let’s ride 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕!‟ Claude points at a fair ride with a bunch of swings hanging from it.

“Yeah let’s go!” As they take off in a run the heat their mother’s voice.
”Boys!” Both of them halt and look back over their shoulders. “Restez ensemble et soyez prudent!” She calls to them in French.

“Okay maman!” They call back.
”And Claude, look out for your younger brother!”
”Yes mother! I will!”

Ethelinda turns to her husband with an amused look on her face.
”Those boys have so much energy!”
”You can say that again.” Replies Burlio.

When Claude and Clement reach the swings ride, both of them find a swing close to each other.

“This is going to be so fun!” Says Clement craning his head around to look at his brother.
“Just hold on tight okay?”

“Don’t worry Claude, I’ll be fine.”

Soon the ride makes a jolt and behind to spins, gradually picking up speed. After two full rotations, the riders are hoisted several feet up into the hair and the ride picks up speed even still.

”Wooohoooo!” Claude can hear his brother shouting with his arms outstretched. His light brown hair flys back in the wind. “I’m flying! Weeee!” Claude laughs out loud and joins in his brother’s shrieks of fun.

Once the ride comes to an end and lovers back to the ground. Both boys get un buckle their safety belts and hop out of the swing. They are a bit wobbly on their feet due to the constant spinning. Clement proceeds to fall over but his brother quickly catches him before he hits the ground. They both laugh as the regain their balance.

“What should we ride next?” Ask Clement. Claude looks around and sees a white wooden rollercoaster. The sign above it reads. 𝑾𝒊𝒏𝒅-𝒓𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒓

”What about that one?” He says pointing.
A flash of uncertainty appears on Clemente face but quickly says. “Let’s do it.”

As they stand in line waiting their turn, they watch the rollercoaster swish by as riders before them enjoy the ride. With each passing train cart a whoosh of air ruffles their hair.

”This looks so cool! We have to sit right up front, okay Clement.” Again, another flash of uncertainty crosses Clemente’s face but he nods his head resolutely.

Finally it is there turn to board the ride. Claude takes Clement’s hand and leads him to the front cart. Once everyone is seated the ride conductor goes around to double check everyone’s seat belts. As the Frollo brothers wait for everyone to get checked, Claude notices that Clement isn’t as excited as he was when the ride the swings.

”Clement?” Clement looks at his brother. “If you don’t want to ride, we don’t have to. I won’t be mad.”
”No, I want to ride it. I’m just a 𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆 bit nervously.” He says trying to cover the fact that he is more than a “little” bit scared.
”Well, don’t worry, I will be right here with you. I’ll keep you safe.” Clement looks over at his brother with a smile.

Not long after the rollercoaster starts and begins to move forward. It turns around a bend and begins to crank up the incline. Clement reaches over and grabs his brother’s arm, heart pounding. As the train comes to the top of the hill, it pauses a minute then release and at a breath taking speed, plunges down the drop. Clement grabs his brother’s arm even harder and squeezes his eyes shut. He hears Claude’s screeches of mock terror mixed with fun and he decides to opens his eyes.

Claude glances at him with a big grin on his face. Pretty soon Clement’s thrill over takes his fear and he laughs and screams the whole rest of the ride. Finally, the rollercoaster pulls back into the dock and all the passengers are let out.

”Okay I can’t believe I was even sacred! That was awesome!” Cries Clement.
”Toldya it would be. Let’s go find mama pin and papa. I’m getting hungry.

The brothers quickly scan the crowd searching for their parents. Not long they spot them look8ng at a rug at one of the shops.

”My you boys look like you’ve certainly been having fun.” Said their father, looking at their wind blown hair.

”Yes papa! We rode the swings and then we went in their 𝑩𝑰𝑮 rollercoaster and I was only a little scared but then it was fun because Claude made sure I was safe.” Claude looks away shy.

“Well good, for you boys. Are you hungry yet?”
”YES!” They cry in unison.
”Alright, what would you like?”

The boys look around as different scents of delicious foods fill their nostrils.
”Can I get cotton candy?” Says Clement
”I like popcorn…oh and..the dough looks good…and..
“CANDY APPLES!” Clement and Claude shout in unison. Burlio laughs.
”Tell you what, how about you boys share a fried dough and a candy apple?”
”Okay!” They both say.

Burlio walks over to the food stand and picks up both fried dough and a bright red candy apple shimmering in the sun light. He divides them in two pieces and hands the to his sons. As they eat their faces light up as they taste the savoury of the dough and the sweet of the apple.

”So good!” Mumbles Clement with a mouth full of dough.
”Mmmhmm.” Claude agrees also with his mouth full.

When they’re done Claude notices a bunch of other kids playing games.
”Papa? Can we have some coins to play games?”

”Sure, but use them sparingly. And remember if you lose don’t get to down on yourself. The thing that matters is that you had fun and tried your best.” He pulls out a couple of gold coins and hands them to his eldest son. “Now America sure there aren’t any holes in your pockets.” Claude checks all of his pockets then checks his brothers too, who laughs at the patting of his hands.

“Nope! No holes.”
”Alright off you two go.”
”Thanks papa!” Says Claude. Once again they are running off to have some fun.

“Which one do you want to play first?” Asked Claude.
”Mmm I always wanted to shoot an arrow. Let’s do that one!” Says Clement excitedly.
”Okay.”

When they walk over to the game booth, the man automatically begins his spiel.
“Test your aim! It’s not a pain! Win the game! Whataya say! You two up for the challenge?”
”You bet I am!” Says Clement determined.

”Alright, all you have to do is hit all three of the paper birds as they go by. Think you can do that?” Clement nods. The man hands him a bow and arrow. He takes it and looks back at his brother.
“You can do it Clement.” He encouraged.

The paper birds begin to fly by and Clement aims one eye closed. He releases one arrow and to his surprise it lands. “Alright!” Says Claude pumping one fist in the air. Clement repeats what he did the first time and once again hits his mark with a satisfying “thonk.” He loads his last arrow and shoots, but to his dismay he misses. His heart sank.

”It’s alright, Clement.” Says Claude putting a sympathetic hand on his shoulder. Two out of three is pretty good!”
”Yeah, but I was so close.” He says disappointed.

”Remember what papa said? It doesn’t matter if we win or loose as long as we have fun. And did you have fun?” He looks up at his brother with a small smile and nods.
”If only I had more practice. Do you think papa would get me a bow and arrow?”
”Umm…well I’m sure he could probably make one. Well that if manan doesn’t think it’s yoo 𝒅𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒔.” Said Claude mockingly. Clement laughs.

”Hey! Clement look over there!” Clement turns his head. “Can we do that game?” Over near one of the food booths is a cup swiping game. He shrugs.
”Sure okay.”

As they walk over there is a young girl about Claud’s age finishing up her turn, with a look of disappointment on her face.
”Good luck.” She says glumly. “It’s really hard.”
”Do you think you can do it Claude?”

“I don’t know…but I’m gonna try.”

Set up, on the table in front of the game instructor are three cups.

“Alright son, the game is simple. All you have to do is guess which cup the stone is under cup after I scramble them up. Got it?” Claude nods his head. “Okay, let’s begin.”

The man places the pebble on the table under one cups and briskly starts rearranging them. Cause carefully followed his movements, dark grey eyes never leaving his quick hands.

“Okay, which cups is the stone under?”

”That one.” Says. Claude quickly. Pointing at the cup in the middle. The man lifts up the cup revealing the stone underneath.
”Very good! Now the next one will be a bit harder.

Then man puts the stone back under a cup, and at astonishing speed rearranges the cups. When his hands come to a stop, he asked again where the pebble is. Claude ponders a minute and his watching brother holds his breath.

”That one. It’s under the one on the left.” Once again his guess is accurate as the game instructor lifts up the cup.

“Right again! But can you guess accurately this last time?” The game instructor sings with a glint in his eye. Claude gives him a level look. For the last time the instructor mixes up the cups with amazing fluidity. “Now son, choose carefully. Where is the stone?” Claude is silent for a moment.

”It’s not under any of the cups.” He says plainly. A look of surprise crosses the face of the man behind the booth. “You said that the game is simple. Pick which cup the stone is under. You never said that it was a guarantee that there would be a stone under the cup. So the answer is the stone is under neither of these cups.” Claude finished explaining. The man just gapes.

“Well, congratulations young man. You indeed are a very insightful.” A grin appears on Claude’s face. “Which prize will you choose?” He surveys all the prizes hanging on the wall until his gaze rest on a purple and black sling shot.

”I’ll take the sling shot.” The instructor walks over and takes the slingshot off the wall and hands it to Claude. Clement immediately runs over to congratulate his brother.

”Wow Claude that was amazing! You are so smart! I probably would have lost on the first try!” Claude chuckles. “Oh I don’t know about that.” Suddenly Clement comes to an abrupt halt and Claude bumps into him. “Clement are you alright?” His brother’s eyes are glued to a blue and orange bow and arrow hanging on the prize wall behind a dunk tank.

“Claude..how many coins do we have left?” Ask Clement in an urgent voice.
”Umm..six.”

”Do we have enough for this one?” Claude looks over at the sign, which reads 8 coins. “Sorry Clement we only have six coins..this one you need eight to play.” A well dressed boy most likely from a family that is well off, notices the disappointment on Clements face. He pulls lightly on his father’s sleeve.

”Father can we give that boy over there two of our coins. He hasn’t enough to play that game. His brother with him is 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 smart. I saw him playing the cup game and won. 𝑵𝒐𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒚 ever winds that game.” The boys father ponders for a minute then smiles and ruffles his son’s blonde hair.

“Of course, that is very kind of you Remey.” Excuse me son.” Says th boys gather walking you to the Frollo brothers. I hear you two are in need of two more coins to play the dunk tank game. I have two to spare if you would like. Clement’s eyes go wide.

”Yes please sir! Thank you so much!”

The man drops the two coins in Clemente hands and tells him good luck on his game. Clement immediately goes over the the dunk tank with Claude behind him. The first couple of contestants throw their balls trying to dunk the crooked tooth man sitting in the chair above the tank. Some balls miss, and some hit the target but unfortunately not with enough force. The man apologies and says try again next time, but doesn’t seem to care about the feelings of those who fail. Next up in line is Clement who has one thought in his head. To win that bow and arrow.

”Next!” Calls the man in the dunk tank chair. Clement takes the balls and steps up to the mark.”Well boyo, you look pretty small. Do you really think you can dunk me?” He says with a smirk on his face.

”I’m gonna try!” Says Clement face resolute.
”Well alright, let’s see what you got.”

Clement throws the first ball. He hears a thonk but the lever doesn’t budge. The throws again. Once again the ball makes contact with the lever…but the man doesn’t fall. 𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈'𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕. 𝑪𝒍𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒉𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒐𝒏. Claude thinks to himself.

“Come on Clement! You can do it!” Clement throws his last ball which again hits but doesn’t budge. Claude can see the defeat on his brother’s face. Tears well up I’m his eyes and he sulks over to Claude and cries.

“I know papa said that it doesn’t matter if you win or lose, but Claude I really wanted to win that now and arrow. I guess he was right, I’m just two weak.” He says tears still streaming down his face. Claude hugs his brother close to comfort him. He catches the man starting at them. A look of smug satisfaction on his face. Releasing his brother he marches up to the dunk tank and examines the target.

”Hey! What are you doing!” Get away from there kid!” Claude ignores him and slams on the target with all his might. Sure enough it doesn’t move. 𝑰 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒔𝒐.

This man is a fraud and a scammer. Says Claude yelling toward the crowd. “He’s cheated my little brother and I’m sure many other kids here! By locking the target in place so no matter how hard it’s hit it won’t budge!” At this point many people hear the commotion and come over to see what’s going on, include the boy’s parents.

Ethelinda’s blue eyes go wide. “Burlio look!” She says pointing. “It’s 𝑪𝒍𝒂𝒖𝒅𝒆!”

“This crook shouldn’t be allowed to stay at this fair.” Chides Claude.

Authorities now gather around the tank checking the target. Sure enough as Claude had pointed out, it is locked.

“The boy is right. It’s locked.” The crooked tooth man is seething upon where he sits.

“This is ridiculous! I didn’t know the thing was locked!” No one bought his story. One of the authoritative men switches the latch unlocking the target.

“There, now it should work properly. And as for you sir, you’ll need to come with me. If you refuse we will remove you by force.” He says in a stern tone.”

”Wait!” A man’s voice is heard through the crowd. It’s the blonde’s boy’s father who have Clement the two coins. Everyone turns to look at him. “My son Remy asked me to give this boy and his brother two coins so they could specifically play this game. Now that it works properly, I say we let him have his chance to play fair and square.” He looks at Clement. What do you say Clement would you like to try again?” He gives a small nod and takes on of the balls, but he hesitates.

“I can’t, Claude you do it.” He says in a small voice. Claude bends down a bit to look in his deep blue eyes.

“Clement, you can do it, I believe in you. All you have to do is throw it. I’ll be right here.” He says smiling affectionately at his younger brother. The crowd murmurs words of encouragement.

Clement once again raises himself to throw the ball and takes one last glance at his older brother, who gives him an encouraging nod. With all his might he hurled the ball with a high pitched grunt. It nails target smack in the middle dropping the pitiful man into the water. Immediately the crowd cheers. Claude runs over and picks his brother in the air.

”SEE YOU DID IT! I TOLD YOU YOU COULD DO IT!” Clement laughs at the top of his voice! Their parents make their way through the tight crowd and join in in the celebration. When the noise dies down one of game instructors from the other booths walks over.

”So of course winners get pick a prize what would you like son?” Clemente eyes shoot over too the wall with the bow and arrow. The man gets the hint. “Ah a fine choice. He walks over and takes it down then hands it to Clement who gratefully takes and hugs it close.”

”Thank you.” He says.
”Do guess you don’t have to ask papa to make you one anymore.” Says Claude grinning.

“You were going to ask me to make you one?” Ask Burlio raising his eyebrows.
”Well you see we played an archery game and Clement was great! He hit two out of three targets and they were 𝒎𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈!‟
“All I have to say is you two better be careful!” Ethelinda pipes up. Both boys look at each other and grin.

The crowd begins to disperse as the fair comes to an end and the sun begins to go down.

“Are you boys ready to go home?” Asked their father?

”Yes papa. We had loads of fun. Thank you for bringing us today.” Says Claude. Burlio ruffles both of his sons’ hair at the same time.
“You are very welcome.”

***

By time the Frollos get home it’s complete dark and the twinkling stars dot the sky.

“Hey Claude! I bet I can hit 3 pine ones off that tress easy!” Says Clement holding his new bow and arrow over his head. Claude laughs.

”Okay, how about I challenge you to a little competition with this! He holds up his slingshot he won at the fair. “First one to hit all their targets gets the stale piece of bread tomorrow for supper.” Said Claude.

”You’re on!” Replies Clement.

”My you boys don’t run out of energy do you!” Sighs their other. “Aren’t you in the least bit tired?”
”Nope!” They both say at once.
”Alright, seeing as you have no classes tomorrow, I will let you stay up an extra hour, but no more.”
”Okay maman.”

As the boy’s parents head inside they automatically go into competition mode. Claude was able to hit a few pine cones off the trees, but Clement deemed a natural with his bow and arrow. Hitting almost every pine cone he aimed at. The both fall back in the grass looking up at the star painted sky. Claude turns his head to look at his brother.

”You beat me fair and square. I get the stale bread tomorrow.” Claude smiles at his brother the stars glinting in his blue eyes.
”Thank you Claude.” Says Clement softly.
”For what?”
”Without you I wouldn’t have the bow and arrow.” Says Clement.
”But you threw the ball and hit the target. You won it for yourself.”

”𝒀𝒆𝒔 but I mean if you hadn’t exposed that filthy crook, he would still have been cheating people out of their money. You’re a 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒐 Claude.” Clement looks at his brother with total admiration.

”Well I don’t know abounding a hero, but you’re my little brother. It’s my job to look after you. And 𝒏𝒐 𝒐𝒏𝒆 messes my little brother but me.” He said giving a wink. Clement smiles and rolls onto his back.

“Claude, do you think one day I can go to space? I mean, it must be really big up there.”
”Mmm maybe. I think you have to wait till you’re older though.”
”Well when I am older I am going to go into space and bring back a star for mother and father.”

“I’d bet they would love that.” Said Claude encouragingly.
”And Claude?”
”Mm?” He says looking at his brother again.

“I’m going to bring you the 𝒃𝒊𝒈𝒈𝒆𝒔𝒕 star in the universe, if I can find it. No, 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 I find it. Because hero’s deserve big things.” Claude looks at his little brother fondly as he watches the amazement, almost seeing the wishes come true in his mind. They sit there in comfortable silence, gazing up at the sky. Pretty soon the both of them fall asleep under the stars, until their parents come outside and carry them off to bed.